Festival of Trees – November 18, 2024

AAUW Flagler continued its tradition of participating in the Flagler County Public Library’s annual community-wide holiday celebration.  During the Festival of Trees event, local organizations are invited to set up trees or wreaths at the library that are representative of their mission.  There were over 40 trees and wreaths this year.  Decorations on our tree called attention to our 40th Anniversary as well as the 2024 scholarship recipients who help to highlight the mission of our branch.  Thanks to those members who helped to set up and decorate our tree.

General Meeting – November 9, 2024

Flagler County Superintendent of Schools LaShakia Moore was our guest speaker.  A product of the Florida public school system, Ms. Moore has a long and illustrious association with Flagler Schools, beginning her career as a teacher in Flagler County 15 years ago.  A 2004 graduate of Bethune-Cookman University, she earned her master’s degree in educational leadership from St. Leo University in 2017.  Working her way up through the ranks, the School Board unanimously appointed her Superintendent of Flagler Schools on September 5, 2023.

Ms. Moore shared insights into the 2024-2025 school year and answered questions from the group.  She also learned about opportunities AAUW provides to Flagler County students.

Just for Fun/Fundraiser – October 26, 2024

 

 

 

 

 

 

AAUW Flagler members participated in a fundraising event at the Fitzgerald Performing          Arts Center.  An enjoyable evening was held by all as we were entertained by                           three talented comedians.

 

General Meeting – October 19, 2024

Our first program of this new year was a presentation by the Volusia County League of Women Voters. League representatives Nancy Vaughn and Clay Meek shared a Power Point presentation on the proposed Florida constitutional amendments on the November 2024 ballot. Following the presentation, they answered our questions and clarified the amendments.

Reading Women Book Club – September 7, 2024

We met at Olive Garden for lunch and to select our Book List for 2024-25.

Reading Women Book Club – April 13, 2024

Reading Women meets monthly at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 156 Florida Park Drive.

General Meeting – April 6, 2024

 

Flagler County Supervisor of Elections Kaiti Lenhart prepared branch members for the 2024 election season with her presentation addressing voting by mail, early voting, election day voting, local candidates and election security.

 

Fashion Show Fundraiser – March 13, 2024

Our annual Fashion Show Fundraiser was held at Chez Jacqueline, a women owned boutique in Palm Coast. One hundred percent of the funds raised, $1,110.00, generated from the sale of event and raffle tickets, will benefit the AAUW Flagler Local Scholarship Fund.

Thank you to our models and members who participated through their attendance and donations.  Much appreciation to Chez Jacqueline for supporting local scholarships by providing the venue, fashions to model and refreshments at no cost to community organizations.

 

March 2024 Proclaimed AAUW Month in Flagler County

Supporting a Sister Branch – February 15, 2024

 

 

 

 

 

Members of our branch attended AAUW St. Augustine’s Black History Month program, The Blues and Beyond:  Exploring the Role of the Blues in the African American Experience.  The speaker, Dr. Scott Swann who holds a PhD in ethnomusicology from Florida State University, educated and entertained those in attendance at the historic Lincolnville Museum.

General Meeting – February 10, 2024

Black History Month ~ 40th Anniversary of Branch

 

Fine art photographer Lenny Foster enthralled members and guests with his visual storytelling.  His images tell the story of African Americans in St. Augustine and beyond.  He explained that his work “combines my fine art photography with a historic and social awareness of the continuing struggle for justice, equal rights, freedom, and recognition by the people who are my ancestors, my heritage.”

Currently a resident of St. Augustine, Mr. Foster owns Gallery One Forty Four in the city.  He previously lived in Taos, New Mexico where he owned and operated The Living Light Photography Gallery.  Lenny Foster’s work is widely exhibited in public museums and private collections.

 

We celebrated our 40th anniversary with a special cake and a look back in time through pages of a scrapbook documenting the beginning of our branch.  We were honored to have one of our founding members in attendance.

January 19, 2024 – In Memory of Queenester Jones

 

We sadly announce the passing of Queenester Jones, a long-time member of AAUW Flagler.  Queenester was a seasonal resident, spending the winters in Palm Coast and the summers in West Virginia.  Queenester was an active branch member, attending monthly General Meetings and State Conventions and holding leadership positions, the most recent being Co-Program chair.

Queenester Jones Obituary – Death Notice and Service Information (legacy.com)

General Meeting – January 13, 2024

 

Dr. Mary Gatta, Director of Research at the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) and Co-Chair Public Policy, AAUW Florida, shared brand new research on the impact of college career services on undergraduate women pursuing technology careers.  Specifically, she addressed how college career services can level the playing field for women in general and in particular for women pursuing tech careers.

General Meeting – December 9, 2023

The Flagler Palm Coast High School Formality Singers, under the direction of FPC Choral Director and AAUW Flagler member Ester Jackson, performed songs of the season.

November 13, 2023 – Festival of Trees

AAUW Flagler continued its tradition of participating in the Flagler County Public Library’s annual community-wide holiday celebration.  During the Festival of Trees event, local organizations are invited to set up trees or wreaths at the library that are representative of their mission.  There were over 40 trees and wreaths this year. Our tree was decorated with images of women that reflect the National Women’s History Alliance theme, “Women Who Tell Our Stories.” The ornaments featured well-known writers, journalists, and photographers as well as the scholarship winners who help tell the story of our branch.  Thanks to those members who helped to set up and decorate our tree.

General Meeting – November 11, 2023

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lisa Ruberg and Nadine King from Christmas Come True, described this community program and distributed wish lists to members who wished to participate.

Lynn Balaban, a retired CPA, spoke about Women’s Financial Literacy.  Lynn is a graduate of the University of Florida and the sister of AAUW Flagler member Gale Ulmer.

General Meeting – October 14, 2023             

 

Selina Hernandez, Assistant Director of Student Services for the Flagler County Education Foundation,  spoke about the Take Stock in Children Program administered by the foundation and the important role adult mentors play in the success of the program. Take Stock in Children was founded in 1995 to combat a troubling and persistent dropout rate that plagued the public school system.  Its mission is to decrease poverty through education.

 

                AAUW Flagler partnered with the Flagler County Public Library to celebrate                                                               Banned Books Week, October 1 – 7, 2023                                                    Banned Books Week celebrates the freedom to read and spotlights current and historical attempts to censor books in libraries and schools.

On September 29th we kicked off Banned Books Week with a Just for Fun event, a Book to Movie Matinee featuring 11-year–old Margaret who navigates new friends, feelings, and the beginning of adolescence when her family moves from the city to the suburbs,

On October 3rd members of AAUW Flagler’s Reading Women Book Club led a Banned Book Discussion of the library’s featured banned book, Are you There God? It’s Me, Margaret by Judy Blume.

 

Monday, August 21, 2023                                                             A Just for Fun Event

Members met for lunch at Dominic’s Deli followed by a celebration of Senior Citizen Day at the Flagler County Public Library in Palm Coast.

We were entertained with rock songs of the 50s, 60s, and 70s performed by Dennis Hurlie and DJ Rudy.  Some of us were even asked to dance!

                                       

 

May 13, 2023 – General Meeting

 New Officers Installed and Scholarship Recipients Recognized

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

April 1, 2023 – General Meeting

 

We welcomed back one of our favorite speakers, Dr. Michael Butler, Professor of History and Chair of Humanities at Flagler College in St. Augustine.

Dr. Butler’s presentation addressed a timely topic – What is Academic Freedom and Why Does it Matter?

March 30, 2023 – AAUW Honored

 

The Advisory Board of the Daytona State College Falcon Hope Center (which was called the Women’s Center and later The Center for Women and Men) voted this year to honor AAUW at its annual Women’s History Luncheon.

The 2023 theme was “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.”  This year’s honoree is Pat Ross, President of the Daytona Branch of AAUW and former President of AAUW FL.

March 26, 2023 – Tag Sale Fundraiser

The Tag Sale held at the European Village Farmer’s Market to benefit AAUW Flagler County’s Operating Fund was a great success!  Not only did the participants have a good time, but we also raised $516.00 for the Branch’s Operating Fund.  Thanks to Suzie for booking the event and to all who contributed sale items, time, haggle expertise and their husbands to make the event so profitable!  A special “Thank You” to Haydee Bernal’s husband, Pete, and son, Sean!

March 21, 2023 – Fashion Show Fundraiser

Fashion + Fun = Funds for Scholarships

In another successful fundraiser, our members walked the Chez Jacqueline runway modeling everything from fashions for a casual cruise to elegant evening wear.

Thank you to our models and members who participated through their attendance and donations.  Special recognition goes to Suzer Sachs for securing Massage Envy gift certificates for the silent auction.  Much appreciation to Chez Jacqueline for supporting local scholarship fundraisers by providing the venue, fashions to model and refreshments at no cost to community organizations.

March 15, 2023 – Equal Pay Day Un-Happy Hour

 

AAAUW Flagler members met at JT’s Seafood Shack for an Un-Happy Hour to recognize Equal Pay Day.

This symbolic day denotes how far into the year women must work to be paid what men were paid the previous year.  All are wearing red to symbolize how far women are “in the red” with their pay.

 

 

 

February 24, 2023 – AAUW FL NE Regional Workshop

        Members from AAUW branches in Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, Flagler County, St. Augustine, New Smyrna Beach and Winter Park/Orlando attended the Leadership Workshop            held at the Museum of Arts and Sciences in Daytona Beach.   Representatives from our branch included President Ellie Bozzone, Membership Vice President Vicky Fitzgerald and Web Manager Theresa Owen.                                                      

           February 11, 2023 – General Meeting

AAUW Flagler Recognizes Black History Month

Mr. Phillips educated meeting attendees about the  Gullah Geechee people who descended from enslaved Africans from specific tribal groups in West Central Africa, (of present-day Angola) and Kizzi. The Gullah Geechee, who lived in isolation on plantations from coastal North Carolina to Northeast Florida, developed their own patois, hybrid religious beliefs, folklore and arts. They spoke their own words in their own patterns and songs.

Just for Fun – January 25, 2023                

 

Members, joined by family and friends, visited the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine followed by lunch at the museum’s Cafe Alcazar.   Celebrating its Diamond Anniversary this year the museum had several new exhibits, including a beautiful display of Tiffany glass.  A wonderful day was had by all.

 

January 14, 2023 – General Meeting

Pat Ross, President of the Daytona Beach Branch and former President of AAUW Florida, updated AAUW Flagler members with information about new and upcoming programs and projects at the state and national levels of our organization.  She also spoke about the Legacy Circle, AAUW’s recognition society for our beloved visionaries who are committed to advancing equity for women and girls long into the future.

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December 14, 2022 – Just for Fun

Dinner and Holiday Lights – Members met for dinner at Olive Garden and visited Fantasy Lights, a Rotary sponsored event at Central Park Town Center,

 

December 10, 2022 – General Meeting 

   The Formality Singers, a mixed voiced chorus composed of students from Flagler Palm Coast High School, entertained our branch members with holiday favorites.

 

December 1, 2022 – Scholarship Fundraiser

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another successful fashion show fundraiser at Chez Jacqueline – $1,000 was raised for local scholarships!  Much appreciation to all who supported this event by buying tickets, donating raffle baskets and modeling.  Many thanks to Chez Jacqueline for providing the venue, fashions to model and snacks at no charge to our branch!

November 30 – Dedication of Shirley Chisholm Trail

Members of AAUW Flagler participated in the dedication of a bronze plaque renaming the Pine Lakes walking/biking path the Shirley Chisholm Trail.  The Democratic Women’s Club of Flagler County in conjunction with other community organizations worked with the City of Palm Coast to recognize the many accomplishments of this amazing woman.  She was the first black woman elected to the United States Congress as well as the first black candidate to be nominated by a major party for the office of President of the United States.  She spent her last years as a resident of Palm Coast.

November 2022 – Festival of Trees

AAUW Flagler continued its tradition of participating in the Flagler County Public Library’s annual community-wide holiday celebration.  During the Festival of Trees event, local organizations are invited to set up trees or wreaths at the library that are representative of their mission.  There were over 40 trees and wreaths this year. Our tree was decorated with images of women that reflect the National Women’s History Alliance theme, “Women Who Tell Our Stories.” The ornaments featured well-known writers, journalists, and photographers as well as the scholarship winners who help tell the story of our branch.  Thanks to those members who helped to set up and decorate our tree.

November 5, 2022 – General Meeting

We welcomed back a favorite speaker, Dr. Mary Gatta, sociologist, researcher, advocate and author.  Dr. Gatta recently moved to St. Augustine and is currently working as the Director for Research and Public Policy for NACE, the National Association for Colleges and Employers. 

Her presentation about gender and race inequities in internships garnered many questions and led to a lively discussion.   We learned that the top three skills employers are looking for are in the areas of communication, critical thinking and teamwork.

October 8, 2022 – General Meeting

Kaiti Lenhart, Supervisor of Elections for Flagler County is a Florida native, born and raised in Ormond Beach, Florida. She has been administering elections since 2009 with the Flagler County Elections Office. She was appointed Supervisor of Elections by Governor Rick Scott on January 9, 2015, and elected in 2016. 

Kaiti’s presentation about the election process, election security and the importance of voting was both informative and engaging.

 

September 20, 2022

Lunch and a Musical Event in                             St. Augustine

An enjoyable day was had by all as several members lunched at the St. Augustine Fish Camp followed by a Words and Music performance at the Waterworks Building that featured past AAUW FL president, Patricia Dewitt and her husband.

 

Words and Music Series with Peter and Patricia Dewitt. _ Visit St. Augustine2

 

August 27, 2022

Dedication of National Votes for Women Trail Marker

AAUW Flagler and the Flagler County Historical Society partnered to host a dedication ceremony for the unveiling of a historical marker at the gravesite of Alice Scott Abbott, a local suffragist who fought tirelessly for women’s right to vote.

Historic marker program celebrates local Suffragist Alice Scott Abbott (news-journalonline.com)

Historic marker program celebrates local suffragist Alice Scott Abbott (Palm Coast Observer)

Alice Scott Abbott Marker Adds to Flagler County’s Historic Assets – Flagler News Weekly

Friday, August 19 – Lunch and Library Program

Wednesday, August 24 – Smithsonian Museum Exhibit and Lunch

 

April 23, 2022 – Author’s Tea Fundraiser a Success!

Our featured speaker was Sarah Symons, Founder and Executive Director of Her Future Coalition, an international non-profit fighting human trafficking and gender violence with education and holistic support.  Sarah spoke about her most recent book, Standing in the Way:  From Trafficking Victim to Human Rights Activist, written with former trafficking victim Anjali Tamang.  Despite having suffered the most heinous abuse imaginable, Anjali is now working to combat trafficking and protect the next generation of girls in her community.

Although human trafficking is a heavy topic, there was an uplifting side as we learned how Sarah’s organization has educated, sheltered, trained, employed, and provided mental health support to thousands of survivors and vulnerable girls.

Sarah held a book signing and sold silver jewelry which was handcrafted by women enrolled in Her Future’s vocational programs. The Palm Coast Community Center was a wonderful venue and members banded together to provide proper refreshments – tea sandwiches and baked goods. Flagler County Suffragist Alice Scott Abbot, aka AAUW Flagler member Kathy Reichard-Ellavsky, attended to remind us that she led a fight against human trafficking over 100 years ago!

     

April 4, 2022 – In Memory of Arlene See

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Arlene See who had been an AAUW Flagler member since 2011. Arlene was a seasonal resident who divided her time between Palm Coast and Lemont, IL. She made the most of her AAUW membership during the time she resided here. Arlene regularly attended monthly Luncheon Meetings, was an avid reader and member of the Reading Women Book Club and enjoyed participating in Just for Fun outings. She was especially enamored of the Downton Abbey exhibit which we visited at the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine.

Obituary | Arlene Elizabeth See of Illinois | Richard J. Modell Funeral Home & Cremation Services (rjmodellfh.com)

April 2, 2022 – General Meeting

 AAUW Flagler Welcomes Randy Jaye,                   Local Author and Historian    

Randy Jaye who has had a lifelong passion and interest in history, took us on a journey through various episodes of black history from the rural South that featured local historical adventures weaved into broader national and international events. His presentation spanned from the European Invasion of the New World, the Plantation-era South, the American Civil War, Jim Crow laws, the two World Wars, to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond.

     

March 31, 2022 – Branch Recognizes Equal Pay Day    

Members of our branch met at JT’s Seafood Shack on March 31 for an Un-Happy Hour to call attention to the disparity in women’s wages compared to what men are paid. Equal Pay Day marks how far into 2022 the average U.S. woman had to work in order to catch up with what the average man earned in 2021. In 2021, the average U.S. woman was paid only 83 cents for every $1 paid to the average man.  We wore RED to symbolize how far women are “in the red” with their pay.     

March 29, 2022 – Fashion Show Fundraiser

Our Fashion Show Fundraiser at Chez Jacqueline on March 29 was a SUCCESS! Between ticket sales and raffle basket drawings we made $750. Kudos to our five members who showed off their modeling skills as they strode the runway and especially to Sally Smeaton who took her modeling responsibility so seriously that she arrived at Chez Jacqueline ready for duty almost straight from the hospital following a week-long stay. Much appreciation goes to Chez Jacqueline, a wonderful supporter of non-profits in our community. The venue, drinks and snacks are offered free of charge providing an opportunity for organizations to fund-raise for their causes.

Thanks to Sherri Barnett for taking the lead on this fundraiser!

March 2022 – Tech Trek Campers Announced

March 12, 2022 – General Meeting

Local Suffrage Research Presented for Women’s History Month

                                                                                            Kimble Medley, a branch member and local author, discussed her journey in writing her book, Suffrage, Women & Untold Stories, and shared photos that offer a glimpse of Woman Suffrage in our county. Kim’s research for the branch’s celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment led to the discovery of more than 200 Flagler County women, including over 50 African American women, who registered to vote for the November 1920 General Election.

When Alice Scott Abbott, Flagler County’s suffragist, came to light, Kim spearheaded efforts to have Alice added to the National Votes for Women Trail and the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame. She also worked toward recognizing Ms. Abbott’s final resting place with a commemorative marker by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation.  Kim also joined other branch members to present a revised version of the skit, “Women Won the Vote: How Did That Happen,” first brought to life by long-serving member Muriel Levy.                                                                               

                                                         February 22, 2022                                                                                AAUW Flagler Participates in Inaugural Meeting of Flagler County Cultural Council

Our branch was represented at this community event at the African American Cultural Society.  We increased awareness of our organization as well as our joint project with the Flagler County Historical Society to raise funds to purchase the 1916 Seventh Day Adventist Church building in Espanola, move it to its original location in Bunnell, and turn it into a Florida Women’s Voting Rights Museum.

New cultural council will act as sole arts agency for Flagler County | Palm Coast Observer

February 12, 2022 – General Meeting

Michael Butler, Ph.D., Kenan Distinguished Professor of History, Flagler College and Regina Phillips, Executive Director of the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center spoke about the Contextualization of Confederate Iconography.  In the aftermath of the 2017 “Unite the Right” rally in Charlottesville, cities throughout the South debated the meaning and relevance of Confederate monuments that occupied prominent public spaces. St. Augustine was no exception, and city leaders formed a committee to contextualize a structure dedicated to the memory of those “who gave their lives in the service of the Confederate States.” Dr. Butler and Mrs. Phillips were selected as two of the seven committee members. Their presentation told the story of the Contextualization Committee’s formation, findings, and recommendations. Most importantly, the experience demonstrates how nostalgia, memory, and identity pervade public discourse concerning uncomfortable historical truths.

January 8, 2022 – General Meeting

 

Dr. Mary Gatta, Associate Professor of Sociology at the City University of New York, discussed her current work regarding the multiple challenges facing Generation X women (those born between 1965 and 1980), who are in the middle of their careers.  They are navigating work, family and aging.  Her presentation shared the economic state of Generation X women, the way gender roles are changing, and the key challenges this group is facing as they approach retirement age.

December 11, 2021 – General Meeting

AAUW Flagler Celebrates the Season with Songs and Sharing

We very much enjoyed holiday favorites performed by The Formality Singers, a mixed voiced chorus composed of students from Flagler Palm Coast High School.  This talented group performs extensively throughout the community and at surrounding civic events. The Formality Singers Chorus and the Women’s Formality Singers Chorus have earned honors at the district and at the state level music performance assessments.  This performing group, originally started by Alana Fitzgerald and continued under Amelia Fulmer, has been entertaining audiences for over 25 years.  Now, under the leadership of Ester Jackson, they eagerly share the joy of music while building a bridge between arts education, career, and the community.

Branch members were generous in their giving, overflowing the Toys for Tots box with new, unwrapped toys.  William Donahoe and Sadiah Gomez picked up the toys for the Marine Corps Program which will be distributed to needy children in Flagler County.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read about our event in The Flagler News Weekly and the Palm Coast Observer.

 Saturday, December 4, 2021 – Holiday Craft Fair 

 

Another successful fundraiser at the Palm Coast Arts Foundation Creative Bazaar in Town Center.  Our booth sold creative craft items and baked goods donated by our members. Thank you to all who gave of their time and talents.  We raised $580 for our branch!

       

November 2021 – Festival of Trees

AAUW Flagler continued its tradition of participating in the Flagler County Public Library’s annual community-wide holiday celebration.  During the Festival of Trees event, local organizations are invited to set up trees at the library that are representative of their mission.  This year our tree was decorated with images and quotes from well-known women as we supported the International Women’s Day theme, “Choose to Challenge.”  Thanks to those members who provided quotes and ornaments and helped to set up our tree.

November 13, 2021 – General Meeting

Our speaker was Mr. Robert Snyder, who in his position as Health Officer/Administrator to the Florida Dept. of Health in Flagler County, managed the overall response to Covid-19 in our county.  During his presentation, he shared observations, data and lessons learned regarding public health since the onset of the pandemic.

 

November 7, 2021         Fall Fundraiser

Much appreciation goes to Ellie Bozzone, Susie Baird, Haydee Bernal and Suzer Sachs (and families) who braved a brisk day to staff a both at the Palm Coast Farmer’s Market at the European Village. The fundraising event netted $576 for our branch.  Thanks to all who donated items.

 

  Just for Fun Events

November 4, 2021 – Mary McLeod Bethune Statue Exhibit Tour

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 3, 2021 – Women’s Suffrage Movement Play

 

 

 

 

 

 

Members of our branch traveled to the Athens Theater in Deland to view “Ladies Taking Liberty,” a suffrage movement play written by a Deland resident who has family connections to famed suffragist Elizabeth Cady Stanton.  Thanks to Kathy for the photos.

October 14, 2021 – A Just for Fun Event

Seven of our branch members joined our sister branches from St. Augustine and Jacksonville to tour the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center.  The African American history museum is housed in the historic Excelsior School Building which served as the first public black high school in St. Johns County in 1925.  Through exhibits and stories we were schooled in 450 years of the African American experience in St. Augustine and beyond.

In Memory of Muriel Levy

AAUW Flagler mourns the passing of former member Muriel Levy.  A fabulous fixture in our branch, Muriel made us shine!  Her writing skills lead to the suffragist play “Women Voting?  How Did That Happen?” which was performed around the state and recreated in 2020 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment.  She was a Reading Women Book Club regular and directed several mystery plays to raise funds for scholarships.  Muriel was active in the community as well, volunteering her time and talents.  She believed in walking for exercise and could be seen walking all over Palm Coast before she moved to John Knox Village in Orange City.  A friend to all who knew her, she will be missed!

Read more about our long time member Muriel.

 

October 9, 2021 General Meeting

AAUW Flagler Recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month

 

Candice Wilkie, Outreach Coordinator for the Family Life Center, described the services provided by the organization – the only state certified Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency in Flagler County.  Through heart touching personal stories Ms. Wilkie provided insight into the complex issues for which services are sought by many in our county.  In addition, she spoke about volunteer opportunities within the agency, the importance of fundraising and how the community can help through always needed donations.

 

Read about us in The Palm Coast Observer and the Flagler News Weekly

Long serving Board Member Susie Baird installed Ellie Bozzone as Co-President-Elect during the meeting.  Ellie’s counterpart, Linda Russell, was installed in absentia.

September 11, 2021 – General Meeting

We welcomed a new year of AAUW meetings with something new – trivia contests! The questions inspire a lot of conversation at the tables.

Linda Russell and Karen Basany are the first contest winners.

 

August 2021

Appreciation from STUFF Bus Project Recipients

These drawings are from twin brothers who attend Belle Terre Elementary School. The children had no school attire/shoes for going back to school and wanted to thank the S.T.U.F.F. Bus program for the clothes they received.

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August 28, 2021

Women’s Equality Day Celebration a Success!

AAUW Flagler celebrated 101 years of women voting on August 28th with a special event honoring Flagler County’s own suffragist, Alice Scott Abbott of Bunnell.  The celebration, featuring state and local dignitaries, was held at the First United Methodist Church of Bunnell.   The Florida Commission on the Status of Women was represented by Commissioner Maruchi Azorin who presented the plaque for Alice Scott Abbott’s induction into the Florida Hall of Fame to Ed Siarkowicz of the Flagler County Historical Society.  Flagler Palm Coast High School JROTC presented the colors.  Girl Scout Troop 54754 lead the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem.  Boy Scout Troop 400 conducted a flag folding ceremony for the flag flown over the U.S. Capitol honoring Alice Scott Abbott.   Catherine Robinson, Mayor of Bunnell, Andrea Totten, Flagler County Court Judge, and Suzie Johnston, Mayor of Flagler Beach were guest speakers.  AAUW Flagler member Kathy Reichard-Ellavasky portrayed Alice Scott Abbott.

See our press coverage in the Daytona News-Journal and Flagler News Weekly

July 31, 2021

Back2School Bash @ Carver Community Center

AAUW Flagler County Branch joined Move to Improve Inc., a local non-profit organization, and other local merchants in hosting the third annual Back2School Bash.  S.T.U.F.F. Bus Chair, Haydee Bernal was excited to add yet another amazing bus stop. The Supplying Things U Find Fundamental (S.T.U.F.F.) Bus is a program by the Flagler County Education Foundation and one which AAUW Flagler has supported for many years. Its mission is to provide essential supplies and clothing to students of families experiencing economic difficulties. Saturday’s event did not disappoint. 

In four short hours, AAUW Flagler’s S.T.U.F.F. Bus delivered: school supplies, clothing, tennis shoes, 65 hand soaps and hand sanitizers, 42 laundry detergents, nearly 280 toiletry items, over 900 feminine products, more than 200 cereal bars, almost 300 Kellogg’s Pop-Tarts, 50 packets of Instant Oatmeal, in excess of 60 boxes of Kellogg’s and General Mills breakfast cereals, and many other food and essential items just in time for school, which begins August 10, 2021. Many thanks to the AAUW Flagler members in attendance and the community of Flagler County. Without their support, this event would not be possible. 

 

 

AAUW Flagler joins Move to Improve at Back2School Bash | Food | daytonatimes.com

May 23, 2021

A Just for Fun Event ~ E-Bike History Tour

 

AAUW Flagler members joined the Palm Coast Historical Society’s celebration of Preservation Month by participating in an e-bike tour of the “core area” of the city of Palm Coast.  The guided tour was led and sponsored by early Palm Coast resident and local Flebike shop owner Frank Paccilli.

 

Saturday, May 8, 2021 

Our end of the year meeting was held picnic style, at Flagler County’s Bings Landing Park on A1A.  Officers for the coming year were inducted and we learned about the winners of the three scholarships we awarded.  Our members were overjoyed with the opportunity to visit in person.

May 1, 2021

Fundraiser at Palm Coast Arts Foundation Creative Bazaar

AAUW Flagler had a booth at the PCAF Creative Bazaar at Town Center to raise funds for AAUW Flagler Branch and Scholarships.   Members and friends donated their crafty and yummy creations for this worthwhile cause.  Proceeds for the day totaled $305.50.

 

April 27 – 2021 High School Scholarship Awardees

AAUW Flagler participated with the Flagler County Education Foundation during their Drive & Surprise Scholarship Award Ceremony.   Three scholarships were awarded this year, including the first Mary Rose Hoffman AAUW Scholarship.  Read about our scholarship winners here in this article in the Palm Coast Observer.

 

April 16, 17, 18  ~  AAUW FL 2021 Virtual

 Leadership Conference & Annual Meeting

We gathered together virtually to renew acquaintances and our commitment to equity for women at all stages of their lives. 

Saturday, April 10, 2021 – General Meeting

  Flagler County Schools Superintendent, Cathy Mittelstadt, visited with us via Zoom and shared how the schools in our county faced and overcame challenges in the era of Covid-19, and developed many innovative programs unique to each of our schools.

March 24, 2021 – Equal Pay Day

Wearing RED and gathering safely outdoors for an Unhappy Hour at JT’s Seafood Shack to call attention to Equal Pay Day – the date that marks how far into the year the average women must work in order to earn what the average man earns in the previous year. 

March 13, 2021

Promoting the Florida Women’s Voting Rights Museum @ the Flagler Auditorium

Stronger Together – A Salute to Women                                                         A Pat Benatar & Pink Tribute

During intermission, AAUW Flagler members  spoke about a joint project of AAUW Flagler and the Flagler County Historical Society.   The audience learned about the efforts to move the 1916 Seventh Day Adventist Church (attended by Flagler suffragist Alice Scott Abbott and currently located in Espanola) back to Bunnell, next to the historic Holden House, and  transform it into a Florida Women’s Voting Rights Museum.  

 Read about our efforts here in the Flagler News Weekly

Celebrating Women’s History Month @ Our General Meeting

Suffrage, Women & Untold Stories with Kim Medley

March 12, 2021 – Just for Fun

Following the High Tea Soiree at the Palm Coast Community Center, members (dressed in Suffrage attire to promote the Florida Women’s Voting Rights Museum) visit with Vincent the Turtle.  Vincent is part of the Turtle Trail, a public community sculpture campaign started in May 2018 by the Palm Coast Arts Foundation.  Sponsored by AAUW Flagler Co-President Patti Paukovich and her husband, “Vincent” was inspired through one of Vincent Willem van Gogh’s more than 2,100 artworks, Café Terrace at Night (1888).

March 3, 2021 – Stuffing the Bus

New S.T.U.F.F. Bus Chair Haydee Bernal has been expanding AAUW Flagler’s efforts to support this critical program founded by the Flagler County Education Foundation.  Read about Haydee’s work in this article in the Flagler News Weekly.

 February 6, 2021 

Joint Meeting with AAUW Flagler & Palm Coast Historical Society    

 

The Rendition of the Ratification Process & Women’s Right to Vote         

 

 

Flagler County Judge Totten discussed the ratification of the 19^th Amendment and the entrance of women into political office, the legal profession, and judgeships, all post-suffrage.

Kim Medley, AAUW Flagler’s Publicity, Social Media and Women’s Vote Centennial Chair spoke about the “New Departure” and its influence on women’s rights to vote.

January 28, 2021 – We Added Alice!

                   Alice Scott Abbott, Flagler Suffragist, Inducted to the                                         2020 Florida Women’s Hall of Fame

In March of 2020, AAUW Flagler’s Women’s Vote Centennial Committee nominated Alice Scott Abbott for the 2020 Florida Women’s Hall of Fame.  On August 13th, the Florida Commission on the Status of Women announced that our nominee had been selected as a top ten finalist from 70 applications.  Watch the announcement here

On November 24th we were informed by Governor Ron DeSantis’ office that Alice was one of three women selected for this honor in 2020.  A virtual induction ceremony was held on January 28, 2021.  Watch the ceremony here

Governor Ron DeSantis Selects Three Inductees to the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame (flgov.com)

 

https://www.palmcoastobserver.com/article/alice-scott-abbott-bunnell-suffragist-to-be-inducted-to-florida-womens-hall-of-fame

 

AAUW Flagler County Branch was recognized at the Flagler County Commission meeting on December 14th for adding Alice Scott Abbott to the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame. Patty Paukovich, Kim Medley, Terry Smith, Kathy Reichard-Ellavasky, Susie Baird, Linda Russell, Awilda Hamilton. Photo: Ed Siarkowicz

January 9, 2021 – Zoom General Meeting

 

Joe Rizzo, Executive Director of the Flagler County Education Foundation, spoke about the Education Foundation and its                role in Flagler County schools.

December 2020 – Recognizing Our Own

December 2020 – Meet Our Newest Members!

December 5, 2020  – Arts & Crafts Fair Fundraiser

AAUW Flagler participated in the Palm Coast Arts Foundation Creative Bazaar at Town Center to raise funds for the branch and scholarships.  We sold handcrafted items and delicious home made baked goods – all donated by our members.  In addition, we had 100th Women’s Vote Anniversary Ornaments for sale and our Suffragists were in attendance.

November 14, 2020 –  Zoom General Meeting

Kim Medley, branch Social Media and Publicity Chair and AAUW FL Women’s Vote Centennial Chair, spoke about the Women’s Voting Rights Movement in Flagler County and Florida..

November 13, 2020 – Festival of Trees

Flagler Branch takes part in the Flagler County Public Library’s annual Festival of Trees event.  Organizations throughout the County are invited to participate by setting up trees decorated to reflect the mission of the organization.  AAUW Flagler’s tree celebrates the 100th anniversary of women winning the right to vote.  The tree, named “Alice” after Flagler suffragist Alice Scott Abbott is adorned with photos of the first Flagler County voters and stars representing the states that ratified the 19th Amendment.

November 2020 – Filming a Documentary

 

Palm Coast student entrepreneur takes on documentary about suffrage. (news-journalonline.com)

November 6, 2020

Members of the Reading Women Book Club gather safely outdoors to discuss The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

Front row:  Theresa Owen, Sally Smeaton, Marty Butler                  Back row:  Barbara Kroeker, Lorrie Blue-Angle, Kathy Burns, Sharon Danforth (Susie Baird not pictured)

In Memory of Mary Rose Hoffman

We sadly announce the passing of branch member Mary Rose Hoffman.  According to her husband Conrad, “Mary Rose took the 11:00 pm A Train to heaven” on Friday, October 23, 2020.  She was an active AAUW member, attending monthly General Meetings, making Raffle Baskets to raise funds for scholarships and showcasing her artist talents with submissions to the AAUW Art Contests.      https://www.lohmanfuneralhomes.com/obituary/mary-hoffman

October 13 & 20, 2020

Annual Scholarship Fundraiser Fashion Show

 

 

 

 

 

A night of Fun and Fashion at Chez Jacqueline – with limited attendance, masks and social distancing to prevent spread of the coronavirus.

In Memory of Janet Dance Spurlock

With sadness we announce the passing of former branch member Janet Dance.  She was a Past President, serving in the position from 1996 – 1998.  https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/flagler-beach-fl/janet-spurlock-9356294

August 2020 

AAUW Flagler Celebrates 100 Years of Women Voting

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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April 28, 2020 – Alice Scott Abbott on Votes for Women Trail

Our branch’s submission of the gravesite location of local suffragist Alice Scott Abbott was accepted for inclusion to the Votes for Women Trail, a project of the National Collaborative for Women’s History Sites.

April 2020  Branch Recognized by AAUW FL

 

March 6, 2020

AAUW Flagler Kicks Off Library’s Flagler Reads Together Program  with “Women Won the Vote:  How Did that Happen?” Skit

Branch members participated in the many wonderful events scheduled to complement this year’s book – Why They Marched by Susan Ware.  This title calls attention to the 100th Anniversary of Women Winning the Right to Vote!

Equal Pay Day Proclamation – March 3, 2020

Flagler Live Palm Coast Council Proclamation

Votes for Women March and Rally – March 1, 2020

AAUW Flagler members participated in the march in St. Augustine which started at the Corazon Cinema on Granada St. and ended with a rally at the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum on Aviles St.  Speakers included representatives from the Colonial Dames of America, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the proprietors of the Ximenez-Fatio House and the Jacksonville League of Women Voters.

            AAUW Flagler Partners with Flagler County Library         February 17, 2020

AAUW Flagler Performs Suffrage Skit for Flagler County Historical Society February 15, 2020