Lorine withGreg Welch giving a donation from Rotary to Lars Clutterham of the Downey SymphonyLorine hosting a book launch for Downey poet Rosalie Sciortino
A major force in the civic and cultural life of Downey passed away February 12, 2024. Lorine Parks was a week shy of 93 years old. She was a serious poet who supported all of the arts in Downey, and she was an active member of community organizations such as Rotary and Soroptimists. She was among the first four women to integrate Downey Rotary in 1988. She will be missed by many.
Constanza Pachon of the Whole Child spoke to the meeting about the services offered by this family support agency and the opening of an additional location in Downey/
The fabulous Warren High Jazz Choir entertaining us for our December meeting under the direction of Mr. Peterson. We will miss Mr. Peterson when he retires next year, and we hope the choir will continue.
These representatives from various Downey groups met monthly to keep abreast of important events and to plan the yearly banquet honoring their volunteers.
Chief Dan Hurlock of the Downey Fire Department spoke about challenges in meeting community needs and the reciprocal aid agreements that Downey FD has with other departments to help with public emergencies.
Our February speaker was Sheila Tetangco-Bartolone from the Downey Foundation for Educational Opportunities. This stellar organization supports the Downey school district by providing “equitable, affordable, and accessible enrichment programs” for students after school.
Our January speaker was Ignacio Gonzalez from the Southern California Resource Services for Independent Living (SCRS-IL). SCRS-IL provides services that promote independent living for people with disabilities.