The CONNECTOR
December 2006. News for Branch Presidents in Iowa
As a new month begins, a year begins its’ movement to conclusion, and we are reminded of swift passage of time, and we are reminded our need to respect, share and honor those who enter our lives, perhaps briefly but significantly. With joy in knowing each of you, I send you greetings and best wishes for a happy holiday and the beginning of a great new year. Dr. Janet Heinicke, IA AAUW State President, 2006-08
How was your Anniversary cake?
Birthday cakes were the order of the day this year as branches across the state celebrated the 125th Anniversary of the founding of the AAUW. Governor Vilsack declared November 28th American Association of University Women Day. Lt. Governor Pederson met with Florine Swanson, our Regional Director, Sandy Keist, our Program Vice President, and me in her office to present the proclamation. You can see pictures and a full story on the IA AAUW web site.
Remember to send news about your own celebration both to Neysa Picklum webmaster as well as to the Association. (neysapicklum@mchsi.com)
Future issues? AAUW has never been reticent about addressing tough issues
As the 126th year of our association begins, the Strategic Planning Process, begun about sixteen months ago, has started to consider specific proposals for change. The entire strategic work and findings are outlined at www.aauw.org under Strategic Planning Process, Principles for Change, Draft Strategic Process Roadmap and Key Messages. The joint boards have adopted new Mission and Vision statements. You can NOW use them in your branch. Because the delegate vote on proposed by laws will occur at the Phoenix convention June 29 to July 2, you are encouraged to explore ways in which you and your branch can be represented at the convention.
Did you know? Do your members know about this way of charitable giving?
Carol Cooper, Legal Advocacy Director for Iowa writes:
“If you’re 70 ½ or older. The Pension Protection Act of 2006 allows you to give up to $100,000 each year through 2007 to your favorite charity directly from an IRA. You won’t get a tax deduction if the IRA distribution would have been otherwise taxable, but you save the tax you would have otherwise owed.” In checking this out with Regional Director, Florine Swanson, she writes that “regrettably this is only for 2 years. For anyone in this age category it is the way they should be making their charitable contributions at this time. This information is included in “Fund Facts” which goes to the list serve of EFP chairs and Legal Advocacy chairs.” However it may be a detail you have missed. I pass it along to you. Please help get the word out.
Did you know?
Oral histories provided by past Iowa AAUW presidents can be found at the Women’s Archives at the University of Iowa?
Renee Jedlicka has consented to serve on the state nominating committee. Mary Ann Ahrens is chairman of this committee?
Diane Edwards, of the Clarion Branch has consented to serve as Administrative assistant for the state board?
I am still looking for a person who would consent to serve as public relations person on the communications committee? Do you have a candidate in your branch?
Do you have these dates in mind? They are important for your branch
January 1, 2007 Contribution year begins for EF, LAF and Association
January 20th State board of Directors meeting. ICN sites
February 14 Date, place and Program announced for annual meeting in state newsletter
January 27th Deadline for nominations sent to state nominating committee,
Send to Mary Ann Ahrens, 601 Grand Ave. West des Moines, 50265. Email. maahrens@mchsi.com
April 20 and 21. Annual Meeting. Marshalltown Iowa. Best Western
June 29-July 2 Association convention
Did you know?
I would like to visit your branch sometime during 2007. Contact me at janetheinicke@earthlink.net to make arrangements.