Pam's Corner... comments, questions and other stuff by Port's Famous Photographer

It's been another amazing week in PAPA.  The Junior High basketball teams have started their season.  I didn't make it to the games last week, but plan to get to one of their games very soon.

We had a nice Lenten Service Wednesday afternoon.  Some people call them Lenten Luncheons probably because that sounds pretty good...but they are short worship services followed by a light lunch giving people, even those who work during the day, an opportunity to attend and get back to work in a timely fashion.

Thursday there was another wonderfully-organized event sponsored by the Elementary Boosters and co-chaired by Stephanie McNeil and Carrie Russell.  It was the third annual Academic Fair.  The Fair gives students an opportunity to do a project and share it with others.  There was magic mud, growing beans, benefits of dance, making snow ice cream, rock candy, volcanoes, lava lamps and much more.  The students were especially pleased to have their teachers and principal, Mr. Kio, asking about their projects and complimenting them on their efforts.  I saw some little faces that were beaming as they were called to the stage to receive their medals for participating in the event.  This was what I call another "feel good" moment thanks to the Port Allegany School District and in this instance, the Elementary Boosters.

Earlier in the day, at the Rotary meeting, Anniek Zengerink gave a program on her homeland.  It was nice to learn a little more about this delightful young woman.

Saturday I went to a 90th birthday party for the mother of my friend, Peggy.  Jeanette Hugill's life was celebrated by family and friends from near and far.  A very good turnout, especially due to the uncooperative weather.  We took a 5-generation photo at the party...you don't see those too often.  Happy Birthday, Jeanette.

Sunday night, we went to a Valentine Dinner that had been postponed from last week due to illness and weather.  It was great!  Mike and I, along with Lexi and her husband, Matt, joined others from our church family and enjoyed a relaxing evening in a beautifully decorated room with delicious food catered by Ed Vicic and the Port Freeze.  We even had a little friendly competition at the end of the evening.  Thanks to the Nurture committee and those who were on the committee.  I may miss someone but I know the Burrs, Andersons, Frontinos and Headleys were involved.  To anyone I missed, please forgive me.  Thanks for a lovely evening.

Earlier Sunday was another one of those "feel good" moments from the PASD as the 2105 National Honor Society Induction Ceremony was held at the school.  What a nice bunch of kids to spend a Sunday afternoon with.  They were all very cooperative during the long photo shoot following the ceremony...everyone, naturally, wanted photos.  Vince Berrettini was the guest speaker.  He did a nice job as I knew he would.  I took pictures of Vince when he was inducted into the NHS.  I told him it seemed like yesterday.  He said it was 15 years ago.  He is an amazing young man.  PAHS is lucky to have him as one of their teachers. Congrats to Loren Ferguson who had her first induction ceremony as the NHS advisor.  Every thing went smoothly.

Before I end, I would like to wish our baby girl (now in her 30’s) a very Happy Birthday.  She doesn't have a real birthday this year, but will celebrate on February 28th.  I like to be with her on her "pretend" special day, but it just didn't work out this year.  Somehow, I will work it out next year when she celebrates her 8th "real" birthday.  Happy Birthday, Kacie Lynne!

Be kind to one another!