The October meeting of Centralia Business and Professional Women was held on October 11 at First United Presbyterian Church at 6:00 p.m. Members had the unique opportunity to experience cuisine offered by Taco Tuesday Everyday Food Truck and then enjoyed desserts prepared by Stephanie House and Tammy Resch. President Stephanie House welcomed members and guest Shelly Day. She then began the meeting with the reciting of the Collect and Pledge of Allegiance.
Education Chair Becca Deomes introduced the program for the evening. Misty Pelaez, Business Administrator for Advanced Surgical Technology, also know as AST, greeted the members on behalf of Chief Operating Officer Abbey Gettinger, NP, who was unable to attend. Before starting her very informative presentation, each member was given an AST Swag bag containing multiple goodies that represented AST and breast cancer awareness month. Misty, who has over 34 years in medical administration, stated she is honored to work with Dr. Liyanage and also with Abbey, who has worked in the healthcare industry for the last 17 years. AST has now developed into a multi-specialty group including general, vascular, breast care and surgery, including mammography and genetic testing, primary care, mental health and aesthetics. The program ended with a question-and-answer segment by Misty and Colt Sanders, RN.
Dawn Cleary presented the treasurer’s report along with the presentation of bills. Finance Chair Nancy James collected funds from members wishing to make brags and also sold 50/50 tickets. Winner was Shelly Day. Member directories were available for distribution. Membership Chair Karen Walsh had the privilege of installing Shelly Day as a new member. Shelly is the mother of Becca Deomes and they join the mother/daughter group of BPW members.
President Stephanie House was presented a City of Centralia Proclamation declaring October 15-October 22 as BPW week. Many members also attended the presentation. She then invited members to attend the Centralia Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours co-hosted by Heritage Woods and Centralia BPW, held at Heritage Woods on October 18 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. with the announcement of the Woman of the Year and Boss of the Year at 5:30 p.m. All members and their guests were encouraged to wear costumes or masks and enjoy a fun evening of bingo and fine dining at the Centralia American Legion on October 19.
Monetary donations will be accepted by the Community Outreach committee to purchase Christmas gifts for the BCMW Adopt a Family program.
For more information about BPW, please contact President Stephanie House (618-533-5758) or membership chair Karen Walsh 618-967-3919) or any other BPW member.
