On July 31st, 2024, Twilight Rotary welcomed Justin Leland from Money Wise and Downtown Rotary!
Justin's primary focus this evening was the historic Woolworth building, which his company Moneywise has decided to not only save and renovate but move their office to the second floor, with the basement being utilized for events!
Justin mentioned how the downtown area is slowly being revitalized and the symbolism behind Woolworth's. The original Woolworth building in North Carolina is now the home of the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, where the A&T Four (four African-American freshman at North Carolina A&T University, had their historic "sit-in". Though it is not known if there were sit-in's at this particular location in Bakersfield, this is now the last remaining Woolworth's and Moneywise, with a generous grant from the city, is renovating, but preserving the building's interior and it's iconic lunch counter.
Justin also mentioned how important the style of the building is and as it was the precursor to Mid-century Modern.
President Margaret then introduced Tequila day and how it's basically a health food ;)
The club then got together and organized over fifty backpacks for Mt Vernon Elementary's first ever Backpack Drive which were delivered on Tuesday, August 30th! Look forward to incoming pictures! Great job guys!
Each one contains:
