Marco P.E.O. Chapter Ends Season with a "Yahoo!"

The Marco Island Chapter of P.E.O. International ended its busy season with presentations from two prominent Marco women, a lively cowboy-themed social that doubled as a fundraiser that corralled $6,000 for the organization, and a celebration of the Chapter's 38th anniversary.

The official "birthday" of the Marco Island Chapter of P.E.O. International is April 18, but the group celebrated a day early, with a continental breakfast that included bonus birthday cupcakes to take home. A review of some lovingly prepared scrapbooks and photo boards featuring members and events over the years took today's members on a sweet and sentimental journey into the past.

Backdrop for a Texas-style pig roast, the Chapter's headline event in March was a condo poolside. There were plenty of Old West decorations, "Singing Cowboys" music of Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, and Sons of the Pioneers, and lots of "howdy, friends." A terrific silent auction offered a wide variety of services and products, pushing total funds raised to $6,000.

In March, members heard first from President and CEO of Marco Island Historical Society Pat Rutledge. Rutledge related the story of the 1896 discovery of the Key Marco Cat, an anthropomorphic Native American wood carving, and the 25-year effort to borrow it from the Smithsonian. The famous artifact's 7.5-year exhibit at the Marco Island Historical Museum recently ended.

Also, Roz Minicozzi, president and owner of Always There Health Care, revealed how her own health challenges inspired her to create a business dedicated to in-home care for those struggling with illness and disability. She emphasized the importance of matching individual patient needs with the correct level of service and caregiver.

P.E.O. supports women pursuing higher education with scholarships, awards, grants, and low-cost loans.