The clock in the corner of my laptop reads 3:32 AM so I can’t type too much tonight, but I wouldn’t feel right if I didn’t at least convey a few thoughts. That said, Thursday night Jennifer and I attended the Junior League of Columbia’s “End Of The Year Celebration” at The Columbia Convention Center. While I’ve attended this event for over a decade now, this year’s edition will be memorable for me. A many readers know, few years ago we constructed a ‘Pay It Forward’ program with the League. Well, Ginny Stout Hairston was the member who helped make this idea a reality. Tonight, we watched her term as president end. Our program with the League will continue with great enthusiasm, but I wanted to thank Ginny in front of everyone who may read this.
Danielle Payne won “The Kinsey Black Jones Award.” From what I hear she was a very deserving young active member, and I think Kinsey (and her mom in Manning..haha) would approve. My wife Jennifer and I proudly greeted her at the front of the stage, and hugged her as she was very emotional about the recognition. Thank you, Danielle Payne, and keep up the fantastic work!
I should take a minute to recognize my friends Pamela Adams and Monnie Murray, too. These two women accepted “The President’s Award” tonight. As their achievements over the year were read aloud, it was fun to watch their reactions. These two members took on a big task this year, along with Mandy Wren, and have been through a heartbreaking time personally together, as Pamela lost her mother suddenly only a few weeks ago. It was touching to watch their families and close friends walk in the room to congratulate Pamela and Monnie as they received their awards. It was also awesome and fitting for them to share such a happy moment together.
All you have to do is take a look at the pic above to say, “Well done, Junior League of Columbia!” While the dollar amount is obviously impressive, the impact of the women of the League is contagious, and compounded year after year. The Midlands is lucky to have such a strong Junior League organization in our community.
I look forward to working with my friend, and newly installed president, Kim Leighton. Some of the past presidents have left some big shoes to fill, including Ginny. That said, I’ve known Kim a long time and think she is a perfect fit to lead this stellar organization.
Thank you for having us, Junior League of Columbia!
Franklin Jones
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