Newsletter

January 2023                                               View as Webpage

Mission Statement


AAUW advances gender equity for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy.


In this issue:


Mission Statement

President's Letter

Dollars for Scholars-SUCCESS!!

General Meeting

Fashion Show Fundraiser

Membership Directory

Useful Links

Membership

Sharing and Caring

Carpooling

Scholarship Committee

Arizona Adventures

Girlfriends and More

Prescott Branch Women's Forum

AZ Legislature Day

Special Interest Groups

Branch Information


PRESIDENT'S LETTER



Beginnings could happen more than once and in different ways." Rachel Joyce

 

As we start 2023, I feel us evolving; keeping the best of our practices and finding new paths to walk as we plan our Northwest Valley work and outreach. Our Branch members stepped up to the Dollars for Scholars Challenge Grant and made it happen! The Scholarship committee is brainstorming new ways of reaching our students; our Fashion Show fund raiser is almost upon us, and the committee members are busily making the new venue work. As we continue to welcome new members to our Branch, our SIG groups welcome them to join, and they are stepping up to join us in our Branch work. New year, new month, new choices. See you in January! 

 

Karen Bunting, President 2022-23

To each and every member, “Thank you!”  Your generous giving to the matching fund challenge Dollars for Scholars, raised more than $10,000 for our scholarship fund. All of our email inboxes have been flooded with requests for donations, political and charitable. Despite these many competing pleas, you’ve given to AAUW, demonstrating your support of education, research, and advocacy for women. You have kept our mission statement front and center in our work. Our friendships, interest groups, programs, public policy work, and outreach make us a force in our community. 

AAUW-NWV

GENERAL MEETING

Thursday, January 19, 2023

9:00 a.m.

SCW Foundation Bldg, Webb Rm

14465 RH Johnson Boulevard,

Sun City West, AZ 85375


Denise Rosales and Heather Tracy from Native Art Market will tell us about their business in Old Town Scottsdale. They receive the highest ratings on sites such as Yelp and Trip Advisor and were just named Business of the Year in Scottsdale.


Denise and Heather plan to tell their story: how they went from a stand beside the highway leading into the Grand Canyon, to the only Indigenous-owned brick-and-mortar shop in Old Town Scottsdale. At both their indoor venue and their outdoor market (November-March) they demonstrate Native dance, teach about tribal customs, and showcase amazing craftsmanship from hundreds of Native Artists. 


See more on their webpage Native Art Market.


Annual Women’s Scholarship Fundraiser

“Trendy Fashion for Your Lifestyle”

  January 16, 2023

  Luncheon Event with Boutique Shopping


FOUNDATION ROOMS, 14465 RH Johnson Boulevard, Sun City West


Shopping 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM & after Luncheon


Luncheon 11:30 AM (with Theme Basket Raffle)


Paid reservations required by January 9th

       

Click here for Fashion Show flyer

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY


The 2023-2023 directory contains a treasure-trove of information. Contact Nancy Wilson to receive your copy.


A PDF version is posted on the Branch website in the Members Only (password-protected) section.

Directory 2022-2023 


Watch for Eblasts with updates and corrections to members' data.



USEFUL LINKS 


There is so much happening within our organization. Stay current on AAUW initiatives and activities at the National, State, and Branch levels:


AAUW National:  

https://www.aauw.org



AAUW Arizona State:  

https://www.aauwarizona.org


AAUW NWV Branch:  

https://northwestvalley-az.aauw.net

(Site is under renovation)


And check our Facebook page for posts of current news and

event photos

Facebook

MEMBERSHIP

Cindy Ferguson, Co-Chair

The Membership Committee will meet on January 12, 2023, to plan its new outreach campaign. Membership has slowed with fewer public, in-person recruitment opportunities than in the past. While we do attract potential members from our media coverage, particularly about our social activities, people often assume we are a social club and not a service organization. Therefore, the committee - and in reality, the branch - needs to identify new means to make the organization and its mission visible.


If you are affiliated with a group that might want to learn about AAUW and our branch, such as a community group, club, or neighborhood association, let Cindy know. 

We know of at least one other branch, similar in make-up to ours, that effectively promotes itself and recruits new members by offering non-members the opportunity to participate in some branch activities. Think about your SIG group and how it could combine one of its activities such as a book discussion, a hike, or a game night into a recruitment event.



You, the members, are our best ambassadors so please help us spread the word about the AAUW Northwest Valley branch.

Sharing and Caring


If you or anyone you know in our AAUW branch could use a word of encouragement, a thinking of you, or a sympathy card, please let me know. I would love to send them a card to let them know we’re thinking about them.


Send an email to Sheryl Saddoris.

INTERESTED IN CARPOOLING??


Our branch members come from several surrounding towns to attend our

meetings and events. 


If anyone is interested in carpooling,

please contact Cindy Ferguson

Scholarship Committee 

The Committee announces its newest scholarship recipient: Jenna Alcantar.

My name is Jenna Alcantar, and I am a freshman at Arizona State University. I enjoy meeting and talking to new people on campus, joining new clubs, and participating in intramural sports like volleyball and soccer. I also am passionate about volunteering with special needs programs throughout Arizona. Earlier this year I decided to major in Human Communication to pursue a career in higher education and networking to help low income and first-generation college students have the opportunity to study at a university. My biggest dream is to graduate from Arizona State University and to then get my master’s degree. I am so fortunate and blessed to be able to study at such a beautiful and amazing school. I make it my mission to help any student or peer struggling in their educational journey because if I can do it, so can they.


Next Scholarship Committee meeting is Jan 10 2023, at 1:30 p.m.

at the home of Lu Marchese.

EVENTS FOR ALL MEMBERS

ARIZONA ADVENTURES

Desert Botanical Garden

Friday, Jan 20, 2023


Arizona Adventures Chairs Rosemary Dougherty and Kate King were disappointed they had to cancel the December excursion to the Desert Botanical Garden. It's such a lovely environment they're going to try again.


The Garden is featuring a special installation titled Playing with the Stars: Rotraut. The event's description states:


"The bold and lyrical large-scale sculptures of the Rotraut will enliven the Garden trails while a selection of her paintings and small sculpture fill the Ottosen Gallery. Known around the world, and based in Arizona, Rotraut’s artwork explores the energy of the seasons and the relationship of nature with the sky, sun, and universe."


After strolling the grounds, we plan to lunch at Gertrude’s Restaurant, which is next to the Garden's Gift Shop.


If you are able to check out a free Cultural Pass to the Desert Botanical Gardens from your local library, please bring it along. RSVP to: Kate King or 623-546-4175; or Rosemary Dougherty or 623-780-8479.


[Attendees will gather at 9:15 by Aisle 14 next to the RHJ Library in Sun City West to organize drivers and riders and then leave at 9:30. Look for an Eblast before the event as a reminder.]

GIRLFRIENDS and MORE

West Valley Arts Council:

Lunchtime Theater

Thursday, Jan 26, 2023


Phoenix Opera Around the World!


Meet @ 10:30 a.m. In & Out Burger

Corner of Bell and N Civic Center Dr, Surprise


Stay in your seats and let Phoenix Opera take you on a musical journey around the world: the excitement of New York City’s Broadway, the charm of Vienna’s Operetta, and

the passion of Italy’s Opera!


Starring: Artists of Phoenix Opera

Maestro: John Massaro

Hosted by: Gail Dubinbaum


• Venue: Arts HQ Gallery, 16126 N. Civic Center Plaza, Surprise, AZ.

• Time: Doors open 11:30 a.m., performance starts at noon.

• Reservations are required. Cost is $17.77 (tax included)


Attendees are encouraged to bring their own meal. (You can purchase a lunch item at In & Out Burger or BYO-Bag.)         


YOUR HOSTS: Rosemary Dougherty, Suzanne James, and Sharon Phelps


RSVP to: Sharon Phelps

or text 612-799-5474

BY JANUARY 19.

PRESCOTT BRANCH AAUW

AZ Women's Forum

January 27-28, 2023


The Prescott branch is hosting an exciting interactive symposium featuring inspirational speakers, panel discussions, live music, art show, book exhibit, meals, along with opportunities to meet with women who support educational choices for Arizona women. For details on the Forum, click here for the Branch Website.

SAVE THE DATE

AAUW Arizona Annual Legislature Day


February 23, 2023, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

The Historic Senate Chambers at the Arizona Capitol, 1700 W. Washington St.


Featuring a panel discussion: "How to Advocate Effectively for your Policy Priorities."

Guest panelists include:

  • Jodi Liggett - Founder of the Arizona Center for Women's Advancement - ACWA
  • Nicky Indicavitch - Statewide Outreach Directory at Save Our Schools Arizona
  • David Lujan - Former Arizona State Senator, current President & CEO of Children's Action Alliance

Come join us for a day to socialize and learn with fellow AAUW members from across the state on how to make your voice heard. 

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS (SIGs)
Co-Chairs: Linda StyrwollKaren Diaz

Check the Membership Directory (link) and

Eblast updates for addresses and phone numbers.

Monday Book Club

Meeting: 2nd Monday, 10 a.m.

(September-May)

 

Next meeting Jan 9, 2023, at the home of Sharon Phelps. Book: The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towels. Discussion leader: Sharon Phelps.


Contact: Diane Wilbur, 623.944.2666


**********************************

Open Book Club

Meeting: 3rd Monday at 2 p.m.

(September-April)

 

Next meeting is the FIFTH MONDAY, Jan 30, 2023, at home of Barbara Sausen. Book: The Lighthouse Road by Peter Geye. Anyone interested RSVP to Betty.


Contact: Betty Merwin


**********************************

Evening Book Club

Meeting: 3rd Tuesday, 7 p.m. at a member’s home


The Deborah Channell Memorial Book Group. Membership is limited to 12.    


Contact: Anne Burris623-640-4663

  

**********************************

Non-Fiction Book Club

Meeting: 2nd Wednesday at 6 p.m.

(All year round via Zoom)


Next meeting Jan 11, 2023. Book: Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know by Adam M. Grant.

 

To join the group, contact: Janet Murphy

  

**********************************

SnowBird Book Club

Meeting: In-person 1st Tuesday at 1 p.m. at First Citizens Bank (fka Citi Bank), 19432 N RH Johnson Blvd., SCW. Via Zoom 1st Wednesday at 10 a.m. (All year round)


Next meetings Jan 3 & 4, 2023. Book: The Guardian, by John Grisham. Same book for both meeting times.

 

Contact: Lorie Lux (for Zoom invitation) or Sharon Phelps 


**********************************

Great Decisions

Meeting: 2nd Tuesday at 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m.

(September-April) at First Citizens Bank (fka Citi Bank), 19432 N RH Johnson Blvd, SCW.


Next meeting Jan 10, 2023. Topic: “The War in Ukraine.” Discussion Leader: Bonnie Boyce-Wilson. For a copy of the Ukraine article being discussed contact Sharon Phelps or text 612-799-5474. A copy of the article will be sent to you.


Everyone is welcome to attend. BYOB; snack provided. 


Contact: Sharon Phelps


**********************************

Genealogy Gals

Meeting: 2nd Friday at 9:30 a.m. 

(October-April)

 

Next Meeting: Jan 13, 2023. "Discover Your Distant Roots." Scroll down for more information.


Contact: Ann Mitchell 


**********************************

Mexican Train


  • Group I: 1st Thursday at 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

Contact: Barbara McCart,623-330-5708.


  • Group II (January-April): 

Next meeting: Jan 11 at 1:00 p.m. at Sue Knippen's home.


Contacts: Sue Knippen, 419-692-8611 or

Sharan Paul307-660-8381


*********************************

Mah Jongg

Meetings: 2nd and 4th Thursdays, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

(November-April) 


Next meetings: Jan 12 at Judy Neigoff's home; Jan 26 at home of Tina Byrne.


Contact: Ellen Erickson, 701-741-6735

(Her Directory email is incorrect.)

Bridge


  • Meeting: 1st and 3rd Wednesday at 1 p.m.

Contact: Pat Riffle623-546-1254


  • Meeting: 2nd and 4th Wednesday at 1 p.m. 

Contact: Nancy Wilson623-252-7436


*********************************

Snowbird Bridge

Meeting: 1st and 3rd Friday at 1 p.m. 

(November-April)


Contact: Nancy Wilson623-252-7436


*********************************

Euchre

Meeting: 4th Monday, 1 p.m.

(September-April)


Next meeting Jan 23, 2023, at the home of Susan Hershberger.

 

Contact: Sheryl Saddoris

  

*********************************

Food and Wine I 

Meeting: 4th Wednesday at 4 p.m.

(October-April)

 

Next meeting Jan 25, 2023.


Contact: Marlene Gates, 623-556-4998 or

Kathleen Padula, 623-234-3993



Food and Wine II

Meeting: 3rd Wednesday at 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.

(October-April)


Next meeting Jan 18, 2023, at Saigon Kitchen in Surprise.


Contact: Jean Sturm


Food and Wine III

Meeting: 3rd Wednesday at 4 p.m.-6 p.m.

(All year round)


Contact Susan or Suzanne for information on January's meeting


Contacts: Susan Hershberger or 

Suzanne Lowe.


*********************************

Memories to Memoirs

Meeting: 1st Monday at 9:30 a.m.

(October-May)


Next meeting is the SECOND MONDAY: Jan 9, 2023, at the home of Lorie Lux. Prompt: "Have you changed your beliefs about anything? If so, how and why?"


Contact: Joye Kohl

.

*********************************

Women’s History

Meeting: 3rd Friday at 9:30 a.m.

(October-April)


Next meeting: Jan. 21, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. at the home of Joye Kohl.


Please join us if you are supportive of expanding the visibility and understanding of the role of women in history. 


For further info, please contact Joye Kohl or Debbie Hansen.


*********************************Hiking Club


The Hiking Club is doing 1-2 hikes a month. Annual Potluck dinner on Monday, January 23, 2023. Annual 4-day hike on April 24-27 to Green Valley and Medera Canyon. 


Hiking Club members receive emails with details on hiking activities. Interested in joining, contact Judy to be put on the list.


Contact: Judith Neigoff 


*********************************

Travel Club

Travel Club members receive email blasts about trips and trip ideas and can participate by planning and/or attending future trips. Interested in joining, contact Judy to be put on the list.


Contact: Judith Neigoff

Officers – 2022-2023


President - Karen Bunting

President Elect - Marge Whitman

Program VPs - Dorothy Alexander, Ronda Clark

Membership VPs - Cindy Ferguson, Linda Clancy

Finance VP (Treasurer) - Tina Byrne

Recording Secretaries - Kathleen Long, Deborah Engle

Corresponding Secretary - Rosemary Dougherty

Chairs and Appointees - 2022-2023

 

College Connection Team - Ann Mitchell, Joye Kohl

Directory - Nancy Wilson, Judy Neigoff

E-blasts – Marge Whitman

Event Coordinator - Rosemary Dougherty

Facebook Administrators - Joye Kohl, Fran Menzel, Nancy Wilson

Health Officer - Dale Maron

Historian - Marge Haberman

Hospitality/Greeters - Rosemary Dougherty, Suzanne James, Sharon Phelps

Newsletter - Marge Haberman. Doris Montrose

Photography - Rosemary Dougherty

Public Policy - Sharon Phelps. Suzanne Lowe

Scholarship Committee - Lu Marchese, Patt Bowers

Sharing and Caring - Sheryl Saddoris

Special Interest Groups - Karen Diaz, Linda Styrwoll

Technical - Karen Bunting, Marge Whitman

AAUW NWV Newsletter:  Nine issues published September thru May.  

**Newsletter deadline: 25th of the preceding month**


Submit all articles to Marge Haberman.  Reporters and photographers – we need your time and talent!


Format text in Microsoft Word and photos as Jpeg.