Morson W.I. meets in Emo

By Nancy Miller
Morson W.I.

Morson Women’s Institute recently met with 13 members at the Pioneer Museum in Emo. The museum is run with support from the Women’s Institute branches in the Rainy River District. This was the first opportunity for some of the members to see the recent progress in development of the various “period” rooms. Some of the rooms are set up like a home of yesteryear with antique wood cook stove, cooking utensils, dishes, cabinets and house ware. One area is set up like a general mercantile store with antique clothes, can goods and food stuffs. One room is dedicated to the fire victims from the community of Dance. The museum committee worked with authors Harl A. Dalstrom and Kay Calame’ Dalstrom titled “We Were Not Worried at Dinner Time” that includes history of the Dance community fire and other fires in the region. Proceeds from the book sale will benefit the museum.
President Carol Pratt started the meeting with roll call and volunteer hours since the last meeting. Those present had logged 184 volunteer hours. The door prize went to JoAnn Moen. Rosemay Laevens read a report of highlights from the North Western Ontario Women’s Institute conference. A review about the value of the country wide Women’s Institute branches started the event. Highlights were given on the new strategic plans for the provincial oversite of the organization. These plans include suggestions submitted by area branches. Progress is being made to digitize all histories collected via the Tweedsmire History books with the Ontario Geneological Society. Digitizing these histories will allow others to use the information for historical research.
In correspondence a letter to Tammy Lafreniere for her help in organizing the food booth for the Morson Bass International was read. The Morson Tourism Association membership renewal letter was approved. A tax receipt from the River Side Foundation for $200 was received. Members voted to donation $300 to bring the donation for the new imaging altrasound to $500. Members voted to contribute $400 to the township for upkeep of the Morson Hall.
Members were reminded of upcoming events. Swedish Embroidery on October 17th in the Bergland School. Those interested should contact Ruth Brett. The Fall Luncheon is Friday October 23rd at the United Church in Emo. Sandwiches, soup and baking are needed for the event. Proceeds go to the museum. Baked goods and Crafts are needed for the Holly Days tables at the Legion in Emo December 5th. The Morson Community Christmas Potluck is scheduled for Saturday December 19th.
After the meeting a live auction with auctioneer Barb Zebleckis was held. This year’s theme was remembering items and terms that are no longer used by members. Gone are 8 track tapes, corsets, garters and hairpins to hold hats. Auction items are gift wrapped to hide their identity but Barb with her ESP gives a suggestion on the contents of the package to encourage bids. The next meeting will be December 3rd at the Morson Hall.