Hoquiam’s first Galentine’s Day celebration, organized by Mayor Jasmine Dickhoff, raised $360 for the Domestic Violence Center of Grays Harbor on Feb. 13.
“Female friendship is such a powerful and special thing that needs to be nurtured,” Dickhoff posted when she created the Facebook event page. “Or as Leslie Knope, deputy director of the Pawnee Parks and Recreation Department would say, ‘Ovaries before brovaries.’”
She was referring to Amy Poehler’s character in the TV series “Parks and Recreation,” which spawned the idea for the event. Dickhoff hopes to make it an annual thing.
Brittany Figg-Case donated the use of the Brunch 101 space on Simpson Avenue, and several community members helped with setup and cooking for the waffle bar, which included toppings ranging from gooey hot blueberries to chocolate chips to chopped bacon. Fruit juice and mimosas also were served.
More than 50 women attended, most from Hoquiam, Aberdeen and Cosmopolis. Laughter abounded as friendships were formed and celebrated.
“We have so many rad gals in Grays Harbor, and it was an honor to be in all of your company this evening,” Dickhoff posted on the event page later.
Donations were accepted throughout the evening for the local women’s shelter, represented at the event by executive director Gloria Callaghan.
Dickhoff also presented her inaugural Female Empowerment Award to Jill Smith, student counselor and drama director at the Hoquiam School District. The mayor said it’s meant to recognize “those who dedicate themselves to empowering women whenever and however they can.”
Smith “encourages people to take a stand when many are told to take a seat,” said Dickhoff. “She is the embodiment of the fiercely unconditional supporter of women of all backgrounds, interests and strengths.”
She added that Smith’s name will be attached to the formal award title for the future. “My hope is that by establishing this award, she will continue to shine as an example to those in our community and beyond.”
(Kat Bryant | Grays Harbor News Group) Hoquiam Mayor Jasmine Dickhoff, left, hugs Jill Smith after honoring her with the inaugural Female Empowerment Award.
(Kat Bryant | Grays Harbor News Group) Sarah Little and Ashlee Mitchell of Aberdeen were among the dozens of attendees who enjoyed the waffle bar.
