Club Hosts Garden Party Fundraiser and Memorial

Members of the Ponderosa Republican Women of Spokane County (PRW) gathered in the beautiful backyard garden of member Gretchen McDevitt for a garden party fundraiser on Thursday, August 5, 2021. The party was held to honor Sharon Silzel, a former PRW member who passed in December of 2020. Sharon’s husband, Jack Silzel generously sponsored the event. Nearly 80 guests attended and enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres, libations, and soft guitar music by guitarist Jonathan Nicholson. There was a hat contest, and several prizes were awarded to recognize the most beautiful hats.

To kick off the event, PRW President Earl Moore welcomed guests, said a prayer and led the pledge of allegiance and then introduced Congresswoman Cathy McMorris-Rodgers. The Congresswoman paid tribute to Sharon and Jack and their long-time commitment to the Republican Party. Jack Silzel was Cathy’s first Legislative Aide in Washington DC and Sharon put in countless hours as a volunteer. ​

A beautiful scrapbook of memories of Sharon, created by Gretchen McDevitt was presented to Jack. He was deeply touched by the gift and then shared why PRW meant so much to Sharon. She believed deeply in the importance of education, volunteerism, and support of conservative candidates. After the presentation, guests enjoyed the evening tremendously. Good food, wine, music, beautiful flowers, a garden fountain and plenty of conversation. It was a great evening of friendship and fun!

A silent auction gave people the opportunity to contribute to PRW as well. Beautiful gift baskets and other donations brought in additional funds. The event was a huge success and nearly $5,000 was raised to support the mission of PRW.  Jennifer Hicks, Vice President of Fundraising presented the idea for the garden party and led the committee. The entire PRW Board and several of the Washington Federation of Republican Women's Executive Board attended to make it an evening to remember.