FRAN ARROWSMITH

GAIL COLE

THELMA CARR

Several of our dedicated regular shop lady volunteers are retiring or “on leave” from the Madrona Marsh Nature Center gift shop. Our sincere thanks to Fran Arrowsmith, Thelma Carr, and Gail Cole for being our friendly gift shop clerks since the shop opened in 2003. These wonderful ladies have been involved with the Friends of Madrona Marsh (FOMM) since the beginning of our organization. Though shy of the limelight, they have shared their lives with us.

Gail Cole was on the FOMM Board of Directors, she is still this organization’s historian and continues to volunteer for regular shifts in the shop.

Thelma Carr has put all her efficiency and administration skills to use taking care of business and handling whatever might come up. Her gentle, but stern counseling have always been an integral part of the shop. Thelma is “on leave,” and we miss her, especially on Fridays.

Fran Arrowsmith has always been very resourceful for FOMM, the Nature Center, and the Gift Shop. We still hand out the written instructions she authored way back when, to our new shop volunteers. Her research has been a guide to us in everything from diorama cabinets to Friends of Madrona Marsh sew-on patches. Fran has helped us flourish for many years, and has now decided to retire from the shop.

We esteem these women for their staunch support of the Friends of Madrona Marsh. They have watched the seasons pass on the Preserve through the gift shop windows. All the adjectives used to describe best paid employees apply here: reliable, dependable, efficient, self-starter, accurate, pleasure to work with, and supportive. Add to that warm, friendly, caring, and knowledgeable.

Ladies, we thank you for graciously sharing the years with us. You’ve helped us grow into a community “destination”. We wish you continued health and joy in life’s next adventures.

FOMM Nature Center Gift Shop Manager,
Bobbie Snyder