July 3, 2020

THE PALM AIRE WOMEN’S CLUB CONTINUES TO THRIVE.


Despite the pandemic, this past year proved to be successful and remarkable for the PAWC. Former vice president, Carmen McAllister, must have anticipated the new reality.


Carmen launched the season with Virtual Reality presentations that introduced members to this exciting technology. Morgan Woolverton, an expert in the virtual reality field, demonstrated how virtual reality affects us and how to utilize it. In January, Jack Winberg, an accomplished photographer and expert in digital imagery, took us on a virtual journey to the ancient city of Angkor Wat, Cambodia. He gave an insider’s tour of the world’s largest pre-industrial city very few can visit. In retrospect, he prepared us to take virtual world tours safely at home.


At the luncheons, entertainment was not neglected. In November, Sarasota dancer/choreographer Vanessa Russo treated the audience to a bravura presentation of dance vignettes from her favorite performances. One of the highlights was an electrifying dance from West Side Story.


The renowned Sarasota women’s choir, Belle Canto, entertained at the December luncheon. The ensemble charmed everyone with the unique sound that came from the blending of women’s voices. This choir lived up to its name- "beautiful singing".


The event of the season, the PAWC "Women with Passion" Fashion Show and Luncheon proved to be truly spectacular! More than 160 members and guests filled the room, all coming together to raise funds in support of scholarships and local charities.


Dillard’s’ Debbie Palmer described the latest fashions worn by the glamorous models: Vanessa Baugh, Stacy Cole, Nancy Curley, Melodie Dickerson, Carmen McAllister, Doris McCowen, Donna Moon and Olga Ovchiyan. Styles were highlighted with sparkling bling and the sound of chiming champagne glasses. It was a day where everyone channeled their inner Marilyn Monroe. Model Stacy Cole has agreed to chair the next PAWC Fashion show.


Additionally, Carmen and her husband opened their beautiful home for a spectacular Holly Jolly celebration and fundraiser.


Despite the cancellation of the final three luncheons, the club was able to fund six scholarships and offer grants to seven local charities. (The 2020 scholarship luncheon has been postponed to October to enable members to meet the scholarship recipients.) Since 1995, the Palm-Aire Women’s Club has provided almost $150,000 in scholarships to SCF students and $11,000 in scholarships to MTC students. Dr. Carol Darling, Chair of the Scholarship Committee, stated, "The PAWC has generously supported scholarships through dues, raffles at monthly meetings, fashion shows, game and card parties, and other fundraising activities. Our efforts financially assist both female and male students to continue their education".


Although the 2019/2020 season did not proceed as planned, our new Vice President, Mary Beth Rempp is busily planning for the 2020/2021 season. She is hoping for a return to normalcy, working on exciting and interesting programs. The new calendar with its exciting events will be released soon.


Remember, PAWC membership is open year-round and is not limited to Palm Aire Country Club members. For more information please see the PAWC website www.palm-airewomensclub.org or contact the new membership chair, Susan Pulver at susan.pulver@verizon.net. Please send your $40 membership check to PAWC / CO Susan Pulver, 5305 Creekside Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243. This check funds our scholarships and helps continue the 20-year PAWC tradition.


Please remember to check your emails for further notices about the PAWC and its activities, including our Mix and Mingles. The next mix and mingle is tentatively planned in October at the home of the President Of PAWC, Carolann Garafola. Further updates and announcements will come via Email Blasts.


But most importantly, we need all our members to keep safe and stay healthy. We are looking forward to seeing you in the near future. As always, your continued support will be essential.



The glamorous PAWC models

The glamorous PAWC models, Stacy Cole, Melodie Dickerson, Nancy Curley, Olga Ovchiyan, Vanessa Baugh, Doris McCowen, Donna Moon, Carmen McCallister and Katherine Pike, dominated the runway at the "Women with Passion" Fashion Show.


Stacy Cole will chair the next PAWC fashion show

Stacy Cole will chair the next PAWC fashion show.


Carmen and Peter McAllister

Carmen and Peter McAllister hosted the Holly Jolly at their lovely home.


Vanessa Russo danced

Vanessa Russo danced with her partner, Rastio Sida at the November luncheon.



Club Mailing Address
PO Box 21051
Bradenton, FL 34204