February 13, 2020 Minutes

The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by President Naomi Hansen.

Minutes: the minutes from the January meeting were reviewed. It was noted that the elementary school principal’s name is spelled Schwarz. Joanne moved to approve the minutes as corrected, Heidi seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Treasurer’s Update: The checking account balance is $3,040.85. Jeannette reported that all the scholarships have been paid out. Two thank you letters were receive; one from ELCA Good Gifts for the $300 donation, and one from the Blooming Prairie Backpack Program for the $450 donation. The treasurer’s report was accepted for audit.

Committee Reports:

Program Committee: Our March meeting will be given by Deb Gillard on dementia. It will be held in the Fireside Room at First Lutheran Church at 7 p.m. Jeannette offered to bring snacks; members are encouraged to bring their own beverages.

It was suggested that further publicity might be done for this program to invite the community to participate. Suggestions included a flyer, an event reminder in the Community Calendar in the Times, and asking Becky Noble to announce it on the radio.

Scholarship Committee: Heidi and Mary Worke will look at the scholarship process and information needed. This will be coordinated with getting the photos of students who are awarded AAUW scholarships.

Old Business:

Branch grant: Naomi reported that there are several grants available from AAUW Minnesota for projects to further equity for women and girls. She offered to apply for a grant, but it was noted that the deadline had passed. We will revisit this next year when applications are again taken.

New Business:

100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment: Nancy noted that she had attended an AAUW program in Owatonna about the women in Minnesota who fought for passage of the right of women to vote. This is a possible program for Blooming Prairie, as well as the showing of the movie Iron-Jawed Angels. Further ideas are welcome.

Nominating Committee:  The positions open this year are Program Committee and Treasurer. Jeanette agreed to continue as treasurer. Mary and Beth are willing to continue in the programming position if suggestions from members are given to them. More discussion will take place. Jean and Karla offered to serve on the nominating committee if there is a need for one.

Scholarship Committee: Liza and Naomi are no longer on the committee, but Heidi and Joanne will continue this year. Two other members are needed for this group. The awarding of scholarships will take place the second Wednesday in May.

Announcements: None

The meeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

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