 Member Spotlight
Janie Kissling - Thanks for the Memories!
(A letter of thanks from Janie)
As Comedian Bob Hope used to sing in his shows,"Thanks for the memories." I was so touched by Julie's letter honoring me in last month's Member Spotlight.And, I appreciate the kind words of many friends. I have loved being a part of the board of the women's club for nearly 30 years-in every job from Historian, Nominating Chairman for more times than I can count, Recording Secretary, Corresponding Secretary, Interest Group Chair, Sunshine Chair, Advisory Board, Raffle Ticket Chair, Evening Group Chair, Blooming Investor Chair, VPresident, and President. I wanted to really "bloom" and "stay connected" with all of you dynamic, compassionate, smart, funny women. I am so proud of our women's club. Where else can you find a neighborhood organization that has 200 members who can participate in so many diverse activities, plus hosts a charity fundraiser? Where else can you find a board that is committed to reaching out to new neighbors and helping hurting neighbors, providing fun activities for the children in the community, and organizing fun and informative programs for women to grow together? When I was President in 1998-99, it was my desire to reach out to all the women in the whole Chattahoochee area and invite them to "bloom where they are planted" by joining our club. I loved that theme, and many others did too. I reminded them that God had planted them in our Chattahoochee garden, whether for a short time as a wild flower, a member who gets involved for a while like an annual, or a longtime member, like a biennial. And I reminded everyone that the beautiful blooming board members need the fertilizer and sunshine of a helping, supportive membership. The next year, my theme was "Make the Connection, Get Plugged In" I had begun many new interest groups the year before, like play group, yoga, walking, international, investors, crafts, garden group, newcomer coffees, family activities, evening group, couples dance group, and others, so women could get involved in something they enjoyed while meeting and bonding with others. I really wanted new neighbors to feel included and connected. I reminded the older members that just like the cord on a perfectly working lamp sometimes cannot reach an outlet to get plugged in and therefore can't light, new members need help in connecting so they can get plugged in. They need an extension cord, a longtime member, who can connect them to activities and groups. So, as I leave the neighborhood, I want to encourage you members to continue to bloom and to continue to connect and plug in to all the activities that are available to you. Reach out to others. We are only as good as our connection with neighbors and our community. It is my prayer that you will continue to be a garden full of beautiful blooms for the whole community. I love you all and will be back frequently, I hope. Blessings. Janie KIssling
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