Kay Smith: Zonta Club taps Keefer as Woman of the Year

"We are pleased to announce this award winner, as she is someone who has demonstrated all the qualities that we look for in a nominee," said Patty Gift, Zonta president. "We received several letters from community leaders who supported this nomination. She is certainly a well-respected person in the business community."

Keefer has been president of the Bonita Springs Area Chamber of Commerce for the past seven years. She relocated from upstate New York.

Under her leadership, the organization achieved its accreditation status with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and was recognized as the Chamber of the Year in 2001 by the Florida Chamber of Commerce. Florida Gov. Jeb Bush recently appointed Keefer to participate on the Blue Ribbon Task Force addressing health issues. She serves on the Bonita Springs YMCA Board of Directors and is active in the Rotary Club of Bonita Springs Noon. Keefer will be honored at the Zonta Club of Bonita Springs' annual dessert auction on Tuesday, Nov. 25, at Pelican Sound Golf & Country Club.

Anyone interested in attending the luncheon may contact Linda Murphy, dessert auction chairwoman, at 498-2555.

Bonita Springs Shell Club members will make angels, small wreaths and refrigerator magnets when they meet for a crafts session at 9 a.m. Thursday in the Community Room, Building Two, Bonita Beach and Tennis Club on Bonita Beach Road. Participants should bring hot glue guns and protective table coverings.

For more information, telephone 495-6172.

The 2004 proposed slate of officers for the Friends of the Library Board of Bonita Springs was unanimously elected at Monday's board meeting. The president is Judy Quandt; vice president is Dorothy Savadel.

The offices of secretary and treasurer were combined under the direction of the newly elected Lorraine Gelly.

The next meeting will be held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at the Bonita Springs Public Library on Pine Avenue, off West Terry Street.

A Gallant Gobbler Luncheon and Card Party, hosted by the Fort Myers Beach Woman's Club, is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2003, according to spokeswoman Grayce Strum.

The luncheon will be served at noon. It is being prepared by Alma Allen, Tish Newell, and Norma Carroll, who are famous for their rum cakes. Cards of the individual's choice will be played after lunch with table prizes, a 50/50 and door prizes. A donation of $10 is requested. For reservations, call Rita at 433-5031.

Snowbirds, seasonal guests, friends and neighbors are most welcome to share in the fun celebrating the beginning of the holiday season. Members and guests are encouraged to bring canned goods for a Thanksgiving donation to local charities.