I find it difficult to leave summer behind, but the weather is reminding us that we’re in the autumn season now. November is a busy month with an election on the horizon. It’s imperative that we consider the Stanwood-Camano Schools candidates for school board thoughtfully. Many districts are finding their funds are woefully short, and school board members must make difficult decisions. Voting is a big part of our democracy, not to be taken lightly, so let’s get out and vote!

Our general meeting is November 9 at the Camano Center, 1 pm. with a dynamic speaker, Celeste Mergens, who is the founder of Days for Girls International. Her ideas and teams of volunteers have made school possible for young women and girls during menstrual periods. Small kits with supplies, hand sewn by volunteers, mean girls in developing countries aren’t excluded during this time, and their education can continue. Her book: The Power of Days is a story of courage and persistence. I encourage you to read it. I can’t wait to meet Celeste and hear about her journey for equality for young women with such a simple, profound idea.

I’m excited about the possibility of some free memberships available to the branch if new members join during an open-to-the-public meeting. Your branch board is working on an idea to make a few memberships available to those of all income levels. Thanks to Jackie DeFazio and Joanne Drewson for working on a plan for this in a timely manner to coincide with the National AAUW program of bonus memberships.

Finally, I hope your Thanksgiving celebrations will be grateful gatherings of friends and family for all that we are blessed with here in America.