Photo courtesy of Eagle Rock Ruritan Club
Traditionally in January, the Eagle Rock Ruritan Club finalizes the Community Service and Standing Committee objectives. These objectives are guides for community service projects throughout the year. This year, the club did not meet in January; therefore, the objectives committees met in February to set the yearly calendar of projects. Club members enjoyed a potluck meal provided by all the members.
One of the Community Service objectives is litter pickup in the Eagle Rock area sponsored by the Environment Committee, Barbara Holaday, chair. On a sunny day in February, six Ruritans met for the first of four litter pickup days for this year collecting 12 bags of litter.
In addition to the four scheduled days for litter pickup, Ruritan member Priscilla Vaughan has taken on the Last Lock of the Kanawha Canal for some extra sprucing up. Of course, she has some volunteer grandchildren helpers.
At the March meeting, members and guests enjoyed a meal catered by Twink’s Diner in Iron Gate. Special guest Reanna Hamm Wyatt gave an informative program on the services offered by the Alleghany Highlands Healthy Youth Coalition. Her enthusiastic presentation resonated with Ruritan members because it appealed to all ages.
Wyatt, a prevention specialist, offered many suggestions covering a wide variety of common concerns. For example, she reminded members about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, proper ways to dispose of unused/unwanted/expired medications, and safe storage of guns and meds. The Coalition works closely with the schools to encourage students to develop healthy habits.
Beth Leffel, club president, and Audrey Clark, chair of Community Engagement Committee, discussed progress on plans for the Second Annual Science Fest to be held at the Blue Ridge Vineyard on May 11.
On behalf of the Citizenship and Patriotism Committee, a good turnout was reported for the recent dual primary election.
Erin Slusser-Pease, chair of Public Services Committee, reported that the “Y” will be returning to the Eagle Rock Elementary School for the after-school program.
It was announced that going forward, the Galatia Community Potluck Meal will be at the Community Center at noon on the second Monday of each odd month beginning May 13.
The meeting closed with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
~ Eagle Rock Ruritan Club
