Newly formed civic club makes early impact on community

By Marlene J. Bohr
mbohr@steelcountrybee.com

Forming a little over a year ago, CRESS Community Foundation has already made an impact on the community of Avinger and the surrounding area. Ronnie Politi, Elaine Moulton, Shelby Trimble and Sue Maxinoski work hard to see the various goals of the foundation are met and they also serve as directors.
“With a dedication to raising money through donations and fund-raising events, CRESS relies strongly on volunteer efforts,” Mrs. Politi said. “Our focus is on projects where this organization’s support will make a significant difference in the community. Working with other non-profit groups and organizations, CRESS strives to aid others to improve and grow the community. Our priority is and will always be the heart and soul of our community....our children.”
CRESS has played a big role in the restoration of the Avinger Community Park and has assisted the 1936 Study Club with their long-planned project. Additional work on the park is planned this year, in which CRESS members will be actively involved.
“One of our projects is the ‘In The Arts’ scholarship,” Mrs. Politi said. “This year the scholarship is being awarded to Paige Hitt, a very active sophomore at Avinger High School. As directors of CRESS, we chose to handle this specific scholarship program, by providing classes, workshops, mentors, supplies, or whatever may be needed to move the student forward, from where they are now to where they have the potential to be. We have chosen two workshops for Paige at this time. As other students are identified, they will also be considered as recipients. This is an on-going scholarship program running throughout the year for students in any grade.”
Miss Hitt is extremely gifted in both fine arts and theater arts, according to Lane Loyd, her art teacher at Avinger High School.
“She is one of the most creative students I’ve had the pleasure to be around,” Mr. Loyd said. “She also donates her time to mentor young students at Avinger in the arts and has recently completed a mural in our school gymnasium.”
The CRESS Foundation ladies are not still a minute and are always planning or continuing projects.
“We are assisting with the preparation of the city baseball field, bleachers and a concession stand for a city league,” Mrs. Politi said. “CRESS is also researching The Little Free Library stations to be placed in strategic areas around town. These locations would allow the people in this small community a chance to conveniently borrow books and return them on the honor system. Books would be donated and changed out on a regular basis to keep the stations fresh and full.”
The CRESS Foundation recently finished a charity auction the first Saturday in April held at the Perry Hangar in Eagle Landing. On Sept. 20, the second Annual Avinger Wine Festival will be held on the property of Spike and Jackie Salmon’s historic home.
 

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