The Bonsall Woman’s Club (BWC) members were quite excited to finally meet in-person at the Bonsall Community Center for their June meeting. It was the first time since March 2020. The program, led by Laurie Criscenti, the current year’s Program Chairman, featured the installation of the new officers for the 2021-2022 year. As Laurie installed each officer, she read their responsibilities, and handed them a Succulent Plant as each agreed to their new position.
The Club is so fortunate to be led by Mary Jane Poulter. Her leadership qualities and strong people-oriented background is reflected in the many awards she has received in the past, which include: She has been acknowledged as the “Woman of the Year” by the California State Senate, “Volunteer of the Year” by the Bonsall Woman’s Club, “Community Leader of the Year” by the Bonsall Chamber of Commerce, served three terms as The President of the Bonsall Chamber of Commerce, and was the 1st Honorary Mayor of Bonsall.
Over the years, Mary Jane accumulated many awards, including the “Award of Merit” by the Boy Scouts of America, the “Davis Youth Foundation Tennis award” after having won her high school intermural Tennis Championship. At age 20, she competed against 12 finalists for the title of Miss G.I. of California in Beverly Hills, playing the violin as her talent part of the contest. She was judged the winner and was crowned “Miss G. I. of California” by the then Governor.
Mary Jane is known to seek out friends and associates who have a sense of humor, which is one of the defining attributes for volunteering. She organized and designed shirts for “Jockey Shirt Signing Day” at the Del Mar Racetrack. Further, taught Oil Painting to the Bonsall 4-H Club, and the Bonsall Elementary School. She also chaired the Bond Committee to build the Bonsall Elementary School.
Mary Forbess, a long-time friend and original BWC member, describes Mary Jane’s nature as, “A great influence on us all and, with a remarkable heart, she brings great spirit and leadership to the residents of Bonsall.”
While the BWC will remain dark during the summer, meetings will return the first Thursday in September at the Bonsall Community Center. Mary Jane has chosen the theme of “Using our talents to serve others.” For more information, visit www.bonsallwomansclub.org.
