By Stephen Smoot
As couples started preening and planning for a lovely Saint Valentine’s Day weekend, a different kind of love brought together the Friends of the Library last Friday night.
Speaking of saints, every year this annual dinner celebrates three different aspects of the legacy of Saint Lawrence of Rome. St. Lawrence was condemned by Rome in part for hiding the archives and intellectual works of the early Roman Catholic Church from destruction.
The patron saint of books and libraries also earned the patronage of comedians. It was truthfully recorded that as Roman executioners (well known for creativity in their work) slowly roasted him on a metal grill, St. Lawrence quipped, “It is well done! Turn me over!” He therefore also became the patron saint of comedians, cooks, and chefs.
If three things permeate a Friends of the Library annual dinner, it is the love of books, a lot of hearty laughter, and wonderful food brought in for the famous potluck dinner.
Rhonda Nash, the president of the Friends organization, welcomed all as the festivities opened. She urged attendees to mingle and select a complimentary book. Already, four tables full of hors d’oeuvres, snack food, dinner options, and desserts were joined by fresh coffee, the famous Friends of the Library punch, and other drinks.
Nash invited Jay Puffenbarger to rise and lead the assemblage with the Pledge of Allegiance, which was appropriate as he served the cause of his nation and freedom in the Vietnam War. Tom Craig offered the blessing, praying, “Thank You for the dedicated hands and hearts.”
Nash identified some special guests, including Paula Waggy who served on the board of trustees. She explained that Charlie Burgoyne had a good reason for missing the dinner as it was his anniversary. Then she shared that “Mr. Tom Firor is with us.” As she described his many years serving on the board and as treasurer, he good naturedly piped up, “Too many!”
She also introduced Linda Hedrick, interim director, and Wendy Putz, veteran staff member, and then shared “to our current board members, I have to give a real word of thanks.” Later, Hedrick praised staff member Destiny Keplinger, who could not make the occasion, as the library’s artist. From the library windows to decorated gift bags for kids, Hedrick described her caring touch.
Of Putz, Hedrick said, “Wendy always does her thing and she does it very well!”
Introductions also covered board members and officers including Boyd Lucas, vice president, and Becky Puffenbarger, treasurer. Of course because her name was mispronounced as “Bucky” the first time mentioned, she was assigned the dubious moniker the remainder of the evening. Nash explained that Jayne Germaine had assumed the office of secretary with Craig currently engaged in other work.
Other board members include Darlene Bokelman, Hayley Craig, Madeline Hoover, and Mary Jane Santelli.
One of the important tasks to undertake in between the food and fun lay in the business meeting. All officers and board members were confirmed for another year of service. Nash also thanked “our buddy” Bruce Holderman for his professional work on the Friends’ newsletter.
The business meeting also highlighted the success of both the Friends and the library as a whole. They celebrated their first ever grant award of $1,000, establishing a near-impromptu poetry group after a highly successful celebration of World Poetry Day. Budget cuts also could not stop the popular History Alive! Program, featuring JoAnn Peterson as social worker Frances Perkins.
After business and victuals were concluded, Jennifer Taylor-Ide made an announcement concerning the highly anticipated performance of the Pendleton County Hot Mess.
She said, “Sometimes we’re hot! Sometimes we’re a mess!” Taylor-Ide then smiled and shared how they had to revamp the planned musical performance with one group member out sick. That didn’t prevent them from playing to their usual high standard or keep the gathering from enjoying the performance.
