Sunflower Society Hosts Two Spring Events
By Marjorie York

The Sunflower Society hosted a Membership Coffee and Dessert Reception at Thyme (Willie’s) Restaurant located in the Arlen House Condominium in Sunny Isles Beach. Founding a current President Connie Morrow talked about the Sunflower Society’s long list of accomplishments throughout the past 35 years. Some of these achievements included raising funds for four projects: at Miami Children’s Hospital, Family Resource Centers for abused and neglected children, Summer Camp for Kids, and After School Enrichment Programs. In the past, in partnership with the State of Florida, Sunflower Society contributed funds to renovate buildings and irrigate the property, as well as established new programs and services for a facility that housed more than 1000 handicapped residents to improve their quality of life.

The highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of an original sunflower painting created by Eugenie Kaye which will be displayed at future Sunflower events. Event chairman Lee Liebman introduced Chris Antore whose lively entertainment was enjoyed by all. Raffle winners departed with lovely gifts.

Many thanks to Membership chairmen Madi and Commissioner Lewis J. Thaler for their effort on behalf of Sunflower and congratulations to the event co-chairpersons Veronica Fuchs, Lauren Ancher and Michael Alexander for a successful event.

Sunflower Society’s Gala Spring Luncheon at the Surf Club co-chaired by Lauren Ancher and Veronica Fuchs was another enjoyable time. Welcoming remarks were made by Board Member Michael Alexander. One of Sunflower Society’s recent projects is to provide funds to send children to Sunny Isles Beach Summer Camp. Kathleen and Steve Lesnick and the Sunny Isles Beach Police Department were generous sponsors of the event which will enable more children than last year to attend camp this summer. It was a bittersweet moment when Treasurer Lewis J. Thaler presented the check to Mayor Norman Edelcup in the name of Irving Kamlet who passed away in July after working for many years as chairman of the Kid’s Summer Camp Project. These funds were raised in Irving’s memory and he is painfully missed by the board. Irving Kamlet will always be remembered for his participation in many organizations throughout the community.

The audience was in for a special treat as re-known vocalist Maria Manville was introduced by her good friend Michael Alexander. After a delightful speech, board member Lee Liebman presented pianist Shelia Marie and international singing star Errol Dante who pleased attendees with a moving performance. Table gifts of dried fruits and nuts, donated by Commissioner Lewis J. Thaler were enjoyed by all. Door prizes were distributed by co-chairmen Veronica Fuchs and Lauren Ancher. A special thanks to well known photographer David Gartner who spent the whole afternoon taking pictures of our good time.

The Sunflower Society is a non-profit charitable organization which funds many worthy projects. Please join us at upcoming events. Your dedication and commitment will make it possible for us to continue to support numerous worthy projects within our community. For information please call Membership Chairman Madi Thaler at 305-792-9490.

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