News From The South

Our last general meeting March 1, “Celebrating the Life and Times of Helen J. Stewart” with Helen Mortenson presenting, was a huge success. We had an all time high of over forty people. One item brought up was a monument to Helen J. Stewart that the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort had been contemplating for several years. They had previously contacted our state organization about this for help. With such an inspiring presentation, many participants were moved to proceed and help the Fort with their plans. Mary Gafford has been doing an outstanding job of coordinating the efforts of other organizations such as the Mesquite Club (where Helen was a founding member) and Classic Las Vegas.

Unfortunately, I was the only one attending the State Conference in Carson City, entitled “Women In Transportation”. I was impressed with all the presentations especially those done in costume. The following day was the State Executive Board meeting. It was decided that the award for the Teacher of the Year would be increased to $500. It was hoped that people would make donations to help pay for the increased award.

Our slate of officers for next year has been set. They include: President Mary Gafford, 1st Vice President Bette Ault (programs); 2nd Vice President Joan Le Mere (membership), Corresponding Secretary Yvonne Kelly, Recording Secretary Bev O’Connor and Treasurer Mary Margaret Rhea. I appreciate these talented people stepping up and carrying this organization forward. A final executive board meeting was held at my house April 12 with both the incoming and outgoing members invited.

Our final general meeting of my presidential tenure will be May 3 at Marie Callendar’s . Professor Sue Fawn Chung of UNLV will talk about Asian American women in celebration of Asian history month. Su Kim Chung nominated Dr. Joanne Goodwin of the Women’s Research Institute of Nevada at UNLV and Caryll Batt Dziedziak for the Roll of Honor. They will also be recognized at the meeting. Installation of officers will follow.

Linda Karen Miller, Outgoing President, NWHP So. Region