Neighborhood Club Honors Community Citizens

POUGHKEEPSIE – The Poughkeepsie Neighborhood Club, Inc. hosted its 99th annual Lincoln Douglass Luncheon, on Saturday, February 11 at the Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel.

Shirley Adams, Reverend Michael Bell, Ondie James, Wesley Lee, Edwin Ramirez, Lana Williams-Scott, Sharlene Stout, and Gilbert J. West, Sr. were among the distinguished citizens who were honored this year for their service and contributions to improving the quality of life in the Hudson Valley.

According to Poughkeepsie Neighborhood Club President Magary Blythe, the purpose of the annual luncheon is three-fold: to honor Black History Month; to honor distinguished citizens and to raise money for their scholarship program. “We rely on the generosity of all our friends, patrons, honorees and guests. This luncheon is made possible because of your continued support,” Blythe stated.

“The Lincoln Douglass Luncheon is synonymous with our commitment to high achievement, the advancement of our youth and to sing songs of praise to our unsung heroes in our community. We have a long and proud tradition of public service and leadership in our community, for which we have received numerous forms of recognition,” Blythe stated.

Carol Robinson, Chairperson for this year’s Lincoln-Douglass Luncheon, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for everyone who attended the event and those continue to support their program which has persevered in the City of Poughkeepsie for almost a century. She also thanked sister Johanna McKinney who passionately served as luncheon chairperson and helped make it one of the city’s most treasured and meaningful events.

“It is refreshing that we are able to gather together to celebrate and witness the acts of kindness and goodness of humanity in these challenging times. In unique ways, each of our honorees has expressed and demonstrated a desire and concern to improve the quality of life for people in the community. Hopefully, their stories will inspire and ignite the desire for you to let your light shine a little brighter,” she stated. She encouraged everyone to converse, share and learn because you may be a blessing to someone today.

The Poughkeepsie Neighborhood Club has other programs, such as the Biennial Cotillion, Black History Program and the Girls Club. The Girls Club motto is “Lifting As We Climb,” and continues to be carried out in service to the community. As long as there is anyone within the scope of our reach who requires a helping hand, we are there to help in any way we can – “Lifting As We Climb.”