December 7, 2024 meeting minutes

President Don Assaid opened the meeting at 12:00 PM with Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and a prayer.  We were reminded of the club’s Facebook page, which is Virginia State Club in The Villages, and the website www.virginiastateclub.com.  The club’s 35th anniversary was celebrated this day!

Don reminded everyone that membership dues can be paid now. He directed them to see Val Bragg for payment ($10 per person). Don reminded everyone that if they know or meet someone from VA to invite them to our meetings. He had the visitors stand up and state their name and where they were from. They were Ann Wilson’s daughter, April Thompson from Richmond and Cindy Turner (Suffolk) guest of Matthew and Sharon Kirk.

On behalf of the Board, Don specifically thanked the volunteers and Board members who are vital in routinely assisting the Club to plan, set-up, carry-out and clean up at each meeting.

Don also shared that our February and March meetings will be held at Ezell Recreation Center and will start at 1:00 PM instead of 12:00 PM. Colony Cottage Recreation Center will be undergoing maintenance.

We were reminded to purchase 50/50 raffle tickets and consider donating to the Lady Lake Christian Food Pantry. If desired one can write a check to the Food Pantry or to VA State Club and designate it to the LLC Food Pantry.

Jenny Greene who is the liaison for Christian Care Center spoke about the center’s mission and programs and encouraged members to come to the next tour at the center on 12/13/24. She also spoke about the Christmas presents program for the children living with their families at the Christian Care Center that our donations are helping to fund. 

Debbie Chalkley presented the club with a delightful and detailed history of highlights of the club since its inception. Please see presentation in its entirety at end of these minutes. Thank you Debbie for your dedication to this club and developing this history to share with the members!

All the members in attendance enjoyed a delicious turkey luncheon catered by La Hacienda Catering.

Following the luncheon, Valerie Bragg introduced the new member and gave the treasurer’s report and the current balance prior to meeting is $6591.29.