A Welcome to Washington Day for newcomers is being planned for Saturday, Feb. 23, at the Presbyterian Church.
Displays, brochures and information will be available from a variety of groups and organizations. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“The purpose of this event is to provide information on Washington to people just moving to our area,” said Paula Obermark, executive director of the Franklin County Area United Way, which will have a display as well.
Other groups to be represented include the Washington Area Chamber of Commerce and tourism office, Downtown Washington Inc., Franklin County clerk’s office (which will have voter registration forms), Four Rivers Area YMCA, city of Washington, including the parks department, Washington Historical Society and Washington Public Library.
Local residents also will be on hand to answer questions.
Obermark credits Judy Bierbaum, a member of the Presbyterian Church, with coming up with the idea.
“Although Judy was born and raised here, she had moved away after getting married, and when they came back in retirement she noted it was difficult to relocate and find out where everything was and what all was available in the community,” Obermark said. “We started talking about wouldn’t it be great to have a one-stop shop for people to learn about the community.
“From there the idea just grew and it’s become a combined effort of a lot people,” she added.
Obermark said if the day is successful, the group may consider making it an annual event.
“We just feel it’s a really good way to get people acquainted and feel comfortable in our beautiful city,” she said.
For more information or to register, people may call 636-432-1293. Registration is not required.
Refreshments will be available.
The Presbyterian Church is located at 4834 South Point Road.
