Not only is it the beginning of a new year, it is a time when people set goals.
Well, the Piecemakers have begun the new year with just that. Installed as new Co-Presidents, Esther Meinhardt and Barbara Rule-Mispel have made it their goal to continue with the good job Mary Shara, president for the past two years, has done.
Wanting to meet the needs and maintain the interest of present members as well as new members, members were asked to share their thoughts and ideas for the chapter.
One of the most noted activities mentioned was the "Charity Quilts" for the Vets. This activity has been ongoing for years and the members look to continue and improve their efforts by setting aside the third Tuesday of each month to work on these quilts. Quilts may still be worked on at home but it is felt more will be accomplished with a specific time set aside for the activity.
Along the same lines, the members sought to continue with the "Block of the Month" activity. It was decided that this activity would occur four times a year - allowing for three months for the process of; drawing a winner from those interested, choosing, sharing, and -as appropriate -demonstrating the block chosen, members would then have sufficient time to create one or more of the block. Blocks would be turned in and the assembling done and shared at the end of the three month period.
The final activity of "Fat Quarter Drawing" also was assigned some changes. This will take place on the last Tuesday of each month. Those interested in participating would submit a fat quarter of their choice and purchase a ticket for $1.00. A drawing would then occur at which time people would be able to choose a fat quarter of their choice from those presented. This is thought to be a fund raiser to help cover the cost of items purchased at Christmas for the family in need "Charity" as well as the monies needed to continue with the "Sunshine" program.
It is also a goal to have demonstrations by the members often. The process of finding out what people want to have for presentations as well as what people want to offer has begun with a "Suggestion Box" placed on the sign-in table at the entry way to the room. This box will also be utilized for people to share questions, tips, and needs as well as presentation ideas.
Sadly the Chapter has, due to illnesses, etc., lost a few of its long-term members such as Beverly Reep , Gloria Martin, and Anne Tutolli. They will be dearly missed.
We are pleased to welcome our newest members: Barbara, Jan, and Sandy all joining this month.
It is because of illnesses and such that the "Sunshine" committee keeps pretty busy. It was reiterated that the closeness of our members is imperative to the positive climate of our group. Ida Hoover, who is chairing this, is the person to contact if you know of a member in need of some "Sunshine."
Our new secretary, Brenda Barkley, has offered to create a newsletter from weekly meeting notes. This will help to keep snowbirds, those traveling, ill, or otherwise unable to attend meetings, up on the latest happenings.
So as the first month of this new year nears its final days, we begin a year that is sure to be one of learning, sharing, and improving skills, maintaining and making new friendships and giving to our community.
