AAUW Grand Rapids MN: 2018

Monday, December 3, 2018

Grand Rapids Timberline

Volume 43, Issue 4 December-January 2018-19

President’s Message

Merry Christmas to the Best AAUW members! We have our Christmas party coming up with the "Fundraiser with a Twist" and dinner at the Eagles. We have the theme of "Personal or Pampering" and the ticket sales will go to benefit the scholarship fund. It's going to be a fun night!

After my note in the October newsletter, Member Cathy Davies had emailed about career choices when she graduated from high school (my options were teacher, nurse or secretary). Cathy said that she had 99 and 98% scores in math and science and her counselors offered her the same career choices. There was no suggestion to be a scientist, engineer, astronaut or doctor.

I had been Director of Admissions for a private college in Florida for many years. Our typical student was what we called "non-traditional", meaning they had graduated from high school a number of years prior and many had some college, but for some reason they did not finish. They were coming back to get their degree. They were very apprehensive thinking that everyone would be so much younger and sharper than they were. Once they started classes they realized that life experience really counted. Little did I realize then, that at a later time in my life I would be a part of an organization that raised money for scholarships for the non-traditional student. We can be so proud of the scholarships that we give each year. Money raised at our December Christmas Party "Fundraiser with a Twist" will go to help women and girls complete their education.

It always seemed that the perfect newspaper article appeared in the Herald Review each month prior to our AAUW meeting. It included the speaker and bio, location and time, what our organization is about and contact information on membership. Once I became a Board member, I realized that Karen Karls writes these fabulous articles, which include everything a current or prospective member needs to know about the upcoming meeting. Thank you Karen for doing such a terrific job! Note: We have had new members join AAUW because of Karen's articles.

Have a wonderful holiday!

Cyndy Agle, Co-President

DECEMBER 3 CHRISTMAS PARTY/FUNDRAISER

Location: Eagles Club, 1776 Pokegama Ave S., Grand Rapids

Social: 4:30 PM Dinner: 5:30 PM Program: Auction drawings
MENU: Beef Brisket, Roasted Baby Red Potatoes, Green Beans, Dinner Salad, Mango Cake, Punch and Coffee

Cost: $25.00 (pay at the door if you have not already done so)

RSVPs: The RSVP deadline was Nov. 19 as we had to give our food count to the Eagles 2 weeks in advance. If you missed it,see if there have been any cancellations by contacting Deanna Ensley at 360-333-0228 (cell), call or text, and/or emaildeannaensley@yahoo.com

Auction with a Twist

We have a new theme this year for our "Fundraiser with a Twist."

Bring a "Pampering or Personal" gift.

Ideas: Bath products; a journal; Candle; cozy throw; travel accessories; inspiring book; slippers; mug, coffee & a book; jewelry; a gift card for a restaurant or a manicure; spa gift basket; a box of coffees or tea or chocolates; gloves or mittens; spa products or flowers.

Tickets will be sold as follows:
25 tickets for $20, 12 tickets for $10, 6 tickets for $5, or $1 a ticket.

This benefits our scholarship fund and it is our annual fundraiser.

January 21 Lunch ProgramLocation: United Methodist Church, Grand Rapids

Register/Social: 11:00 AM Dinner: 11:30 AM Program: 12:00 PM
MENU: Soup, salad and cookie
Nancy Raymond is Food Committee chair for this meeting.

Cost: $10.00
TOPIC: Current School District 318 InitiativesPRESENTER: Joni Olson, Superintendent

Joni Olson will talk about some academic programming updates and will provide information regarding the status of the elementary facilities project. The elementary facilities information will include the most recent architectural drawings of the new elementary schools and steps in the transition planning process.

Joni Olson has served as Superintendent of ISD 318 since July 2017. Prior to that, Joni worked for the St. Cloud Area School District for 19 years. She was first employed in St. Cloud as an assistant principal, then as a principal and for her final three years held the district level position of Executive Director of Student Achievement and Strategic Alignment. Joni holds bachelor's and master's degrees and sixth-year certification from St. Cloud State University and took coursework at St. Mary's for her superintendent licensure.

“Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more,
but those giving.”

― H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Welcome three NEW Members!

Susan Hayes of Cohasset, recruited by Deanna Ensley
218-999-5809 or 218-269-4987 (cell), susanosterhayes@gmail.com

Birthday: October 12, 26350 River Rd, Cohasset, MN 55721
BA 1972: Drake University, Des Moines; MA: 1976 U of Northern IA

Marsha Miller of Grand Rapids, recruited by Karen Karls

218-259-9026, jmchell91@gmail.com, Birthday: April 20
35559 Hill Rd, Grand Rapids, MN 55744
BS: Mass Comm/Journalism, Moorhead

Marlys Mestemacher of Hill City, recruited by Jeanne Walthour
218-340-6378, marlysmestemacher@gmail.com, Birthday: December 6

68872 US Highway 169, Hill City, MN 55748
BS 1079: Social Work, Bemidji State

I was born in South Minneapolis, and graduated from Bloomington Kennedy in 1973. I then went to Bemidji State and majored in Social Work. I also worked with Head Start until moving to Sandstone in 1980, where I was social worker at the hospital and nursing home until 1988. I then worked for Pine County Human Services for 29 years in disabilities and adult services. I met my husband, Tom, in Sandstone. We have two children and 5 grandchildren. We retired to Hill Lake in 2018 and now reside between both families. I am excited to join AAUW, and meet like-minded women, interested in furthering education for young women. - Marlys Mestemacher

We will feature more new member introductions in upcoming newsletters. Marj Lavelier is collecting them on behalf of the Membership Committee.

AAUW Membership Information
Did you know . . .

We have 2,070 AAUW members in Minnesota.
The largest branch in MN is in Minneapolis, next St. Paul, Rochester, Grand Rapids and Duluth. This was the membership count last year. We can be very proud of the number of members in our Grand Rapids branch—now at 95 members! We have approximately 5% of the total membership in our state.
AAUW (National) had a goal of 90% renewal for memberships and the goal was met.

Minnesota AAUW State Convention
The MN AAUW State Convention will be held in Grand Rapids on April 26 and 27 and will be held at Timberlake. We have not had a convention here since 1982. Please let me know if you would be able to help either on Friday or Saturday.

You can email me: cyndy.agle@gmail.com

ONLINE CONNECTIONS . . .

Branch Blog

Did you know that our branch has a blog? Check it out at http://grandrapidsaauw.blogspot.com/

Sign up for “Members Only” AAUW Facebook page

This url link https://www.facebook.com/groups/862408073952240/ will take you to the “closed” Facebook account for the "AAUW of Grand Rapids, MN". CLOSED means that the page is only visible to those AAUW Branch members who have signed up for access.

It is our hope that our members will contribute and post important related messages or pictures that benefit and encourage all members to stay active. You must ask to be a current Facebook user and then ask to be an accepted member to this closed Facebook page. No other Facebook users will see our posts.

Please contact Sharon Quern at slquern@aol.com if you have questions on this new AAUW Facebook account. Grand Rapids is hosting the State Convention in 2019.

Are you reading our newsletter thoroughly?
Here’s a fun incentive. The first three members to respond in email to Cyndy Agle at cyndy.agle@gmail.com will receive 5 tickets for the fundraiser drawing on Dec. 3.

** INTEREST GROUPS **

Did you know that you could start a Special Interest group? It could be genealogy, photography, a movie group, a cooking class, gardening, travel discussions or a wine group or a social group that goes to restaurants once a month. The group can meet once a month, quarterly or anytime! If you have ideas, contact Cyndy Agle at cyndy.agle@gmail.com

EXPLORING OUR COMMUNITY
Join members for field trips to various places of interest. See Jan. 10 Grand Rapids School activity under Public Policy group.

LITERATURE – Monday group

Group meets on 1^st Monday at 10:00 AM at Grand Rapids State Bank Annex. Contact is Jan Hill, 246-9791 or jmhgkh@paulbunyan.net
Dec. 3: Brunch at Audrey Erdman’s, 9:30 am. Books for 2019 will be selected.

LITERATURE – Wednesday group
This group meets at 10:30 am on 2^nd Wednesday, Grand Rapids Area Library River Room, September-May. Contact is Barbara Zimmer, 327-0911 or kbzimmer@q.com

Dec. 12: Britt-Marie Was Here: A Novel by Fredrik Backman

Jan. 9: Elephant Company by Vicki Coke

PUBLIC POLICY

Following our November meeting in which we discussed funding for postsecondary education and had a presentation by Sheila Anderson, GRHS high school counselor, we decided we wanted to learn more about secondary technical education. To that end, on Thurs., Jan. 10, we will meet in the Grand Rapids High School lobby at 3:30 and have a tour of the technical center led by teacher Tim Larson. We also have an option to come during the school day when students will be actively working on projects and all teachers will be there. This would be at 12:30. All are invited to join us, whether you have participated in Public Policy meetings or not, and an RSVP is appreciated to either Jean Halverson (327-9158 or jehhmh@mchsi.com) or Jan Bilden (492-4129 orjpbilden@gmail.com). When responding, please note at what time you would be attending.

WALKING & TALKING

The group is on the Fall/Winter schedule of walking Tuesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. It’s open for any member who wants to walk on a regular or occasional basis. We generally walk for about an hour and then have coffee. The location of the walks varies from week to week but we walk outside rather than in a mall or gym. Walkers are notified of the planned walk via a group email. If you want to be added to the group, notify Karen Karls at k.karls@yahoo.com or 326-2053. If you are currently getting emails but are no longer interested, let Karen know. There’s no need to RSVP on walks, just show up at the designated spot.

DECEMBER-JANUARY BIRTHDAYS - Best Wishes!

DEC 2 – Carol Rasmussen                  DEC 3 – Julie Skallman
DEC 6 – Nancy Alfuth, Marlys Mestemacher DEC 9 – Abby Marier
DEC 14 – Crystal Sunell DEC 26 – Charmayne Nelson
DEC 27 – Gayle Coyer    DEC 31 – Jean Czekalski

JAN 1 - Kathleen Possai JAN 2 – Marney Smith
JAN 10 – Janet Stejskal JAN 21 – Dianne Anderson

JAN 25 – Alexandra Zimmerman
JAN 27 – Marian Barry Louise Koglin Fideldy, Karen Wennen
JAN 28 – Brenda Ruud

AAUW GRAND RAPIDS BOARD MEETING

November 19, 2018, Public Utilities Building

The Grand Rapids branch of AAUW held the November 19, 2018 board meeting at 3:45 pm.

Members in attendance: Cyndy Agle, Deanna Ensley, Kathleen Spencer, Jan Bilden, Marj Lavalier, Jan Miland, Karen Karls, Nancy Raymond and Cheryl Vogel.

Karen Karls made a motion seconded by Jan Bilden, to accept previous minutes. Passed.

Cheryl Vogel presented the treasurer's report.

Marj Lavalier said that there are three new members. The "Bring a Guest" event was successful because of the exposure even if the guest didn't join. There will be another new member orientation in February.

It is important to have a member sitting at the table with Cheryl, but also that person should have training about what is expected.

There are 49 people signed up for the December dinner at the Eagles. Discussion about when to have next year's December event was held. Should it be later?

A discussion was held about the serving size by our regular caterer so there won't be so many leftovers. It was agreed that no shows should pay for the meal.

Nancy said that she will continue with the travel treasure fundraiser and have a book sale again in April. The fundraising money goes to all areas of giving.

Kathleen said she received a letter from a STEM participant and will send a thank you letter for the participant's willingness to be an ambassador for the program.

Jan Bilden said that Grand Rapids school district superintendent, Joni Olson, will be the January speaker.

The next board meeting will be December 10, 2018.

Respectfully submitted,

Jan Miland, Secretary

ADVANCING EQUITY FOR WOMEN & GIRLS – FOR MORE INFORMATION

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION www.aauw.org

AAUW MINNESOTA www.aauwmn.net

Sunday, October 28, 2018

NEWS FOR AND ABOUT
AAUW GRAND RAPIDS BRANCH MEMBERS

EDITOR: Arlene Wheaton, Arlene@honeybearwoods.com (218) 232-4989

Grand Rapids Timberline

Volume 43, Issue 3 November 2018

President’s Message

Attending a small high school in a small town in Wisconsin I only knew of three careers: Secretary, Nurse or Teacher. I didn't want to be a secretary (except when I was 8 years old I wanted to work in an office and wear high heels), medical was not my interest and my mother had been a teacher so I decided to go to college to become a teacher.

There was a game along the same lines. Did you ever play the board game from the 60's called "What Do You Want To Be?" When I went to the state convention in Duluth, the mayor spoke and she had the game. There were six categories: Teacher, Nurse, Stewardess, Ballerina, Model and Actress. If there were a game today, could you imagine the categories? STEM...Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.

A huge thank you goes out to Arlene Wheaton. She not only does the newsletter, but she does the directory. Those are two huge jobs. Thanks a million! We are very fortunate to have Arlene in our Grand Rapids branch.

In November, we will be talking about the State Convention, which will be held here on April 26 and 27. Please check your calendars--will you be able to assist with the convention? There will be sign-up sheets at our November meeting.

See you on November 12^th,
Cyndy Agle, Co-President

NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION

From Marj Lavalier, Membership Vice President

Beginning one hour before our Nov. 12th dinner program meeting at 4:00 pm at the Methodist Church, we will have a New Member orientation meeting for all new members since March 2018 and/or anyone who has not been to an orientation presentation and conversation. It will be an excellent opportunity to learn more about what AAUW is and stands for and meet some of our board members. I will try to invite everyone who may fall into this group. If I miss you, please come anyway. If you have any questions please call Marj Lavalier, 326-2716.

November 12 Dinner Program Meeting

Location: United Methodist Church, Grand Rapids

Register/Social: 5:00 PM Dinner: 5:45 PM Business Meeting: 6:30 PM Program: 7:00 PM
MENU: Swedish Meatballs, Noodles, Tossed Salad, Bread, Cookie

Cost: $15.00

RSVPs: MUST be received by Deanna Ensley by Fri., Nov. 2. Contact Deanna Ensley at 360-333-0228 (cell), call or text, and/or email deannaensley@yahoo.com

TOPIC: Taking Care: A Conversation About, With, By and For Caregivers, Care Receivers and All Who Love Them

PRESENTER: Pastor Vicki Taylor At many times in our lives we inhabit one of the “care” roles, either as the giver or receiver or the person concerned about the stresses put on a friend or relative in a challenging situation. How do we support caregivers? How do you ask for help? How do you gracefully accept care? These are just a few of the topics that Vicki Taylor may address.

Ordained in 1992, Pastor Vicki Taylor is a graduate of Luther Seminary and a retired ELCA pastor. A Grand Rapids native, she returned to the area for her first call at Jesse Lake Lutheran Church and Suomi Lutheran Church. Her second call was as an associate pastor to St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids and her third call was as Assistant to the Bishop of Northeastern MN Synod of ELCA in Duluth. She continues to contribute to both her community and the church and is enjoying retirement with her husband.

BOOK SALE FUNDRAISER

We’ll have our biannual used book sale at our November 12 meeting. Please bring 1-3 great reads to support our scholarship fund. You may find some holiday gifts among the selections. Children’s books can be donated to the area’s Red Book Shelves. Reference books or books unlikely to appeal to our members can be given to the local library.

New Meeting Activity: Table Hostesses

We are doing something new at our monthly meetings this year. We will have a Board member as a "Table Hostess" at each table. They will be able to answer any questions that may arise and give general information on AAUW. We will have a special spot for the table hostess at each meeting.

“Women tend to be problem solvers. We work together.”

― Senator Amy Klobuchar

December Fundraiser/Christmas PartyDecember 3, Eagles Club, Grand Rapids

This is our big fundraiser “with a twist” for scholarships. We hope to raise nearly $1,000!

“Pampering” is our theme and all members are asked to bring an item. Perhaps you have several related items that you can group in a basket. Gift cards are popular…Target, Visa, etc., or how about one for a pedicure? Other ideas: bath products, candle, cozy throw, travel accessories, inspiring book, slippers, soaps...be creative!

We will sell groups of tickets for $1 per chance that you can use to select the items you would like to enjoy.

New catered meals
From Elaine Thorstenson, Food Committee Chair

Our new caterer, Rachelle Ireland, is scoring 2 for 2 on the meals she has catered for AAUW so far. We have been getting rave reviews on the September 15^th luncheon and our October 15^th dinner meal. Our November 12^th dinner looks to be a winner also with Swedish meatballs, noodles, tossed salad, bread and cookies. Rachelle believes in practicing the "farm to table" concept, using only the freshest and in-season produce whenever possible.

ONLINE CONNECTIONS . . .

Branch Blog

Did you know that our branch has a blog? Check it out at http://grandrapidsaauw.blogspot.com/

Sign up for “Members Only” AAUW Facebook page

Please contact Sharon Quern at slquern@aol.com if you have questions on this new AAUW Facebook account. Grand Rapids is hosting the State Convention in 2019.

State Convention Volunteer NeedsWe will host the AAUW State Convention in Grand Rapids on April 26 and 27! The convention has not been here since 1982 so what an opportunity to host 28 Minnesota branches!

There will be excellent and informative speakers. We went to the State Board meeting in October with our agenda and we have the confidence of the board after our presentation.

At our dinner program meeting on Nov. 12, you will have the chance to sign up to help either on Friday afternoon or Saturday at the convention. There will be jobs such as registration or helping set up the silent auction.

Just to give you an idea of what will be happening at Timberlake for the two days:

Friday afternoon: Registration, setting up the silent auction. Banquet at 6 pm.

Saturday morning: Registration and silent auction set up. There will be two speakers and two workshops on Saturday.

The price for attending is $65; meals extra (and optional).

If you are not able to attend the meeting on Monday, Nov. 12, and would like to help, please email cyndy.agle@gmail.com Thanks for helping!

** INTEREST GROUPS **

EXPLORING OUR COMMUNITY
Join members for field trips to various places of interest.

Sat., Oct. 6: Fall Studio Art Tour. This activity takes place in the artists’ workshops. This tour is set up by MacRostie. We took the studio tour last year and we visited eight studios in the area. We will meet at the Presbyterian Church at 9:00 AM and lunch at Fuji at noon. Note: You can do all or part of the tour. RSVP to Juliet Jones at kcjones@yahoo.com

LITERATURE – Monday group

Group meets on 1^st Monday at 10:00 AM at Grand Rapids State Bank Annex. Contact is Jan Hill, 246-979 or jmhgkh@paulbunyan.net No meeting in September due to Labor Day holiday.Nov. 5: Everybody’s Son by Thrity Umrigar; discussion leader is Audrey Erdman.

Books for 2019 will be selected.

LITERATURE – Wednesday group
This group meets at 10:30 am on 2^nd Wednesday, Grand Rapids Area Library River Room, September-May. Contact is Barbara Zimmer, 327-0911 or kbzimmer@q.com

Nov. 14: A Long Way Home: A Memoir by Sato Brierley

PUBLIC POLICY

The group will meet on Thurs., Nov. 8, 3:30-5:00 p.m. at the KAXE meeting room. The topic of the meeting will be the high cost of college education/college debt challenges. We hope to have a representative from ICC Financial Aid to help direct our discussion in a local and meaningful way.

Please bring any information from articles, books, etc., to share and contribute in the discussion. As always, we invite any member to join us and help further our education in a positive direction. Please call Jean Halverson, 327-9158,

or Marilyn Rossman, 326-6775, with questions.

The ISD School Board forum sponsored by AAUW Public Policy group was held on Oct. 23 and was enlightening, positive and appreciated by the candidates and the audience. There were approximately 60 people in attendance. We appreciate the opportunity to enhance our goals of furthering education at all levels.

WALKING & TALKING

NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS – Best Wishes!

2 – Connie Burley, Nancy Eltgroth
3 – Ginny Saxhaug 7 – Mary Kay Jacobson 16 – Sue Mattson
23 – Kathy Adams 29 – Margaret Pecha

ADVANCING EQUITY FOR WOMEN & GIRLS – FOR MORE INFORMATION

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION www.aauw.org

AAUW MINNESOTA www.aauwmn.net

Sunday, October 7, 2018

Grand Rapids

Timberline

NEWS FOR AND ABOUT

AAUW GRAND RAPIDS

BRANCH MEMBERS

EDITOR: Arlene Wheaton, Arlene@honeybearwoods.com (218) 232-4989

Volume 43, Issue 2 October 2018

***Attention: Important Change in Meeting RSVP***

RSVP’s for our October 15^th meeting HAVE to be received by Deanna Ensley by Fri., Oct. 5, if you plan on having dinner at the meeting. With our new caterer, there is a very different arrangement from the past few years. You can reach Deanna Ensley at 360-333-0228 (cell), call or text, and/or email deannaensley@yahoo.com

October 15 Dinner Program Meeting

Location: United Methodist Church, Grand Rapids

Register/Social: 5:00 PM Dinner: 5:45 PM Business Meeting: 6:30 PM Program: 7:00 PM
MENU: Baked Chicken, Rice Pilaf, Multi-grain Bread, Cookies

Cost: $15.00

TOPIC: Vocation to Avocation

PRESENTER: Frieda Hall, Retired Teacher

Frieda Hall will present an interactive discussion of what it means to be retired and how to find meaning beyond career and a lifetime of work. A retired teacher from School District ISD 318, Grand Rapids, she taught 23 years at the middle school and 10 at the high school, all in the social sciences, but primarily history and geography. A favorite class was the core of the International Baccalaureate program, Theory of Knowledge, which she taught the last six years of her career.

An immigrant, born in Germany to Holocaust survivor parents, Frieda came to the United States at age 2. She got her BA, and almost MA, at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, and then got her teaching degree from Bemidji State U. She thought she would teach until she could figure out what she really wanted to do in this part of the world, but discovered that she absolutely loved teaching. Frieda is married to Scott Hall; they have one married daughter and delightful granddaughter. Since retiring, she loves to travel, has become proficient in Spanish, volunteers at the Food Shelf and Boys and Girls Club, and is on the Grand Rapids Human Rights Commission.

President’s Message

Our appreciation goes out to all who helped make the September 15^th AAUW Regional Gathering a success. We had 60 in attendance with Grand Rapids, Duluth, Ely, Virginia, Hibbing and Brainerd branches represented. A special acknowledgement to Marva Jean Hutchens for her generous donation to the Kiesler Wellness Center for our room rental for the event.

We wish to express a thank you to our Treasurer Cheryl Vogel, who tracked all the fees for this event. She is such an asset to our organization and goes the extra mile. She keeps our financials in order, collects yearly dues and collects for the monthly meals. We are very fortunate to have such a devoted treasurer!

Do you remember job ads that you may have applied for a long time ago?

In 1973, I was living in Madison, Wi. At the time there was a surplus of teachers and living in a city with a large university I didn't get a teaching position. I started looking at the job ads in the newspaper and responded to this ad: Bored as a Secretary, Sales Girl or Clerk? Like people who exercise? Fantastic opportunity for new rewarding career with Elaine Powers Figure Salons as manager or instructor. We are looking for a warm, pleasing personality, will train, no experience necessary. Attractive and trim figure an asset.

Today young women in their 20's, 30's and 40's could not imagine a job ad like this....and isn't that a good thing! Now one doesn't use the newspaper to look for jobs either. Note: I did get the job and ended up as District Manager for the state of Wisconsin.

We have a very exciting year ahead and look forward to new and informative programs, meeting new members and many interesting AAUW activities. We encourage you to bring a first-time, qualified guest and the meal is just $5.00 for your guest on October 15.

Cyndy Agle, Co-President

Longtime member has passed away

Carole Erickson, 55-year member of our Grand Rapids AAUW branch, passed away on September 28. Her funeral will be held on Friday, October 5, at 1:00 p.m. at Community Presbyterian Church.

See her obituary:

http://www.grandrapidsmn.com/obituaries/carole-vera-erickson/article_1916f216-c34c-11e8-bddd-4f8a27fa348b.html

Carole attended our monthly meetings up until the last two years when her health began failing and she moved into Oak Hill Assisted Living. Marilyn Rossman kept in touch with her and could share many memories of Carole.

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”

― Helen Keller

December Fundraiser/Christmas Party

Our Christmas Party will be held, Mon., Dec. 3., at the Eagles. This year’s theme is "Personal or Pampering." Bring a gift for the fundraiser such as travel accessories, an inspiring book, a journal, slippers, jewelry, soaps, lotions, etc. More to follow in the next newsletter.

Sunshine and Caring

If you know of a member who is sick or needs a note of comfort, please let Juliet Jones know as she is sending out cards. Juliet's email is kcjones50@yahoo.com

ONLINE CONNECTIONS . . .

Branch Blog

Did you know that our branch has a blog? Check it out at http://grandrapidsaauw.blogspot.com/

Sign up for “Members Only” AAUW Facebook page

Please contact Sharon Quern at slquern@aol.com if you have questions on this new AAUW Facebook account. Grand Rapids is hosting the State Convention in 2019.

Member Corner

October is "Bring a Guest" month. Bring a qualified, first-time guest and their meal will be $5.00. Please let Deanna know when you are making the reservations.

We’re hosting AAUW MN State Convention in April 2019

Grand Rapids has the honor of hosting the 28 AAUW Branches in Minnesota for the state convention. It will be held at Timberlake Lodge on April 26 and 27, 2019. There will be a banquet on Friday night and on Saturday speakers set up by the state AAUW, silent auction, workshops and much more. We will be looking for volunteers and you can let me know at cyndy.agle@gmail.com

More from Deanna Ensley’s article for AAUW’s state newsletter:

Our theme is emphasizing “Great Minnesota Women” – “It’s in Minnesota Women’s Nature”. We believe in the women of this great state, from the current women in powerful positions like U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar to the adventurous outdoorswomen in Northern Minnesota, such as Mary Shideler, the Kayak Lady, in contemporary times, or Dorothy Molter, the Root Beer Lady of the Boundary Waters, in times gone by. It is and was in these women’s natures to be empowered leaders and innovators in their varied positions through lives. We, the members of Minnesota’s AAUW, are these very women.

On Friday afternoon, we will offer several activities for seeing the Grand Rapids sights, including the display on our state picture, “Grace”, at the Itasca County Historical Society; visiting our innovative mental health center, Kiesler Wellness Center; and the historical logging camp at the Forest History Center. In the later afternoon at the Timberlake event center, there will be a Welcome reception and cash bar, followed by dinner and our keynote speaker, Kathy Annette, Director of the Blandin Foundation, plus other activities, awards and entertainment.

On Saturday, both the morning and afternoon will offer a variety of interesting break-out sessions to include great Minnesota women and their efforts to empower people of this great state.

More information to come later.

** INTEREST GROUPS **

EXPLORING OUR COMMUNITY
Join members for field trips to various places of interest.

LITERATURE – Monday group

Group meets on 1^st Monday at 10:00 AM at Grand Rapids State Bank Annex. Contact is Jan Hill, 246-979 or jmhgkh@paulbunyan.net
No meeting in September due to Labor Day holiday.
Oct. 1: A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles; Discussion leader is Jan Hill.

Nov. 5: Everybody’s Son by Thrity Umrigar

LITERATURE – Wednesday group
This group meets at 10:30 am on 2^nd Wednesday, Grand Rapids Area Library River Room, September-May. Contact is Barbara Zimmer, 327-0911 or kbzimmer@q.com

Oct. 10: Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover

Nov. 14: A Long Way Home: A Memoir by Sato Brierley

PUBLIC POLICY

The group will meet on Thurs., Oct. 11, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the KAXE meeting room. We will be planning for this year’s meeting themes and interests. All members are urged to bring ideas about public policy issues that are of some interest related to AAUW’s public policy work.

Suggestions: Books, written articles, magazines and newspapers, events, speakers, etc. Our purpose is to learn about the background of issues and policy work by AAUW and to relate them to what we do to foster them. All members are welcome to participate and bring guests.

If you cannot come to this meeting but are interested, call or email Jean Halverson 327-9158 or jehhmh@mcshi.com, or Marilyn Rossman, 326-6775 or Mbro@PaulBunyan.net. We will be considering dates and times and perhaps make some changes in our schedule from last year.

We have civil discussions, interesting speakers and reading. Sometimes we have a book in three three or four parts for discussion.

With its new CEO and effort to appeal to younger women, AAUW has made some changes in its public policy issues focus. We will have the Minnesota AAUW Board Public Policy board member come to talk with us about the changes for one of our first three meetings.

WALKING & TALKING

USED BOOK SALE – Scholarship Fundraiser

We will hold our biannual used book sale at our November 12^th meeting. Start collecting some “good reads” to donate to the sale. All funds go to support our scholarships—ICC and Anniversary funds.

TRAVEL TREASURES
From Nancy Raymond

We again welcome simple but useful items from your travels to share with our group at our monthly meetings. For $1.00 a chance you may gain a gift but more importantly you are contributing to our scholarship program. It's fun to shop on a trip and this way you have fun, and we can do good as well. It's amazing how those dollars add up. Thank you to all who have shared and let's keep it going!

Member’s interesting trip to South America

On September 6, AAUW member Cathy Davies was the featured presenter at the Grand Rapids Area Library to talk about her trip to South America. During her presentation she showed lots of pictures, shared interesting facts about the places she visited, and sprinkled in some stories unique to her trip. It was broadcast several times in late September on ICTV’s Public Access Channel

For more dates this fall, go to http://watchictv.org/blog-entry/journey-south-america

Northland Regional Gathering Highlights

This year’s joint meeting of six Northern Minnesota AAUW Branches was a great success with 60 AAUW women in attendance. The day had no official theme but the presentations were historical in nature. There was a presentation made by Itasca County Historical Society’s Lilah Crowe on Minnesota’s official photograph, “Grace”, which was originally taken in Bovey. Dodie Davies, longtime AAUW member and Willmar resident, and mother of Grand Rapids AAUW member Cathie Davies, gave an inspirational presentation about the “Wilmar 8”—a group of women who went on strike in 1977 because the bank management was discriminating against the female employees, paying the male employees more and refusing to promote women. Dodie marched with the women to show her support.

We also heard from Steve Loney, director of the Kiesler Wellness Center, and an employment specialist from with Northland Counseling Center, Holly Holt, who coordinates an employment program at Kiesler. She spoke about how her work has positively impacted her life and career.

Branches shared their special ideas, events and activities for the year. The Hibbing Branch reminded us of their annual Used Book Sale fundraiser, which is held the first weekend in February every year at the Hibbing Armory.

The Duluth Branch is hosting a fundraiser for its local scholarships and invites anyone interested to attend.

CREATED HERE: Meet the Artists

Thurs., Nov. 8, Northland Country Club, Duluth
5:30-8:30 p.m.
Featuring Ivy Vainio, Photographer; Ann Gumpper, Scenic Designer; Karen Sunderman, Digital Storyteller; The Fish Heads, Kim Curtsi-Monson & Mike Monson, musicians; and Linda Turpening, Pianist

Cost is $45. Reservations by Oct. 20 to: Marilyn at 218-724-5078

Finance Report from Treasurer Cheryl Vogel

July - September 2018 - FIRST Quarter Financial Summary - Fiscal Year 2018-2019 (Based upon 06.18.2018 Bank Statement): Reviewed & Approved by Finance Committee:
v 95 paid members - 85: MOB; Dual: 4; Lifetime: 6
v Total Cash on Hand: $7,062.40 · General Checking Account: $5,358.74; Savings Account: $ 1,703.66 (08.31.18)
v Total Income First Quarter: $ 3,053.75 · Income: Dues: $451; Dinner Fees: $612; Specified Donations: $250; Fall Conference: $1,740; Checking Account Interest: $0.75.
v Total Expenses First Quarter: $ 9,118.45 · Expenses: National Dues: $4,484; State Dues: $756.00; Newsletter & Printing: $27.33; Dinner Expenses: $579.42; Meeting Room Rental: $25.00; Misc. Expenses: $25.00; Regional Conference: $216.70; State Conference: $3,005.
v Net Revenue (Profit) First Quarter: ($ 7,377.80) · Year to Date Net Revenue: ($7,377.80) Loss · The loss is due to: o Depositing $3,000 into State Conference checking account; o $5,903 dues payments were collected during the previous fiscal year. o Eventually, dues for fiscal year 2019-2020 will be collected this fiscal year, which will offset some of this year’s losses. v YTD Total Donations in Fiscal Year 2018-2019: $0.00 · Checking account designated funds to be dispersed at the end of the calendar year: $358.
COMBINED STATUS OF DEDICATED FUNDS: $ 60,333.00 v Local Scholarship Itasca Community College Foundation: $33,161 · $30,161: Permanently Restricted Funds; $ 3,000: Temporarily Restricted Funds. v Community Foundation: Grand Rapids AAUW: $31,355.83 · $ 31,752.17: Anniversary Scholarship: GRACF (Endowed Fund): $ 29,787.72: GRACF (Non-Endowed Fund): $ 1, 568.11
Cash on Hand - 09.2018
Checking Account	$5,358.74
Savings Account	$1,703.66
State Conference Checking Account	$1503.24
TOTAL	$8,565.64

AAUW GRAND RAPIDS BOARD MEETING

September 24, 2018, Public Utilities Building

The Grand Rapids Branch AAUW board meeting was held September 24, 2018, at the public utilities building.

Members in attendance were the following: Cyndy Agle, Marj Lavalier, Jan Bilden, Jean Hoshal, Cheryl Vogel, Karen Karls, Elaine Thorstenson, Deanna Ensley, Nancy Raymond, Juliet Jones and Jan Miland.

The meeting was called to order by President Cyndy. The secretary's report was approved, Cheryl moved and Jean seconded.

Cheryl presented the treasurer's report with total cash on hand, $7,062.40. There are 93 paid members. The annual report will be presented at the October meeting.

Jan Bilden reported that all of the programs are planned. A discussion was held about the speakers getting their information to Karen by the first of the month that they are speaking.

Marj reported on membership. Gayle Coyer designed and had printed new brochures. A new member orientation is planned for after the October meeting. Gayle also placed some brochures in the public library. A member may bring a guest to the October meeting for a $5 dinner cost. The goal is to have 12 new members this fall. Cheryl mentioned that 16 members did not re-join and is wondering if we should do a survey to find the reason.

Elaine reported from the food committee. With our new caterer, there needs to be $200 paid ahead of time and she adds a 10% projection onto the reservations. We pay that amount whether or not the meal is used. Reservations are very important and need to be made 9 days ahead of the meeting. The final count is turned in 2 days ahead.

Nancy talked about fundraising. The travel treasure is encouraged. She will talk about the December 3rd fundraiser at the October meeting to give members ideas about the event. There will be a book sale in November. A few good read books are encouraged.

Juliet is doing a wonderful job with sunshine and caring. Members need to let her know about cards that she can send.

Old business:

Marva Jean Hutchens donated $200 for the Kiesler Wellness Center use. Our fall regional event didn't have to take that amount out of the registration fees. We received lots of positive feedback from the other branches. They thought we were friendly, had excellent speakers, good food and many other praises were expressed.

Cyndy will be assigning a board member to each meeting table to make introductions and help members feel comfortable. Magenetic name tags were suggested. No action taken.

Members are encouraged to check with Sharon Quern to be on the closed facebook page for our branch. Also look at the blog. It contains lots of information for our branch, We will start promoting the 2019 state convention more in November.

The regular $25 donation to the scholarship fund was made in honor of our deceased member, Irma Benner. Personal donations can always be made to the scholarship fund in someone's name or just because one wants to help.

The next board meeting will be November 19, 2018, 3:45, at the Public Utilities building.

Respectfully submitted,

Jan Miland, Secretary

ADVANCING EQUITY FOR WOMEN & GIRLS – FOR MORE INFORMATION

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION www.aauw.org

AAUW MINNESOTA www.aauwmn.net

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AAUW MISSION

VISION STATEMENT

Monday, December 3, 2018

Sunday, October 28, 2018

Sunday, October 7, 2018