Over 200 people came together for events in early August in Eugene and Portland to celebrate our outgoing executive director, Marjory Hamann, and welcome our new director, Sharon Gary-Smith.

Peace & Pie in the Park — Another Succesful Year

Over 140 people joined us at Eugene’s Alton Baker Park for an afternoon of sun, delicious food and great company. Eugene’s own Ib Hamide shared a great array of sweet and savory pies and other delights. And, Randy Ross and the People’s Choice provided the perfect music for a sunny Sunday afternoon. Grantees came from Portland, Woodburn, Medford and of course, Eugene to make new friends and share highlights of their work. We had a short program honoring Marjory and Sharon, highlighted by a group of young allies who showered Marjory with rose petals as a symbol of thanks for her seven years of service as director.

Thanks to our event sponsor, Sustainable Wealth Management, and our new co-sponsor, City of Eugene Equity and Human Rights Center.

Here are some photo highlights:

Celebrating Marjory and Welcoming Sharon in Portland

Three days later, we hosted a get-together in Portland to honor our outgoing leader, Marjory Hamann, and to say welcome to incoming director Sharon Gary-Smith. We expected a small number of people on a weekday evening, but over 80 folks stopped by! In addition to hearing a few words from Marjory and Sharon about this new chapter in MRG’s leadership, we were also blessed with a song by Sharon’s daughter (and long-time MRG volunteer) Mariotta Gary-Smith. Photos from the Portland party:

Thanks to all the folks who volunteered time, energy and in some cases, vases and flowers so that members of the MRG community could come together for a good time. To make sure that you get future event emails, like us on Facebook or sign up to get email using the form on the left.