LoW W.I . gives 487.5 volunteer hours

Rebecca Wood
LoW Women’s Institute

On September 8th, 7 members met at the home of Asta Westberg. At roll call, members noted some of the achievements of the Women’s Institute.
Many things people take for granted were started by the Women’s Institute. The Women’s Institute once lobbied the government to require the pasteurization of milk; wrapping bread, putting “STOP” signs on railway crossings. W.I. members do not just sit around drinking tea and chatting. There is serious work still to be done. The tea comes later.
At the commencement of the meeting,”Pennies for Friendship” were donated and volunteer hours were calculated. Our branch has given 487.5 hours over the summer. The meeting opened with the Institute Ode, minutes from the last meeting were read and approved. The financial report was given.
The summer was a very busy one. The food booth at the Rainy River Centennial celebrations was a success and we all enjoyed the sunny day. Marjorie was instrumental in selling a lot of quilt tickets, but there are still plenty left, so make sure you get some from one of our members.
The Branch hosted the Chili Cook Off for Bergland Fun Day on Aug. 8. The day brought a lot of people together for a simple good time, and raised $4,350+ for the Canadian Cancer Society.
The W.I. Museum Board continues to work on plans for renovations to the Museum in Emo. There were over 2,000 visitors signed in for the period of June to the end of August. The “Help Us” donation jar brought in over $300.00, but the Museum will require much more.
Four cement flower pots were delivered to the Bergland Cemetery and set in place by Lowes. Margaret and Becky planted them and appreciated the assistance of Fred Brett, Mike Stenger, Elders Young and Stevens.
Ellen won the door prize and lunch was provided by Asta.
The October meeting was held at the home of Ellen Chojko-Bolec on the 13th with 8 members, 1 new member and one guest, Louise Brett, answering roll call. The Branch is very pleased to welcome new member Mary Bottenfield.
The meeting opened with the Mary Stewart Collect; Pennies for friendship were donated and volunteer hours were added. The minutes of the last meeting were approved and the financial report was given.
Our Museum has closed for the season and a successful Fall Luncheon was held on Oct.8th. The next regular Board meeting will be held on Nov. 3rd at the Museum at 7pm.
Reports were given on the Area Convention and the ROSE Workshop.
Our Branch quilt ticket sales have been good.
We will once again buy and place a wreath at the Legion’s cenotaph on Remembrance Day.
The Bergland Hall kitchen equipment list is still being discussed.
Our meeting was adjourned at 9:40pm and our guest won the door prize. Hostess Ellen served a tasty lunch and had small gifts for everyone.