McKeesport Branch S-077 held their December Meeting/Christmas Party on December 2, 2018 at Antonelli’s Event Center in Irwin, PA. Our guests were greeted at the entrance by branch officers with home office giveaways and tickets for numerous prizes. Appetizers were placed on each table for the guests to enjoy during the meeting.
Branch President Jerry Holmes opened the meeting and Vice President Mary Jo Matta read the opening prayer, followed by the pledge of allegiance. President Holmes introduced the branch officers, as follows: President, Jerry Holmes; Vice President, Mary Jo Matta; Treasurer, Virginia Holmes; Financial Secretary, Marian Greenland; Recording Secretary/Junior Secretary Judy Fedor; Auditor, Mary Ann O’Neil, and Auditor Kathleen Cicak.
Roll was called and all officers were in attendance. Secretary Fedor read the November minutes which were approved. Treasurer Virginia Holmes gave the financial report, which was also approved.
President Holmes announced that in accordance with the branch manual, the audit will be conducted in January, 2019.
President Holmes reported on new members for the year and announced the 2018 scholarship winners from our branch, Lauren Hartner and Josh Spyra, who were celebrated at a scholarship dinner in July. We were happy to have Lauren in attendance at the party! He announced the FCSLA’s new scholarship category, for an accredited technical or trade school. He reminded everyone that Kathleen Cicak is the Chair of our Convalescent Committee. She should be notified of any member who is hospitalized or in a nursing home.
Treasurer Virginia Holmes, who also serves as National Trustee, updated the members on Home Office business. She reported on annuity percentages and matching funds requirements. The Home Office promotes and supports matching funds. She explained the Walk for Kane that our branch participates in annually and reminded members that they can recommend fundraisers for the branch to participate in. Treasurer Virginia Holmes, who is now the Vice President of the Pennsylvania Fraternal Conference, also discussed the Pittsburgh Agreement and its history.
The memorial service was conducted with President Holmes reading the names of each member of S-077 who passed away in 2018. As each name was read, Carol Yurechko sounded the gong and a family member of the deceased lit a candle in his or her honor.
President Holmes reinforced the importance of attending District meetings, which are held 3 times during the year. All members are encouraged to attend, as valuable information is exchanged.
President Jerry Holmes expressed our appreciation to International Gypsy, George Batyi, a Branch S-077 favorite, for the wonderful music, and to Antonelli’s and the wait staff for the beautiful decorations and great service. The meeting was adjourned and closed with a prayer.
A delicious dinner was served. Tickets were drawn and numerous prizes were given as our guests continued to enjoy the music.
Visit the photo gallery to view pictures from the event.
