Morgan's Grove Park continues to draw in volunteers to the Shepherdstown Community Club and avid park users during the pandemic. Toni Milbourne

SHEPHERDSTOWN — Members of the Shepherdstown Community Club gathered last week for their annual meeting, which was projected live via Facebook for those who chose not to attend in person. Despite some technical difficulties, each club member received a summary of the meeting’s happenings.

Due to the minimal in-person turnout, the club was unable to hold a vote to welcome new members to the board; however, an email was sent to indicate that Natalie Greene would like to serve. Members were asked to respond to the email to be counted as a proxy vote.

Early in the meeting, members took the time to have a moment of silence for those who were lost in 2020. Among those mentioned were Dr. Alexander, Rick Pope, Hal Snyder and Mary Stanley. It was shared that Stanley’s husband, Bob, has indicated he wants to sell a portion of Mary’s “treasurers” and use the profits for the club. A significant number of books were donated from Stanley’s collection for this past October’s Legendary Book Sale.

Mike Austin, who headed up the fundraiser, gave a report on the success of the sale. Austin traveled throughout the county this year collecting books, and said some of those he visited were isolated by COVID-19.

“It was gratifying to know that their books were going to be reread instead of becoming trash,” he said.

Austin noted the working relationship between the SCC and Valley Storage, which donates space to hold books throughout the year. In addition to that business, many people helped made the sale a success, as there were more than 45 volunteers helping during the week-long set up, sale and clean up.

Other reports presented, included David Rosen sharing that the park now has a 10-year contract with EPIC Soccer. There is also a team of tree trimming volunteers who are attempting to seek out grants to help with ongoing maintenance of the trees.

“The basic message from the treasurer is that we will end the year with a small operating deficit, which mostly occurred because of the huge maintenance projects we had to complete,” reported Steve Watntiz.

Karen Hacker-Kinnett volunteered to serve as treasurer of the club for the next year. She said she has developed new ways to generate funds, and has already helped the club apply for loans.

Many new faces have joined the club, according to membership coordinator Shannon Taylor. Taylor has used Facebook, the Shepherdstown Farmer’s Market and direct mailers to encourage new membership. Taylor three new members were signed up at the book sale.

In addition to some new members, new liaisons have been formed as well. Jenny Haynes secured three new wedding bookings through a group called “Marry Me.” The Rotary Club has assisted with several work projects at the park and the town and Mayor Jim Auxer have also helped with those projects.

One final order of business at the Nov. 11 meeting was to present a gift of appreciation to Don Davis for his years of service to the club.

“Don is always quick to answer the call for help,” said Wabnitz. “He shows up with a cheerful attitude and completes the task.”

Looking ahead, the SCC is currently considering converting the Back Alley Garden Tour and Tea into a Park Tour with picnic baskets this year; however, no definitive plans are set.