Club serves as means of welcoming newcomers
Packing up one's belongings and moving to a new area can be stressful.
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Residents new to Columbia County and seeking help with the transition, or looking to meet new people, can do so through the Augusta Area Newcomers Club.
The club is open to anyone who has moved to the Augusta area within the past five years, or for those who have undergone a major lifestyle change, such as a divorce or retirement.
"The purpose of the Augusta Area Newcomers Club is to help acclimate new residents, while providing opportunities to make acquaintances and become involved in social and charitable activities," said club President Jane Cashin. "It's just a very congenial group of ladies."
The club, which primarily consists of women, is holding a pot luck dinner and social on Saturday from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at the Windmill Plantation clubhouse.
To become part of the club, members pay annual dues of $20, attend at least one meeting and contribute to the group's charity of the year. For 2008-09, that charity is the Columbia County Humane Society.
Club members meet monthly, excluding June, July and August, at a variety of locations throughout the area. In addition to monthly meetings, members can participate in activities, including golf, bowling, bingo, mah-jongg, a garden group, a book club, an art group and a cappuccino club.
The group, formerly named the Welcome Wagon Club of Augusta in 1971 and Augusta Newcomers Club in 1980, is currently made up of about 140 people.
People previously living in foreign countries and across the country have been attracted to and joined the group, said Cashin, who has been a club member for 10 years.
"I think you might find a particular (activity) that you'll really enjoy," she said. "You do meet people from all over."
Saturday's event costs $5 per person. Reservations are required and can be made by contacting Jeannie Hipsher at (706) 210-7547. Go to www.augustanewcomers.com.
IF YOU GO
What: Augusta Area Newcomers Club's pot luck dinner and social
When: Saturday, 6:30-10p.m.
Where: Windmill Plantation Clubhouse
Cost: $5; reservations required
Contact: Jeannie Hipsher at (706) 210-7547