By Nance Ebert, Contributing Writer
Westborough – More than 60 women celebrated the Westborough Women’s Club’s 100th year on Dec. 13, at the Methodist Church. A buffet lunch was served along with a celebratory cake to mark the occasion. Alyson Greer Espinosa, the director of choral music at Westborough High School (WHS), led a joyous performance by the WHS Chamber Singers, a select choral ensemble.
State representatives from the Women’s Club of Massachusetts also attended the festivities and honored past presidents of the organization, including Janet Harvey, who has been a member for 67 years, Joan Ames, a member for 50 years, Jane Harvey, Joan Pavolis, Alberta Durfee, Priscilla Federici, Nancy Virzi, Carolyn Black and Judy Wilchynski.
“We are a club that gives back to the community,” current co-president Karen Bloom. “We host fundraising activities, run a rabies clinic, give scholarships to WHS seniors and more. We are a group of dedicated, hard working women who enjoy the camaraderie and volunteering.
“For me, being the current co-president is so easy because every single woman here says ‘yes’ to anything that is asked of her,” she added. “I leave every meeting with such a full heart knowing that these women care so much about our community and each other. It’s just beautiful.”
The Westborough Women’s Club was founded in 1916 but joined the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in 1917. Both Janet Harvey and Joan Ames were overwhelmed at the attention they each were receiving. They both wore a beautiful corsage to mark this milestone.
“It is such an honor and a privilege to be a member of this club,” Ames said. “I have met so many wonderful people that have become dear friends and I am getting a special pin today. Together, we have accomplished so much. Many of our friends are no longer here but I am always thinking of them.”
“I just love the Women’s Club. I love all of the people here and it means a lot to me to be a part of this,” added Harvey.
Together, co-presidents Bloom and Cory Fenton brainstorm with the other members in regards to upcoming projects, events and charity activities.
“For me, this group has been life-changing. I have jumped in with both feet and have met the most wonderful group of women. For me, this is the best way to be a part of an organization. Just looking around today, well, this is the crowning glory. I have never seen such a large turnout,” said Fenton.
Joan Ames’ husband, Bill, was the lone man attending the festivities and he was sitting proudly next to his wife. He explained that he was recently honored for his 50 years as a past master at the Morning Star Lodge. Joan was the only woman attending that event in support of her husband.
“I guess you could say that today is payback, but I am extremely proud of my wife and would not have missed this,” Bill Ames said.
For more information about the Westborough Women’s Club, call 508 366-0931.
