Hello to you – and the beautiful fall I’m sure you’re enjoying. Our first meeting was a celebration of the Tech Trek campers. The girls shared their very positive experiences at camp. Moving into October, our general meeting on October 9 is an anticipated presentation by previous member, Cindy Smith, on her experience with glaciers. Our second “main event” is the upcoming Member Soiree. The event has expanded from just new members to all of you coming with a potential member to learn about AAUW and our branch. We will gather on Thursday, October 16, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. at Rose Olson’s party barn for festive food and drink – including wine. More information will be coming from Lynda Buehring.

We have been known for many years as the organization that hosts the Candidate and Issues Forum. This year is a local election year and only four positions are being voted on: Stanwood Mayor, Stanwood City Council and our Stanwood-Camano School Board. It has been decided by general consensus at our September general meeting that we will pass this year due to lack of leadership to make it happen and required time to make it successful.

As Branch President, my third focus is the number of members being actively involved in our branch. As you know, an organization exists and evolves only if the members are involved to keep it active and growing. Presently, a few members do much of the work. There are many opportunities to participate in the activities that are designed for fellowship and those designed for service. Please find articles throughout this newsletter about branch activities: Book Group, Java Break, Movie Group, Day Trippers, and Purses with Purpose.

When I think of our membership, the women who joined did so because they have a college degree and have enjoyed a work life and a personal life filled with activities that bring them joy. All of us have talents and abilities to bring to our branch. We need you! One of the ways you can become involved is to join the Hospitality Committee. We had this committee for several years and then it was dropped when we weren’t meeting in person. Recently, the Program Committee has asked for savory and sweet treats at our monthly program/meetings. Sometimes there are few and some times there are sooo many refreshments. Our organization needs to get organized and not leave a welcoming treat up to chance. Please help create the Hospitality Committee and enjoy other members of our group.

Looking forward to seeing you at the October 9 general meeting and the Member Soiree!