THE JOANS EFFECT

  "The Jones effect" is a marketing term indicating the power of imitation.  It's the old "keeping up with the Joneses" idea.  Sales people will attempt to sell their product by listing others who have already purchased the item, be they the Joneses next door or some big name sports hero or Hollywood star.  It sounds like a cheap trick, but is, in fact, very effective.
 

  Now, at SPPC we have the "Joans effect."   There are several members of the congregation named Joan, but two of them are the driving force behind the Sunshine lunch, a social event catering to singles in the congregation.  This is a program that has been running at SPPC for at least fifteen years if not more.  At one time the lunch was pot luck, but in more recent years one of our Joan's, Joan MacD has provided a made-from-scratch feast, including hors d'oeuvres and punch, main course and dessert.  She has many willing helpers, but Joan is our head chef.

     Attendance averages around 30, mostly members of the congregation, some past members (our former organists are frequently there!) and guests.  For those who'd like a meal but can't make it to the church that day, the crew will provide a take-out.  How about that for service!
     

The other Joan, Joan A is chief administrator.  She handles things like selling tickets, rounding up kitchen staff, organizing a set-up crew and finding entertainers.  Oh yes, your ticket not only gets you a delicious, served lunch, you get entertainment as well.  It's a great deal.
   

  This past Monday was St. Patrick's Day, so the luncheon had an Irish theme.  Lettuce (green) soup, Irish stew, and Janet M's dance crew performing some Irish dances.

    
    The lunch schedule is roughly every six weeks, on a Monday,  except for the summer months.  The longevity and popularity of this program indicates how valuable it is to our fellowship.  
        Thanks to the Joans and all their helpers for this important ministry.