The Greenbrier County Community Educational Outreach Service held their Annual Achievement Day on May 19 at the grounds of The State Fair of West Virginia. Carol Sue Miller led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance, and Mary Dameron presented the devotions for the meeting.There was also a moment of silence for club members who recently passed away; Janet Johnson, Virginia Hanna, and Colleen Walton.
Josh Peplowski, WVU Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent, presented a program on “Beautify with Bulbs.” Members learned about the different kinds of plant bulbs, when to best plant their bulbs, how to care for their bulbs and flowers, and had their gardening and insect questions answered.
Greenbrier County submitted 16,500 volunteer hours to the state CEOS program. Volunteering is one aspect of the CEOS program. Members perform many acts of service to their community to raise funds for local organizations, supporting local food banks, and helping their neighbors whenever possible.
The following clubs were recognized for their volunteer hours: Tri-City CEOS (1,000 hours); Tranquil Trail CEOS (1,000 hours); Fort Springs CEOS (1,500 hours); Rupert CEOS (2,000 hours); Renick Northern Lights CEOS (2,500 hours); Williamsburg CEOS (2,500 hours); and Organ Cave CEOS (5,000 hours).
Three CEOS members were recognized for being 50-year members. Members with 50 years of membership not only receive a pin and certificate in recognition of their achievement, but also become Honorary Members who are not required to pay state dues. This year’s new 50-year members were Cassanda Perkins (Williamsburg CEOS), Janet Johnson (Organ Cave CEOS), and Mary Ellen Raines (Tri-City CEOS).
Patty Gray (Progressive CEOS) was awarded a certificate for submitting the winning entry in the Greenbrier County CEOS Short Story Contest. Patty’s story, “Mrs. Cashew’s Revenge” also won first place in the WVCEOS Short Story Contest.
CEOS Clubs have four main committees that shape club activities and service throughout the year.
The Family Issues Committees studied their family heritage by sharing their family genealogy, recipes, and stories. They donated school supplies and made childcare kits to help youth. They ensured their club members had their yearly wellness exams. They supported Greenbrier County 4-H Camp, the Children’s Home Society, WV Helping Hands, and local nursing homes. They incorporated WVCEOS Health Motivator activities into their meetings.
The Greenbrier County CEOS Family IssuesCommittee recognized Tri-City CEOS (tied for 3rd), Fort Spring CEOS (tied for 3rd), Williamsburg CEOS (2nd Place), and Organ Cave CEOS (1st Place) for their efforts.
The Continuing Education Committee focused on stories, history, and learning. They learned about Appalachian heritage, and shared skills that they learned from others. They learned about the history of the Mail Pouch Barns and WV State Parks. The Greenbrier County CEOS Continuing Education Committee recognized Renick Northern Lights CEOS (3rd), and Rupert CEOS (2nd).
