On Sunday, February 8th, we'll be watching the 2007 film, Starting Out in the Evening.  Here's a summary and review:

 

 

Our local branch continues its focused, active role in the community thanks to our diverse go-getting members. Inside this newsletter, you'll read of the outstanding work of our active Public Policy Committee, the activism (yes!) of the Daytime Book Group, and the varied programs our members have planned for spring. And, we welcome back Program Vice President Bette Nitzky, who took a brief leave of absence. We are so delighted you were able to come to the January planning meeting, Bette.
 
The branch holiday activities deserve a round of applause for the projects we accomplished in the busy cold season.

• Joan Davis, Legal Advocacy Fund chairperson, once again organized the fundraising Gift Wrapping at the Mall. Too many to name here contributed time and wrapping talents. Many thanks.
  
• At our Winter Party, members brought in more than fifty gifts of warm clothing and toiletry for the women and children in the Battered Women's Shelter. And, we raised more than fifty dollars for the Educational Fund.
• Arlene Bruck, Diversity chairperson, once again coordinated Holiday Gift purchase cards for ten ESL students and their families.
• New Branch Member and Kingston Library Director Margie Menard, Christ the King Church member Ron Basten, and I worked together delivered more than one hundred children's coats, boots, hats, mittens and scarves donated and collected by the Marbletown Elementary School community to People's Place just before the zero degree weather hit. Peter, the manager of People's Place, told us these articles were really needed and appreciated. They welcome any contributions.

 And, many thanks to Marjorie Regan for her continuing work in overcoming prejudice and racism. Marjorie arranged our speaker for the Winter Luncheon and is acting as liaison with the Hodge Center for a new educational mentoring program. More about that next month.
 
I am proud to be part of an organization actively advocating and working to compassionately meet local needs. See you at Deising's on Feb. 21.

Garnette

While reminiscing about AAUW, women often mention other members with whom they worked. Some names came up repeatedly. I'd like to acknowledge a few of them who were still active when I joined in the 70's.

Frieda Dingeel (President 1945-46) participated in many community organizations. A tireless worker, she became the first woman principal in the Kingston Consolidated School System and designed and supervised the district's original remedial reading program. June picnics at her camp in Lake Katrine were often mentioned.

Betty LeFever (President 1946-48) was an active member until her death. Dedicated to education, she was instrumental in the establishment of Ulster County Community College. Because of her involvement, AAUW had a study group, which made recommendations.

Helen Ann Robbins (President 1957-59) used her connections to national AAUW to help the local College Women's Club make the transition to the Association. Many remember her for her scholarly strong opinions and for Book Club Meetings at the Robbins Library.

Adelaide Van Wagenen, although never president of AAUW, was a vital part of the organization. Always quick to volunteer, her enthusiasm was contagious. As membership chair, she enrolled most of the faculty at Chambers School as branch members. Adelaide currently lives in an assisted living facility in Florida.

These are just four women among many who are

Feb. 17,2009, The Known World by E. P. Jones. Before the Civil War, a black slave buys his freedom and then buys black men to work for him.

March 17, 2009, The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton. This heroine in early 20th century New York has no fortune and is unable to find her place in the upper .level of society. Fictional depiction of the rigid class system of the time.

Change: April 21st, 2009 Vivi Hlvasa's Community Wide Selection : Stories by Andrea Lee

For more information call Marjorie Regan

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