Martha Washington Questers No. 1032

Virginia Reighard was hostess for the May 27 meeting of Questers. President Marilyn Whitenack welcomed guest Jennine Wolf and opened with trivia from the program “The Mo You Know.” Research on subject “What’s for Breakfast” shows the five food most eaten through early times were waffles with sugar or molasses, Thomas English muffins (still using the original name given), French toast originating in France, grape juice which was first used and served by witches in 1875 and pancakes introduced in 1880 as “Aunt Jemima.”

The invocation was recited and roll call taken showing eight members and one guest present. The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved, and Treasurer Janet Peterson reported the balance after all dues being paid to the state.

Marilyn then showed memorabilia about a visit to Titanic and displayed jewelry which she purchased in support of Questers.

In new business, the group voted and all approved a new slate of officers for the 2022-23 year. The following will serve: Jane Fehr, president; Linda Newlon, vice president; Connie Pence, secretary; Virginia Reighard, treasurer; Martha Russell, historian.

Sally Beezley will be contacted and asked to prepare the new program books. A signup sheet was passed for meeting assignment, programs, etc. Dates to remember are June 25 Quester Summer Tour in Spirit Lake; Fall Fling Sept. 30-Oct. 1. If anyone is interested, sign up to work in the Quester booth during the Iowa State Fair. Dorothy Miller motioned to adjourn the meeting.

Virginia gave a program on Eureka Springs, Arkansas, where she has vacationed many times over the years. It is sometimes known as Little Switzerland.

She told us interesting facts of the area and opportunities offered to tourists. The town is very old and the area dates back to prehistoric times.

The Cherokee Indians there were known as “Rock Shelter” People, the area of mountains, rocks, hills and stone.

White settlers eventually were drawn there to enjoy the natural fresh water healing herbs for medicinal use. Businesses and buildings were built all the way up the mountain, retaining walls being used everywhere. Many have entrances on different levels to the same building as you go up the hill.

This town is known for having streets laid out in very unusual patterns and also the crookedest streets imaginable, hardly ever straight or square.

The Passion Play is a well-known place to visit, along with the beautiful all-glass cathedral which still is in use for special events and services. Trollies are used and available for tourists and residents to get around.

Refreshments were served by Martha Russell. We will meet June 23 at 10 a.m. in the parking lot of the Methodist Church to go on our outing to Van Buren County, Bonaparts Retreat for lunch and Cantril. This is the last meeting of the summer.