Wasco Woman's Club honors past, current presidents

On Feb. 8, the Wasco Woman's Club honored current and past presidents at its monthly meeting.

"It is a tradition that takes place every year in February and which I look forward to," said Jill Drescher, president from 2014 to 2016 and incoming president for 2022 to 2024. "We need to recognize their hard work, commitment, passion, and dedication to our mission. The world is a better place because of them. Even in these tough times, membership is growing strong because we have a lot to offer people, including camaraderie and a sense of community."

The club focuses on five major areas to improve the community - arts and culture, environment, education and libraries, health and wellness, and civic engagement and outreach.

Next year the Wasco Woman's Club will celebrate its 100th anniversary, and they are planning a big party for the community. They are currently focused on renovating their clubhouse in preparation for that.

"I enjoy the meetings, activities and getting together with the ladies," said member Josie Hernandez.

Hernandez loves the yearly project to help spread joy for local handicapped youth with a prom and Christmas party.

"There is dancing and fun plus all of the kids receive a gift," Hernandez said.

"For me, it is about the friendships I have developed over the years and how together we have made an impact in the community," said Easter Smothers, who has been a member for over 60 years.

The club sponsored the 2019 Wasco Rose Queen, Elisa Flores, and she was on hand to perform a lasso routine.

"It was an honor to represent the Wasco Woman's Club. I am grateful that they have supported me since then. They never forget about me, and I will never forget them," said Flores.

At the meeting, a vote was taken to approve a new project to provide hygiene products for local homeless women.

There are fundraising events throughout the year to cover the costs of their initiatives, with an upcoming pop-up sale and craft fair on April 9 at the clubhouse at 1601 7th St. To be a vendor, email Jaime Nixon at jaime100500@gmail.com.

Membership dues are $45 to join for a year and are collected in April. Call 661-303-3770 for more information or follow them on Facebook @WascoWC. The club meets every second Tuesday of the month.