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Message from the President
Dear Esteemed Members and WCCG Friends,
Happy New Year!
January marks a time of fresh beginnings and renewed purpose. It is an honor to serve alongside such dedicated and inspiring men and women of the Woman’s Club of Coconut Grove. Together, we look forward to another year of service, friendship, and positive impact in our community.
I would like to congratulate our new Chairs and Co-Chairs and sincerely thank those who have worked with me over the past two years—your commitment and leadership are truly appreciated.
This year, I’ve added monthly themes to our luncheon meetings, which will be shared on Facebook and Instagram so everyone can stay informed and engaged. I also encourage all new members to contact Jeanie Heller at 786-303-5337 or jean.marie.heller@gmail.com to volunteer for a luncheon. There is no better way to meet fellow members and experience the heart of our club than by helping at a lunch—and Jeanie is a wonderful hostess!
This month, our HTAP and Education Committees hosted a wine tasting at Happy Wine in the Grove. Mimi, the owner, is a special lady—and she liked us so much she even asked about joining! The event raised $1,903, with 36 guests and 3 volunteers. A big shout-out to Carol White, Andrea Zuker, and Marie Dasborough—you ROCK!
Next up is the Coconut Grove Theatre Festival Launch Party on January 28, 2026—I can’t wait! Be sure to buy your tickets or volunteer. And don’t miss our February luncheon, featuring speakers Iris Kolaya and Joanna Lombard.
Here’s to an exciting year ahead!
With heartfelt gratitude,
Illine Davila
President
Woman's Club of Coconut Grove
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2026 Calendar
January
Clarington Island Clean-up (Environment Committee)
Saturday, January 24th
Coconut Grove Sailing Club (8:30am)
Coconut Grove Book Club (Arts & Culture Committee)
Monday, January 26th
Coconut Grove Branch Library (1:30pm to 3pm)
Coconut Grove Theatre Festival Launch Party
Wednesday, January 28th
Clubhouse (6pm to 8pm)
Artist Day
Wednesday, January 28th
Clubhouse (10am to 2pm)
February
Artist Day
Wednesday, February 4th
Clubhouse (10am to 2pm)
Community Life Committee Meeting
Thursday, February 5th
Clubhouse (10am)
Membership Meeting
Thursday, February 5th
Clubhouse (10am)
Environment Committee Meeting
Monday, February 9th
Clubhouse (1pm)
Artist Day
Wednesday, February 11th
Clubhouse (10am to 2pm)
Coconut Grove Arts Festival
Saturday, February 14th to Monday, February 16th
WCCG Club Booth
Artist Day
Wednesday, February 18th
Clubhouse (10am to 2pm)
Arts & Culture Committee Meeting
Wednesday, February 18th
Clubhouse (10:30 am)
Board of Directors Meeting
Thursday, February 19th
Clubhouse (10am)
Artist Day
Wednesday, February 25th
Clubhouse (10am to 2pm)
BINGO
Thursday, February 26th
Clubhouse (6:30pm)
135th WCCG Anniversary Gala
Saturday, February 28th
Clubhouse (6pm to 11pm)
Save the Date
Young Artists' Gallery (YAG) - Sunday, March 15th
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Membership Meeting - February 5th
The Woman’s Club & Walter de Garmo
Join us on February 5th for an engaging presentation exploring the shared legacy of the Woman’s Club of Coconut Grove and renowned architect Walter de Garmo, and how their influence helped shape the unique culture and architecture of Coconut Grove that endures today.
Our speakers, Iris Guzman Kolaya, a Miami-based writer and public historian, and Joanna Lombard, architect and Professor at the University of Miami School of Architecture, will offer historical and architectural perspectives that connect the Club’s past to the Grove’s present.
This thoughtful program is a must for anyone interested in Coconut Grove’s history, architecture, and civic legacy. We hope you’ll join us.
Presenters
Iris Kolaya and Joanna Lombard
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10:30 AM - Networking
11 AM - Business Meeting
12 Noon - Speakers Presentation
12:30 PM - Lunch
Bring a friend or two.
RSVP deadline February 3rd
| | 135th Anniversary Gala - A Legacy in Action | | |
This event promises to be a magical evening of music, tributes, and celebration, with some wonderful silent auction items already confirmed – including hotel stays and unique experiences – music is by The French Horn Collective.
Although our gala is almost sold out, Sponsor tickets are still available and veranda seating. If you’re not able to attend, we hope you will support our fundraising efforts for the McFarlane Fund by making a donation, placing (or selling) a congratulatory or business ad in our commemorative program book, or contributing (or obtaining) a silent auction item.
For information on tickets please contact Marlene at msecgf@gmail.com.
For customized sponsor letters, business outreach, or auction prize solicitations, contact Jennifer at jennifergrovite@gmail.com.
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Since 2001, the Young Artists’ Gallery (YAG) has been a joint program between the Woman's Club of Coconut Grove and the Miami-Dade County Public School System that provides opportunities for talented high school art students to be involved in an art gallery setting where they can sell their work, interact with an audience of art patrons, win accolades and earn funds for college tuition. A number of the students who participate are from environments where support for the arts is not available.
Great teachers were one of the reasons I became an artist.
Creative life started at home, but the real dedication began in high school with the encouragement of a very talented art teacher.
That's part of why I am so passionate about this scholarship program I am helping to produce again this year.
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2026 Young Artists' Gallery
Awards Ceremony
March 15, 2026
2:30 pm sharp
donations of ANY size
help to make the Awards Ceremony party extra special
for the kids, their teachers and their families
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Honoring a Legacy: Mary S. Pierce
As the Woman’s Club of Coconut Grove welcomes its 2026–2028 Board of Directors, we pause to honor the lasting legacy of Mary S. Pierce, who served as Club President, for four terms and dedicated 11 years to our leadership, beginning in 1932 when she served as President of the Junior Members of the then Housekeeper's Club*.
Mary was first elected President in 1962 of the then-named Housekeeper’s Club*, serving four terms between 1962 and 1980, including during the Club’s 80th Anniversary. Her influence and dedication helped shape the Club we know today and is further honored through a $5,000 Perpetual Memorial Scholarship, established in her memory through the Dade County Federation of Women’s Clubs.
Mary’s contributions to this Club and its mission continues to inspire members today and will for years to come.
* The Housekeeper’s Club became The Woman’s Club of Coconut Grove in 1957.
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Wine Tasting Fundraiser:
A Full House for a Meaningful Cause
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The HTAP Wine Tasting Fundraiser, held on January 15th at Happy Wine in Coconut Grove, was a huge success, welcoming a full house of 36 attendees for an evening of fine wine, tapas, and community spirit.
Thanks to the generosity of those who attended, the event raised $1,903, with proceeds benefiting the Human Trafficking Assistance Program (HTAP) and Education Committee. Funds raised will support scholarships for future college students pursuing education majors and the transformation of the interview room at the Human Trafficking Processing Center into a safe, welcoming space—providing comfort and dignity to survivors at a critical moment in their recovery.
We extend a heartfelt thank-you to Mimi, owner of Happy Wine, whose support made this evening possible. We are also delighted to share that Mimi is now a prospective member of the Woman’s Club of Coconut Grove. Her generosity and community spirit are definitely traits that we look for in new members.
The Woman’s Club is deeply grateful to our WCCG event organizers Carol White, Andrea Zuker and Marie Dashborough and everyone who attended and helped make this meaningful evening such a success.
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Clarington Island Cleanup this Saturday
Looking for something fun and meaningful to do this weekend? Join volunteers from the Woman’s Club of Coconut Grove’s Environment Committee, the Coconut Grove Sailing Club and the community for the Clarington Island Cleanup at the Coconut Grove Sailing Club on Saturday, January 24th, starting at 8:30 am. For decades, volunteers have removed tons of debris from this spoil island, helping protect the Biscayne Bay ecosystem that is vital to our sailing community and cherished by all Miami residents. RSVP is required to participate and receive full event details—all are welcome!
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Growing Our Environmental Impact Together
The Plastic-Free Initiative (PFI) was formed by the Woman’s Club of Coconut Grove Environment Committee to help reduce plastic pollution by encouraging the elimination of single-use plastics. While PFI operates as a stand-alone organization, the Environment Committee proudly continues to support its mission as part of our ongoing environmental efforts.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Environment Committee is preparing to expand its initiatives and create even more opportunities for member involvement.
Visit our PFI website to learn more, get involved, and help us build a cleaner, healthier future. To get involved, please contact Kat Sitton at wccgenvironmentcommittee@gmail.com.
We extend our sincere thanks to Priscilla Rhew for her leadership in advancing the Environment Committee and are pleased to welcome Lynne Cameron as Co-Chair, alongside Kat Sitton who also Chair PFI, as the work continues.
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Our talented group of “Strummers” come together to learn and play the ukulele surprising us with delightful performances when we least expect it.
If you are interested in joining our Strummers, contact Pheobe at phoebew@aol.com and she will happily get you strumming.
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Volunteer & Cheer at the Miami Marathon!
Come out and join us and the Coconut Grove Sailing Club volunteers to cheer on marathon runners on Sunday, January 25th, for the Life Time Miami Marathon & Half Marathon. Runners pass through Coconut Grove across from the Woman's Club of Coconut Grove's Clubhouse in front of the sailing club, at the bottom of McFarlane Road, a key spot where runners especially need encouragement to get through the final leg of the race.
Cheering the runners on last year was incredibly fun, energizing, and rewarding, and it’s a great way to support both the athletes and our community. Don't miss the opportunity to see Coconut Grove come alive with amazing athletes supported by cheering fans, live music, dancers and so much more.
Volunteers are needed to hold signs, hand out treats, give ice baths, give high fives, peel tangerines etc. Our WCCG banner will be displayed, proudly showing our Club’s support of this iconic community event.
For details on how to give your support, please contact Janice Pruitt at janicepruett@gmail.com.
Come out, have fun, and help make a difference—
one cheer at a time!
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Volunteers Needed at WCCG Monthly Meetings
Dear Members,
Our monthly luncheon meetings are a highlight of our club, and we need your help to make them run smoothly. We’re asking for a two-hour time commitment—only when it fits your schedule—to assist with simple setup and cleanup tasks such as setting tables, helping with the buffet, and restoring the room afterward. No dish washing is required.
If you’re willing to help, please email or text Jeanie Heller to be added to the volunteer schedule.
Thank you for your support and for being such a vital part of our club. We appreciate you!
Warm regards,
Jeanie Heller
Hospitality Chairperson
Jean.Marie.Heller@gmail.com
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Another BINGO Success!
Our December Holiday BINGO was a full house and a record-breaking success—raising $3,257 in the holiday spirit! Thank you to everyone who helped make the evening so special.
Save the date, BINGO night is just over a month away on February 26th, and we need your support to make it another great event. Please consider donating prizes, finger foods, desserts, appetizers, or contributing toward pizza.
To donate, email Greg Breidenbach at gregb1765@hotmail.com. Your support helps ensure a fun and memorable night for all!
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Coconut Grove Book Club: Share and Connect
The Coconut Grove Branch of the Miami-Dade Public Library System, in collaboration with the Woman's Club of Coconut Grove (WCCG) Arts and Culture Committee, invites you to take part in its monthly Book Club on Monday, January 26th.
Open to adults aged 19 and over, the Book Club meets from 1:30 to 3:00 pm at the Coconut Grove Branch Library.
Upcoming reading - Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson
To register or learn more, contact the Coconut Grove Branch Library at 305-442-8695 or visit mdpls.org/events. The library is located at 2875 McFarlane Road in Coconut Grove next to the WCCG Clubhouse.
The Book Club unites our community through engaging literary conversations and a love of reading.
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Artists' Days are Back in Swing
Artists’ Day on Wednesdays from 10am to 2pm at the WCCG Clubhouse is up and running and open to members and member prospects.
All talent levels are welcome. Bring your lunch, medium of choice and a $10 donation (paid upon arrival).
Need more information?
Contact Sally Willits at sallygrove22@gmail.com or 786-512-6336 and she will fill you in on the details. Don't miss this opportunity for some artsy fun!
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Sandy Arostegui
A full-time travel advisor, she loves helping others explore the world and enjoys traveling herself, along with reading, entertaining, cooking, shopping, and cruising.
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Dr. Diane Baker
Diane earned her doctorate from the University of Miami and spent 20 years as a professor of child psychology, followed by 20 years in private practice.
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Anne Bevis Detweiler
Anne holds a BA in Economics and Art History from Smith College, studied Politics and Economics at Oxford, and earned an International MBA from Columbia. She worked in government advisory at Lazard Frères in Paris.
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Kim Brill
After 30 years as an insurance executive, Kim built a career grounded in leadership, integrity, and compassion. With more time to give back, she is passionate about supporting children in foster care, women and children and volunteers for Genesis Hopeful Haven and local food banks.
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Deborah Dalal
Deborah works in real estate investments and has reinvented herself in just a few years, first by inventing and commercializing a product and now by successfully flipping homes. Deborah is looking for opportunities to give back to the community.
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Linda Greenberg
Linda's career began as a landscape architect before transitioning to owning and
operating a trucking company, from which she recently retired from. In addition, Linda renovated
homes throughout Brookline and Boston.
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Nancy Krauss
Nancy is a semi-retired learning and leadership development practitioner with a career as an academic advisor at Miami Dade College. Born in New York and educated in Philadelphia and Miami, she enjoys staying active through tai chi, biking, kayaking, hiking, swimming, and camping.
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Simona Noaghiul-Yland
A Romanian who moved to the US for her medical residency where she married and had two daughters. Simona moved from NY to Miami where she has a private psychotherapy practice. Simona likes to volunteer and meet new people.
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Kate Patterson
A Williams College graduate with a degree in History, Kate has lived in New York, Chicago, Cleveland, and Boston, but Coconut Grove. has always been home. In 2017, she and her husband Steve purchased two historic Grove cottages and, after several years of restoration, recently returned full-time.
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Tola Porter, PhD
Tola Porter, Ph.D., is the Assistant Director for Learning, Engagement, and Technology at the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami. She holds a Ph.D. in art history from Washington University in St. Louis and master’s degrees from NYU and Columbia University.
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Florencia Schuering
Florencia, originally from the Netherlands, is a new Miami resident and a mother of two with a background in finance and economics. She is eager to contribute to related initiatives and is passionate about art and culture.
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All Call: Bring Magazines to February's Member Meeting
We are still collecting new toys (infant to age 18), art supplies, magazines and monetary donations for Radio Lollipop (checks payable to Radio Lollipop).
Magazines are a big hit so we are asking members to gather a few magazines and drop them off at February's member meeting. Other donations will be collected too.
Thank you! All donations are greatly appreciated.
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Seniors Holiday Party Celebration
The Woman’s Club of Coconut Grove was pleased to host its annual Seniors Holiday Party on Wednesday, December 10th, welcoming 75 seniors, a record number of guests, for a festive afternoon of community and holiday cheer.
The event was made possible by the dedication of our amazing volunteers, who baked cookies, assisted with set-up, supported guests throughout the event, and helped with break-down. Their efforts ensured a smooth and joyful celebration for all in attendance.
The Woman’s Club is grateful to everyone who contributed their time and energy to making this holiday tradition meaningful for our senior neighbors.
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Woman's Club of Coconut Grove
Welcome 2026 Officers
We are excited to welcome our newly installed Board of Directors! The Woman’s Club is honored to be led by volunteer members who bring dedicated leadership, energy, and a strong commitment to our mission. Their shared vision will set the stage for an exciting year ahead. Congratulations!
President Illine Davila
1st Vice President Greg Breidenbach
2nd Vice President Lara Gallardo
Corresponding Secretary Lynne Cameron
Recording Secretary Sonya de Long
Treasurer Fan Zhang
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And Now We Strut...
Great Job Members for Showing Your Community Spirit at the King Mango Strut Parade
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Juniorettes Shine at King Mango Strut Parade
This month, the Juniorettes Club of Coconut Grove proudly joined forces with the Coconut Grove Woman’s Club, Unchained Mothering, and White Tiger and Dragon Martial Arts for the annual King Mango Strut Parade. Guided by leaders from each organization—who serve as advisors and mentors to the Juniorettes—our members enjoyed a day filled with music, creativity, and community spirit.
The parade was a wonderful celebration of Coconut Grove’s unique traditions, and it provided a meaningful opportunity for our group to connect with friends and supporters along the route. We had an incredible time and are grateful for the continued support and encouragement from our partner organizations.
The Juniorettes’ next meeting will be February 22nd. Contact Jessica at jessdevreeze@gmail.com at we hope to see you there!
Stephanie Gregg
Vice President, Juniorettes of the Coconut Grove Women’s Club
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Policy Reminder & New Member Sponsors
As we continue to grow and welcome new members, we’d like to take a moment to highlight some important policy reminders to ensure everything runs smoothly for everyone.
· Guest Lunch Policy: Each non-member is welcome to attend up to two lunches per year as a guest. Please keep this in mind when inviting friends and prospective members.
· New Member Sponsors: Sponsors, we appreciate your support in making the new member application process as smooth as possible.
Please keep Lara Gallardo, Second Vice President, informed about the new members you are sponsoring by emailing her at lara@onemindlab.com and kindly forward all necessary paperwork including sponsor letters to her. Your help ensures an efficient and seamless process—thank you for your cooperation!
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Reminder: Club Parking is Reserved
Parking at our Clubhouse is limited - spaces are reserved for the elderly, disabled, or those involved with the day’s program. If you want to reserve a parking space, please contact Illine Davila at illineadavila@gmail.com.
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