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The GFWC Woman's Club of Westminster, Inc.
2010 Archives
Monthly Newsletters
- January 2010 (PDF)
- February 2010 (PDF)
- March 2010 (PDF)
- April 2010 (PDF)
- May 2010 (PDF)
- June 2010 (PDF)
- July 2010 (PDF)
- August 2010 (PDF)
- September 2010 (PDF)
- October 2010 (PDF)
- November 2010 (PDF)
- December 2010 (PDF)
Club News & Press Releases
December 14, 2010: Christmas Luncheon and Holiday Silent Auction
Members of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, Woman’s Club of Westminster, met December 14 at the Elks Club in Westminster for a Christmas luncheon and a holiday silent auction which included baked goods, greenery, holiday décor, gifts for giving and gifts for members. Sandy Ferguson, chairwoman of Ways and Means Committee, and her members were the organizers of the various auction items.
Susan Case, program clubwoman, introduced Robyn Allers, First Lady of McDaniel College, with her presentation, “A View from the Hill” with her role as special liaison for community
relations. Her diverse background includes writing, teaching, acting, directing, producing as well as project management, public relations, and arts administration. Before moving to Westminster, she taught composition and creative writing at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida as well as managed community and public relations for the arts programs at the college. Most recently, she served for two years as interim director of the Cornell Fine Arts
Museum.
Ms. Allers shared her various discoveries in her great journey to this area after living in Florida. She highlighted the genuineness of the Westminster people with the acceptance of differences, the beautiful geography, and the sense of institutional pride at McDaniel College. The challenges of McDaniel College include the competitive environment, meeting the needs of students, and retaining the core values and commitments as well as being receptive to change. She commented on her role at the college as a combination of a professional and social woman who wants to work with the community especially in the cultural and intellectual areas. Her final thought was “a mind is useful only when it is open.”
Carol Kershner, club president, recognized Dawn Thomas and Joan Antonio for creating our beautiful Nutcracker Wreath for the Festival of Wreaths.
Picture Above: (left to right) – Carol Kershner, president of Westminster Woman’s Club; Robyn Allers, wife of McDaniel College’s president; Susan Case, program clubwoman.
Nancy James and Barbara Humbert of The GFWC Woman’s Club of Westminster received an historical print by clubwoman, Sallie Cartwright, which was framed by Lyndi McNulty, owner of Gizmos Art. The framed picture depicting the founding fathers of the U.S. Constitution was donated to the Carroll County Non-Profit Center in Westminster and will be displayed in the reception area.
Left to right – (Standing) Sandy Ferguson, clubwoman of Arts Community Service Program; Lyndi McNulty, owner of Gizmos Art; Barbara Humbert, co-chairwoman of Arts Community Service Program; Mark Krider, director of Carroll Non-Profit Center. (Sitting) Nancy James, co-chairwoman of Arts Community Service Program.
A "Staccato Moment" on Notable Women of Carroll County
Members of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, Woman’s Club of Westminster, met November 9 at the Carroll Non-Profit Center in Westminster. After an inspirational thought for the day on thankfulness by Judy Piel, Dr. Dawn Thomas presented a “staccato moment” on notable women of Carroll County. Dr. Thomas received her master’s degree in social studies and her doctorate from American University in Washington, D.C. Her career included teaching social studies in Carroll County middle schools and coordinating middle school social studies in both Howard and Montgomery counties. She co-authored a book on outstanding women of Maryland.
Dr. Thomas highlighted many outstanding women of the area which included community activists Mary Shellman (writer; social and political reformer), Dorothy Elderdice (playwright, drama teacher), and Gladys Wimert ( “Chats with Gladys” on WTTR). Other notable women were Dr. Elizabeth Reese Wilkins (family doctor), Vivian Eugenia (Punkie) Barnes (historian; conservationist), Thelma Wimmer (local historian), Dr. Grace Tracy (optometrist, historian), Thelma Richards (golf and trap shoot athlete), and Mary Lou Dewey (librarian; library advocate).
Top Picture: (left to right) – Carol Kershner, president of Westminster Woman’s Club and Dr. Dawn Thomas, clubwoman and speaker on Carroll County Notable Women.
Bottom Picture: (left to right) – New members Barbara Packard, Gerry O’Reilly, Renae Logsdail, Linda Mahin, and Becky Barbour.
“Wild Imaginings” of the Carroll County Public Library Sculpture Park
Members of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, Woman’s Club of Westminster, met October 12 at the Carroll Non-Profit Center in Westminster for a presentation on the “Wild Imaginings” of the Carroll County Public Library Sculpture Park by Lynne Wheeler, Director of Carroll County Public Library and Bart Walter, Sculptor.
After an introduction by clubwoman Jan Ober, the director presented background information on the extensive renovation of the Westminster library as well as the unveiling of Bart Walter’s “Wild Imaginings” in the library’s sculpture park. She indicated that the renovations to the library and the park were funded by the State of Maryland Public Library Capital Grant Program with matching funds from the Carroll County Commissioners. A community task force recommended more open space, new walkways, and a performance stage area which have been completed. Four sculptures by local artists will be purchased through private funding and the first one, “Wild Imaginings,” by world-renowned artist, Bart Walter, has been created. Walter shared his vision of this sculpture in a power point presentation from his trips to Africa where he observed and sculpted wild animals in their habitats. His underlining message was that we are all connected.
Picture Above: (left to right) – Lynne Wheeler, Director of Carroll County Public Library; Jan Ober, Program Clubwoman; and Bart Walter, Sculptor.
2010 WC of Westminster's International Outreach Community Service Program and SERRV International - September 27, 2010
The International Outreach Community Service Program of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, Woman’s Club of Westminster met at the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor September 27 to volunteer their services with SERRV in repackaging and pricing bulk goods for retail sale. SERRV International is a non-profit organization which promotes the social and economic progress of people in developing countries of the world by buying and marketing their crafts.
The International Outreach Community Service chairwomen, Sally Marks and Barbara Reiner, organized this project for the club with assistance of Mary Ann Grossnickle, volunteer services coordinator for SERRV. Other projects of the International Outreach group have included support for Heifer International, UNICEF, donations to CARE and two local dentists for their volunteer work in Central America as well as food donations to the local Food Sunday and smile dolls for Operation Smile. This service program allows clubs to reach beyond their own communities through education and global awareness. It is designed to enable members to become better world citizens through advocacy and action which will in turn affect change in and for our global friends.
Top Picture: (Seated, left to right) International Outreach Community Service Group – Sally Marks, co-chairwoman; Mary Lathroum, Lura Griswold,and Ginger Falcone. (Standing, left to right) Jo Harp, Barbara Reiner, co-chairwoman; Linda Payne, and Lois Gilbertson.
Bottom Picture: (Left to right) Sally Marks, co-chairwoman; Barbara Reiner, co-chairwoman; and Maryann Grossnickle, volunteer services coordinator for SERRV.
2010 Holiday Ornament from the Woman's Club of Westminster
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs, Woman’s Club of Westminster is selling holiday ornaments depicting local landmarks. This year’s ornament is “Baker Chapel” at McDaniel College in Westminster and the cost is $21.
In 1894, William G. Baker, a college trustee, donated money for the building of a college chapel. The donation was made as an offering of appreciation for the successful recovery of his son who had suffered a critical illness and surgery following his graduation as valedictorian of the class of 1894. In 1976, the chapel was placed on the National Historic Register. Over the many years since it was built, Baker Chapel remains a favorite site for weddings and concerts.
Ornaments of the chapel are being sold at the following locations: The Shop at Cockey’s, Village Book Store at McDaniel College, Carroll County Arts Council, Benn’s Mens Wear & Formal Wear, Harvestin’ Natural Foods, Westminster Armory, Westminster Antique Mall, Carroll Lutheran Village “Shop on the Square,” O’Lordan’s Irish Pub, and the monthly meetings of the GFWC Woman’s Club of Westminster.
410-848-3032.
Picture Above: (left to right) – Debbie Leister, gift shop manager of The Shop at Cockey’s and Sandy Ferguson, chairwoman of the Ways and Means Committee of the GFWC Woman’s Club of Westminster are holding the ornaments.
GFWC's Woman's Club of Westminster Meeting - September 14, 2010
Members of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, Woman’s Club of Westminster, met September 14 at the Carroll Non-Profit Center in Westminster for a business meeting to discuss plans for the upcoming 100th year of volunteer service with the theme, “Century of Service.” Carol Kershner, president, reviewed many social and economic aspects of that time period including the club history that began in 1911 as a literary club. The thought for the day by program committee chairwoman, Dolly Snyder, highlighted “The ABC’s of Life” which included accepting differences, being kind, and counting your blessings.
Jackie Hering, co-chairwoman of the education community service project, introduced Theresa Brecker, one of the scholarship winners for the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar. Theresa attends Westminster High School and was a previous GFWC Stars Juniorette. Candidates were selected by their respective high schools as sophomores and attended a seminar at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg. The purpose of the seminar was to teach these students how to think –not what to think. By exploring new ideas and serving others, they are encouraged to help our county meet the myriad challenges of the 21st century.
Picture Above: (left to right) Theresa Brecker, scholarship recipient; Education Community Service Program Co-Chairwoman, Etta Ray Griffin.
GFWC's Woman's Club of Westminster Clubwoman of the Year for 2010
Sharon Quinter has been named Outstanding Clubwoman for 2010 by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, Woman’s Club of Westminster. The award is based on an individual’s contribution to the club and community.
Sharon has been a club member since 2007 and served in various capacities on many committees and special projects at three levels of GFWC. Two of her accomplishments as co-chairwoman of the conservation program included organizing the first America Recycles Day for Carroll County with assistance of Lowe’s and the Carroll County Office on Recycling and sponsoring a Rain Barrels Workshop to emphasize the need to conserve water. Over 100 people attended and over 120 rain barrels were sold. In addition, she has led the conservation group in maintaining the garden at Belle Grove Square. Sharon has been Maryland’s representative at the Leadership, Education, and Development Seminar (LEADS) at the International Convention of the GFWC in Cleveland, Ohio. Currently, she is the newsletter editor and vice-president of the Westminster Club, vice-president of Western District, membership chairwoman of the Maryland Federation, and coordinator for the Maryland Federation’s conventions and events.
In addition to her woman’s club activities, Sharon is a volunteer at Carroll Hospital Center, a member of the hospital’s auxiliary board, and a member of the Carroll Garden Club. After retiring in 1997 as a vice-president of T. Rowe Price where she was manager of client communications and events for their retirement plans services division, Sharon became a consultant for a health care network in Howard County.
Picture Above: Sharon Quinter, left, is congratulated by Norma Jean Swam, Past President of the Woman’s Club of Westminster and GFWC First Vice-President Babs Condon for being Clubwoman of the Year for 2010.
GFWC's Woman's Club of Westminster Annual Potluck Picnic
August 31, 2010
Members of the GFWC Woman’s Club of Westminster enjoyed a lovely evening with their annual potluck picnic at the home of Lura Griswold on Tuesday, August 31. In addition to being our gracious hostess, she has served as past president from 1972-1974, volunteered on various committees, and will celebrate her 50 years of service next year. Other 50- year members present were Jeanne Herr, Betty Mathias, Jackie Hering, Sally Marks, and Pat Amass.
With primary elections approaching, our parliamentarian, Helen Wolfe, reminded the members of the 90th. Anniversary of Women’s Right To Vote. Wearing a purple banner signifying equality for women, she tested our memories on historical people, places, and dates.
Picture Above: Members who have belonged for 50 years:
(front/left – Jeanne Herr, Betty Mathias, Jackie Hering, and Sally Marks)
(back/left – Pat Amass and Lura Griswold)
Press Release: 7/19/10GFWC's Woman's Club of Westminster Aids The Shepherd's Staff Outreach and Support Center
The Education Community Service Program of the
General Federation of Women’s Clubs, Woman’s Club of
Westminster met at a member’s home July 19 to assemble school supplies and backpacks for The Shepherd’s Staff, a Christian outreach and support center. The Education Community Service chairwomen, Jackie Hering and Etta Ray Griffin, organized this project for the club to provide back-to-school donations for students in need. Other projects have included Books for Babies, Read Across Carroll County, Easter Literacy Baskets as well as library support, mentoring, and youth leadership seminars. This service program intends to improve literacy and education awareness in communities at home and around the world. Literacy is more than just an individual’s ability to read, it is an individual’s ability to read, write, speak, compute, and solve problems at levels of proficiency necessary to function on the job, in the family, and in society.
Picture Above: Left to Right - Pat Amass, Lynda Lockard, Barbara Groff, Barbara Shipley, Chairwoman Jackie Hering, and Chairwoman Etta Ray Griffin.
Memorial Day Parade
May 31, 2010
Lots of red, white, and blue adorned Main Street of Westminster on Monday, May 31st, as our Woman’s Club, Junior Woman’s Club, and the Juniorette Stars joined in the celebration. It was a huge success with banners, wreaths, miniature flags, convertible cars, and members with their families!
It was an honor and a privilege to have several past presidents participate in the parade. They were Babs Condon, Jo Harp, Jackie Hering, Sally Marks, Betty Mathias, Carol Shook, Jayne Stocksdale, and Helen Wolfe. Also, we would like to express our gratitude to the drivers of the sporty cars which included Gary Quinter, Keith Saylor, Jim Stocksdale, and Bob Payne. We want to thank the publicity committee members for all their time and effort. Let’s do it again!
Annual Spring Luncheon
May 11, 2010
Members of the GFWC Woman’s Club of Westminster, met May 11 for their annual spring luncheon at the Carriage House in Emmitsburg, MD.
After a call to order by President Norma Jean Swam, a moment in history by past president, Barbara Peck, was given. She recalled the color pink because of the numerous doll shows they organized to provide restoration funds for the Historical Society of Carroll County. Also, security guidelines in regard to children were highlighted during her presidency.
A fifty-year pin was presented to Barbara Hering and twenty-five-year pins were given to Dolly Snyder and Julia Hitchcock (member emeriti) for their dedication and service.
The current executive committee was recognized by the president with gifts of appreciation for their many efforts in the past two years.
Officers for 2010-2012 were installed by Babs Condon, GFWC Second Vice President.
They are as follows:
- President – Carol Kershner
- Vice President – Sharon Quinter
- Recording Secretary – Debbie Schaeffer
- Corresponding Secretary – Marge Simmons
- Treasurer – Barbara Gunther
In addition, advice, tips, and history of the club were given by many past presidents to the new president.
The guest speaker was Dr. Leona Sevick, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and Associate Professor of English at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg. Her presentation included an exposition of short stories by Willa Cather, an American author. Cather wrote about the uneasiness of life as a woman and a professional in the early 1900’s. She published a dozen novels and numerous poems, essays, as well as short stories.
Picture Above: (left to right) Norma Jean Swam, Club President 2008-2010; Babs Condon, GFWC Second Vice-President; Carol Kershner, Club President 2010-2012.
Press Release: 4/13/10
Women’s Club
Helps Haiti and Operation Smile
True to their motto, “Volunteer Locally –
Give Globally” the International Affairs Committee of the GFWC Woman’s Club of Westminster continued to support families and women in depressed nations across the globe. Most recently the group collected and packaged personal hygiene kits for people in Haiti and made comfort dolls for Operation Smile. During the past year the International Affairs Committee volunteered 786 hours and donated over $1300 to organizations worldwide. Monthly the group and other club women volunteer at SERRV in New Windsor. In 2009 the club raised enough money to donate a cow to the Heifer Project. The Committee is co-chaired by Sally Marks and Barbara Reiner. The GFWC Woman’s Club of Maryland is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, an international organization of volunteer women’s clubs dedicated to community service. The Westminster club is one of the largest in the State with over 110 members who volunteer for many organizations throughout Carroll County.
Picture Above: Members pictured making Comfort Dolls for Operation Smile are Marge Simmons, Ginger Falcone, Lura Griswold, Barb Reiner, Jackie Hering, Jo Harp, Sally Marks, Norma Jean Swam – President, GFWC Woman’s Club of Westminster, and
Linda Witter.
April 13, 2010 Meeting: Dr. Charles Ecker
Members of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, Woman’s Club of Westminster, met April 13 at the Carroll
Non-Profit Center in Westminster. After an inspirational quote from Danny Kaye by arts department chairwoman Carol Shook, the winner of the club’s short story and poetry contest was announced. Tenth grader, Hannah Thompson from Century High School, won with both her poem, “Summer Freedom” and her story, “Rainy Memories.” In addition, she was a finalist in the Random House Student Writing Contest and competed in the Maryland Federation of Women’s Clubs.
Club program chairwoman Jackie Finch introduced the guest speaker, Dr. Charles Ecker, Superintendent of Carroll County Public Schools. His presentation focused on the current status of our public schools in three areas – the size, comparisons with other school systems, and the challenges of budget restraints as well as workloads.
Following the program, department updates and committee reports were presented including the project, File of Life, by Dolly Snyder, public affairs chairwoman. Medical forms with information that would assist emergency personnel were distributed to members.