Sparta Woman's Club hailed as ‘Comeback Club'

SPARTA-The Sparta Woman's Club was showcased at the New Jersey State Federation of Women's Clubs on May 4 for their stunning return to robust participation in Sparta community endeavors and volunteerism in the Sussex County area. In a speech delivered by SWC President, Marjorie Strohsahl, at the special convention session, the two-year battle to survive as a club leading to the healthy engine of volunteerism it is today was described as spearheaded by past President Patricia Giantonio and her then Vice President Debbie Welch and Treasurer Debi Fabian. Caught up in the infectious enthusiasm of these leaders, many women gave their time and talent to grow the club to its present membership of nearly 150. The federation does not bestow the title of "Comeback Club" injudiciously or often. However, the Sparta Woman's Club set a new standard of performance for the whole state when it captured 10 of a possible 13 "all around best work" first place awards for Federation-sanctioned Club Departments and Special Interest Groups at the District level. Seven of these 10 awards continued on to state convention first place honors, again setting a new standard of performance. This award-winning club donated 51,618 hours and $74,365 to the community in 2003 and completed 382 projects even as it was accruing new and enthusiastic members. Coming back was a reality by the end of the year. The General Federation of Women's Clubs includes Sparta Woman's Club as a member of the l0th District of the New Jersey State Federation of Women's Clubs. It is open to all women of Sparta who have an interest in civic-minded and community-centered activities. For information about becoming a member, call Susan Andrews, First Vice President and Membership Chair at 973- 726-0686.