Grand Rapids Timberline
AAUW Grand Rapids
1949-2019
Celebrating 70 years!
1949-2019
Celebrating 70 years!
Volume 43, Issue 7 April 2019
President’s Message
Our Grand Rapids AAUW branch turns 70 this year! April will be a very busy month for us as we prepare for and host the State Convention on Friday, April 26 and Saturday, April 27, but we will take time at our regular monthly meeting on Monday, April 15, to celebrate our 70th birthday and recognize this special occasion. We will serve birthday cake during our April dinner program meeting.
Our Grand Rapids AAUW branch turns 70 this year! April will be a very busy month for us as we prepare for and host the State Convention on Friday, April 26 and Saturday, April 27, but we will take time at our regular monthly meeting on Monday, April 15, to celebrate our 70th birthday and recognize this special occasion. We will serve birthday cake during our April dinner program meeting.
It is time once again to start collecting annual membership dues. You may pay your dues and sign up for our May dinner program at Ruttger’s at April’s dinner meeting. Dues are $85. Dinner is $30. The total cost is the same as last year--$115.
This year has been a big year. We were able to fund a third scholarship, the second at ICC for a female Engineering student. We are hosting a great convention, which actually does not cost us money but plenty of time and energy provided by a vast majority of our membership. Our programs are expanding to reach the goals of both State and National AAUW.
We have new members and new energy for the upcoming year! Thank you for all you do!
Deanna Ensley, Co-President
“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.”
― Mae West
AAUW TAX DEDUCTIONSTreasurer Cheryl Vogel advised that $56 may be deducted from the $85 annual dues. The deduction amount is for the National portion of the dues. The State and Local dues (which are significantly smaller) cover operational costs and are not specifically designated for donations.
April 15 Dinner Program
Location: United Methodist Church
Social: 5:00-5:45 PM Dinner: 5:45-6:30 PM Business Meeting: 6:30-7:00 PM Program: 7:00-8:00 PM
MENU: Lasagna, tossed salad and garlic bread, plus 70th Birthday cake
Food Chair: Jan Hill
MENU: Lasagna, tossed salad and garlic bread, plus 70th Birthday cake
Food Chair: Jan Hill
Cost: $15.00
RSVPs: RSVP to Deanna Ensley by the end of Saturday, April 6. Call/text 360-333-0228 or email deannaensley@yahoo.com
TOPIC: Reif Performing Arts Center Update
PRESENTER: Shantel Dow, Executive Director
We are so pleased to have Shantel Dow, Executive Director of the Reif Center, speak and give us an update on the newly renovated center.
Each year the Reif Center of Grand Rapids hosts more than 50 national and international touring performances representing a diverse range of artistic disciplines, including classical music, country music, artists, rock tributes, classical and contemporary dance, musical theater, children’s theater, comedy and more. In addition, it is home to the Grand Rapids Players, the Reif Dance program and the Itasca Symphony Orchestra, and hosts many other local musical, dance and artistic events. With the new renovations expanding and enhancing the lobby and art gallery areas, the addition of a second stage with the Mary Ives Studio Theater, and renovation of the Wilcox Theater, the Reif is even better able to fulfill its mission of stimulating the arts in northern Minnesota.
May 20 Dinner Program at Ruttger’s
Food choices TBD. Exact times for the program and dinner will be announced at April’s meeting and in the May Timberline newsletter.
Food Chair: Marj Lavalier
Cost: $30.00 for dinner and dessert
We look forward to meeting this year’s AAUW Anniversary Scholarship recipient at our May program. We will also hear from Madeline Cook of North in Bloom.
April BIRTHDAYS - Best Wishes!
3 – Ellen Edvenson 4 – Margaret Barrick 6 – Kay Erickson
13 – Pat Mahoney 15 – Jean Halverson 17 – Emilie Zasada
20 – Marsha Miller 28 – Jeanne Crosby-Hill
20 – Marsha Miller 28 – Jeanne Crosby-Hill
AAUW State Convention, April 26-27, Grand RapidsSign up by April 10. See registration form and workshop descriptions (attached to this email).
The convention is right around the corner and the deadline for registration is April 10. We encourage all AAUW members to show their support as we are so fortunate to have the convention in our own backyard.
The presenters are inspirational and informative and they will be speaking on issues pertaining to the core values that AAUW stands for. There are numerous workshops on Saturday afternoon and you will have a hard time choosing just 2.
Our member, Cathy Davies will be one of the workshop presenters, speaking on women that she has met while traveling in 51 countries by motorcycle!
There's a wonderful "Garden" themed silent auction at the convention with the proceeds going to LAF (Legal Action Fund).
Dr. Zoe Spencer who is a current plaintiff in an LAF-supported case against Virginia State University will be our featured speaker.
Note: Friday evening is a dressier event so this is your chance to enjoy a night out in your finest apparel.
WHY ATTEND STATE AAUW CONVENTION?
By Nancy Raymond
In the past I've attended conventions in Duluth (2 times), Faribault, Winona, Minneapolis (2 times), and Rochester. Attending these conventions you really understand that we are part of something bigger. To hear speakers from Washington, DC, and know they are working so hard for women is so inspiring. I especially enjoyed hearing the stories from LAF professors (Legal Advocacy Fund). Our dollars are huge in their legal fights for fairness, but our name, AAUW, holds a lot of weight.
In addition I've loved the optional activities. In Minneapolis, we had a docent take us to the Minneapolis Institute of Art and give us an excellent sample of the "best" pieces of art. In Winona, we attended a reception at the Minnesota Marine Museum and saw the works of O'Keeffe and Picasso. In Duluth, we had appetizers in the Glensheen mansion.
In addition I've loved the optional activities. In Minneapolis, we had a docent take us to the Minneapolis Institute of Art and give us an excellent sample of the "best" pieces of art. In Winona, we attended a reception at the Minnesota Marine Museum and saw the works of O'Keeffe and Picasso. In Duluth, we had appetizers in the Glensheen mansion.
Now hosting in Grand Rapids, we can share with the state our Forest History Center and Timberlake Lodge. I hope you can come. You have the choice to just attend the convention for $65 and eat at home, or come for $125 and have Timberlake feed you. It will be great either way. Many of you are volunteering to help with registration or contributing to the Silent Auction...we thank you. We are one of the most active branches in the state so let's show them who we are and where we live.
** INTEREST GROUPS **
EXPLORING OUR COMMUNITY
Join members for field trips to various places of interest.
Join members for field trips to various places of interest.
LITERATURE – Monday group
Group meets on 1st Monday at 10:00 AM at Grand Rapids State Bank Annex. Contact is Nancy Salmi, 326-3147 or nsalmi@earthlink.net
April 1: No Ordinary Time by Doris Goodwin; Discussion Leader is Nancy Salmi.
April 1: No Ordinary Time by Doris Goodwin; Discussion Leader is Nancy Salmi.
LITERATURE – Wednesday group
This group meets at 10:30 am on 2nd Wednesday, Grand Rapids Area Library River Room, September-May. Contact is Barbara Zimmer, 327-0911 orkbzimmer@q.com
This group meets at 10:30 am on 2nd Wednesday, Grand Rapids Area Library River Room, September-May. Contact is Barbara Zimmer, 327-0911 orkbzimmer@q.com
April 10: Flames of Discontent by GaryKaunonen
May 8: IGen: Why Today’s Super Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Happy -And Completely Unprepared for Adulthood--And What That Means for the Rest of
Us by Jean M. Twinge. We will choose next season’s titles.
PUBLIC POLICY
The group meets on the 2nd Thursday, 3:30-5:00 pm, at KAXE Radio meeting room.
The next meeting is April 11.
The next meeting is April 11.
This year we are learning about the Minnesota and U.S. policies that foster the high cost of post high school education. We are pushing for the Minnesota state policies that affect the public college and technology educational opportunities. This covers a large number of state colleges, such as Bemidji State U, U of M and 2-year colleges such as our local Itasca Community College.
Everyone is encouraged bring information from newspapers, magazines and books as well as public meetings and lecture opportunities, etc.
All members are urged to go online to learn about what is happening at the MN Legislature that relates to AAUW’s Public Policy agenda. Also see our little blue membership directory for national priorities and goals. MN AAUW Public Policy VP Jan Carey, jmcfree@aol.com tracks the current work of MN Legislature bills.
QUESTIONS: Call Jean Halverson, 327-9158, or Marilyn Rossman 326-6775, or Jan Bilden, 492-4129.
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.
THREE GREAT SUMMER PROGRAMS!
THANKS to Juliet Jones for arranging three great summer outings! More details later on RSVP requirements.
Monday, June 17, 11:00 AM
Tour the KMDA: Little Iron Range Fishing Tackle Company that ships outdoor gear from fishing lures to camping equipment worldwide. The company is at 218 8th Ave in Bovey. Note: One of our members who had toured the place said it was so interesting. KMDA also owns Hollywood Bait across the street and we will tour both facilities. Our tour guide is a retired teacher and mother of the boys who began this business--Joyce Vekick. We will eat lunch at Nana Chelle's Cafe in Bovey.
Monday, July 15, 11:00 AM
Take a tour of Kelly G's Wild Rice Burgers made in Bovey. We will tour the factory, which is run entirely by women. They will serve us lunch at no charge.
Monday, August 26, 3:00 PM (DATE CHANGE to 4th MON)
Meet at John Zasada's studio for his presentation of birch bark ornaments and other amazing designs he has created. He has a very interesting studio--with a story! His wife, Emilie, is an AAUW member. We will either have refreshments at the Zasada's or at Juliet's.
FINANCE REPORT FOR GRAND RAPIDS AAUW BRANCH
January – March 2019 - THIRD Quarter Financial Summary - Fiscal Year 2018-2019
(Based upon 03.13.2019 Bank Statement): Prepared by Cheryl Vogel; Finance Committee Review & Approval Pending
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v 97 paid members - 89: MOB; Dual: 3; Lifetime: 5
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v Total Income Third Quarter: $ 1,427.84 Dues: $85; Dinner Fees: $1,280; Individual Donations: $35; Travel Treasures: $27; Checking Account Interest: $0.84.
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v Total Expenses Third Quarter: $ 2,499.34 National Dues: $59; State Dues: $9; Dues Refund: $85; Newsletter & Printing: $07.37; Dinner Expenses: $1,941.78; Meeting Room Rental: $75; Misc. Expenses: $167.23; Savings Account Deposit: $100.
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v Year-to-Date Net Revenue: ($7,749.05) Loss is consistent with Budget
The YTD loss is due to:
o Depositing $3,000 into State Conference checking account;
o Depositing $100 into Savings Acct to keep it active and avoid monthly service charges.
o Donating $1.000 to AAUW National: AAUW Education Fund: $500; AAUW Legal Advocacy Fund.
o $5,903 Dues payments for 2018-2019 were collected during the previous fiscal year.
o Eventually, a portion of the dues for fiscal year 2019-2020 will be collected during this fiscal year, which should offset most of this fiscal year’s losses.
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v YTD Total Donations in Fiscal Year 2018-2019: $1,140
· $1,000 – AAUW Funds (Legal Advocacy Fund: $500; Educational Fund - $500).
· $140 - Second Harvest Food Shelf – Monday AAUW Book Club.
· Board Decisions regarding Local 2019 AAUW Scholarships (Future Expenditures):
o Community Foundation: 2 - $1,000 Scholarships;
o Itasca Community College (ICC): 2 $1,000 Scholarships (one with a focus on STEM).
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COMBINED STATUS OF DEDICATED FUNDS: $ 65,811.09
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: $32,650.09
· GRACF (Endowed Fund): $31,081.98; GRACF (Non-Endowed Fund): $ 1, 568.11
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Total Cash on Hand – $ 7,758.59 03.2019
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Checking Account
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$ 4,785.19
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Savings Account
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$ 1,704.94
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State Convention Checking Account
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$ 1,268.52
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AAUW GRAND RAPIDS BOARD MEETING
March 11, 2019, United Methodist Church
Members present: Deanna Ensley, Jan Miland, Nancy Raymond, Elaine Thorstenson, Karen Karls, Cheryl Vogel, and Helen Ahlbrecht.
Nancy moved, Elaine seconded, passed to approve the December 10, 2018 minutes.
Cheryl presented a detailed treasurer's report, which included the state convention information. Sonia Larsen audited the treasurer's books on January 3, 2019 and found them to be very accurate and complete as usual.
Committee reports were given.
There are no new members at this time.
The fundraising is now called Funds Chair. Nancy will announce the April book sale at the March meeting.
Elaine will take care of having a 70th anniversary cake at the April meeting. She announced that the Christmas party is set for Monday, December 12, 2019, at the Eagles. She is also working on the food committees for the 2019-2020 year. A discussion was held about how we can acknowledge long-time members. Maybe pay for their meals, give rides or recognition at a meeting.
Juliet has the summer programs all arranged. Elaine will make sure we have refreshments.
In old business, the state conference registration forms were discussed. They are not user-friendly; Deanna and Cyndy did their best, but some things were changed later.
Jan Hill is assembling a garden basket, with items donated by our members, for the state convention silent auction.
All the board members have their convention assignments.
Our members are encouraged to go to the state convention. It's a wonderful opportunity to learn more about things such as the national legal aid fund. There are good workshops to attend and it can cost as little as $65 if one doesn't eat meals there.
Grand Rapids branch members are encouraged to pay yearly dues at the April meeting along with the payment for the May meeting, which will be held at Ruttger’s.
Respectfully submitted,
Jan Miland, Secretary
AAUW GRAND RAPIDS PROGRAM MEETING
March 18, 2019, United Methodist Church
The monthly meeting of the Grand Rapids Branch of AAUW was held on March18, 2019, at the United Methodist Church. Co-president, Deanna Ensley welcomed everyone.
The nominating committee presented this slate of officers to be voted on in April, treasurer, Cheryl Vogel, co-program chairs, Julie Skallman and Marge Domish.
The April meeting will include a book sale and the 70th anniversary branch celebration.
The yearly dues of $85 can be paid in April along with the May reservation money for the dinner at Ruttger’s.
Juliet Jones has the summer program set and Elaine Thorstenson will be calling for food committee assignments.
The excellent speakers for the evening were Deanna's very talented son, Derek Fox, an engineering professor at ICC, and Crystal Smith also an engineering professor at ICC.
Respectfully submitted,
Jan Miland, Secretary
ADVANCING EQUITY FOR WOMEN & GIRLS – FOR MORE INFORMATION
AAUW MINNESOTA www.aauwmn.net
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