Marco Island Woman’s Club – Giving Thanks in November

Naples Lakes Country Club was the place to be to celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving as the Marco Island Woman’s Club (MIWC) enjoyed its November luncheon. MIWC President Sue Purvis welcomed the crowd to a bountiful Thanksgiving feast complete with holiday décor. This joyful gathering united the ladies of MIWC in the essence of friendship and service to our community, the motivating forces of this amazing club. 

Guest speaker Karna Small Bodman captivated the audience with fascinating stories of her very accomplished life. Bodman began her career as a news reporter and anchor in San Francisco, and later moved to Washington, D.C., where her life would take a most interesting turn. She served six years in the Reagan White House, starting off as Deputy Press Secretary under Jim Brady, and later as Senior Director of the National Security Council. When she left the White House to take on the role of Senior Vice President of a Public Affairs firm, she was the highest-ranking woman on the White House staff. She is now an award-winning author, having written several political espionage thrillers, including her newest release, “Protecting Jess.” Her writing talent is quite diverse, as evidenced by her children’s stories, “Wrigley at the White House” and “Stories of Jesus.”To learn more about this remarkable writer, please visit karnabodman.com.  

MIWC proudly welcomed several new members at the November luncheon. Membership chair Joyce Frame introduced Cindy Crane, Dotti Dubois, Karen O’Brien, Tiffany Mercer, and Betsy Wohltman. We look forward to sharing our dedication to community and spirit of friendship with these lovely ladies.  

Other MIWC activities in November included participation in the food packaging event for Meals of Hope and our annual Beach Cleanup.  

MIWC gives thanks for the opportunity of giving back to our community through our Charitable Foundation. Our members work diligently throughout the year to raise funds that will be presented in scholarships to students living on Marco Island and will support local charitable organizations and causes. Plans are underway for our annual fashion show fundraiser, “An Affair to Remember,” February 23, 2026, at Naples Lakes Country Club. This blockbuster event will be a showcase of style and glamour that will rival the red carpet of the Oscars. Sponsorship opportunities are available and appreciated. Membership to MIWC is available to all women who live on Marco Island, full-time or seasonal, whether you own or rent. Our special interest groups include book clubs, a stitchers group, a theater group, cards & games, and even a travel club. We thrive with the opportunities to donate our time as helpers at community events like Meals of Hope, our annual Beach Cleanup, the American Cancer Society Imagination Ball, Camp Able, Little Pink Houses of Hope, and more. Please join us! For more information, including membership and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.marcowomansclub.com.