Speaker tells Fortnightly Club of sewing projects

NORTH ENGLISH — The December meeting of the North English Fortnightly Women's Club was held Wednesday, Dec. 11 at the home of Susan Elwood. Amy Andreassen and Renee Allison hosted the meeting.

Guest speaker Mary Husband explained how she “sews for a purpose.“ She shared some of the many items she makes for the University of Iowa Hospitals and other facilities — port pillows, fidget pillows, surgical hats, cardholders, positional pillows and prayer blankets.

Seventeen Fortnightly members answered roll call by recalling a unique piece of fabric and giving the guest speaker pieces of fabric to use for her projects.

Nancy Evans shared a reading by Maya Angelou that Angelou had read at the December 2005 White House Christmas tree lighting.

Andreassen shared news about Marissa Allison’s chili meal she’s hosting to raise funds for students in Africa. The club voted to donate $50 to the fundraiser.

Huber said the Club received a thank-you from the English Valleys History Center for Helen Bucher’s memorial donation.

The treasurer’s report showed that a silent auction brought in $1,036 and another $80 came in the form of dues.

Expenses included $10 for the Care Center Bingo, the cost of Gae Wofford (September speaker) and Helen’s memorial donation, bringing the balance to $2,168.13.

Huber said the Club received a request from PACE for a donation. The Club voted to give PACE $250 to PACE.

Carolyn Elwood shared the News Flash — an article from the Hometown Current titled, “Gratitude Helps Maintain Hearth Health and Self Confidence.”

Linda Lee said that she’d undergone her 25th chemo treatment and is doing very well. Pat Denison said 21 Care Center residents played Bingo this year.

Members were served refreshments and cookies from Jaarsma Bakery.

There will be no meeting in January. Members are to bring four or five Valentines to the February meeting.