On Wednesday, Oct. 13, Whispers, the philanthropic organization of women in Whispering Pines, held its monthly luncheon at the Country Club of Whispering Pines.

In addition to being treated to a wonderful speaker, Carolyn Langston, local artisan, who exhibited her beautiful custom made wraps, the women were witness to the presentation of the Martha Hardee Award to Sharon Mathias.

The moderator, Pam Venet, listed Sharon's accomplishments and good works, which were numerous. She has been active in many aspects of volunteering and helping others. Through her efforts, funds were raised for the purchase of a wheelchair and a defibrillator at the Country Club of Whispering Pines. Mathias also organized classes for the club members and staff on the use of the defibrillator.

The organization, Whispers, itself, has benefitted greatly from her ability to inspire increased enthusiasm for its fundraising projects, especially the printing and distributing of the local Whispering Pines telephone directory. She is also active in her church, Brownson Presbyterian Church, specifically in the Stephen Ministry, a program of care giving, and serving as a head usher on a regular basis.

The award that Mathias received is named for the woman who started Whispers. She brought women in the community together to raise funds for local charities. Also present at the luncheon was Martha Hardee's son, Ron. He traveled some distance, wanting to show his gratitude for the continued honoring of his mother's memory. Whispers does this by officially recognizing other women who exemplify Martha Hardee's spirit of being active in her community.