Union County Genealogical Society
Union County Genealogical Society met Jan. 26 at Gibson Memorial Library in Creston with 16 present. The program began with a You-Tube presentation titled “Genealogical Brainstorming: I’m stuck, Now What?” by the Barefoot Genealogist. This was followed by a society member describing a “brick wall” in his research. Members brainstormed possible solutions, with the problem solved through local records found in the reference shelves.
Jane Briley presided at the business meeting. Roll call was answered by telling of “one of my most interesting ancestors.” Treasurer Elaine Brown reported that several society books were sold recently. She reminded that 2015 dues are due. Several exchange newsletters were received, which are placed on the reference shelves.
Library Director Marilyn Ralls announced the library now has Ancestry.com available for the public. Roger Nurnberg explained a problem with e-mailing newsletters to members, and asked for members to update their e-mail addresses.
The Feb. 23 meeting will be 6 p.m. at the library.
Catholic Daughters
Court Joan of Arc No. 428 of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas met Jan. 13 in the parish hall after Mass celebrated by the Rev. Ken Halbur. Installation of two new members, Susan Kosman and Katie Brennan, was held during Mass. A meal was served by the committee of Kay Kinsella, Artie Mullin and Kathy Tapken. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a prayer for world peace.
Minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. Motion to approve was made by Lois Nelson and seconded by Mary McElroy. The treasurer’s report was given and approved. Motion to approve was made by Sharon Skarda and seconded by Pat Pokorny.
A list of improvements to the church and Rerun that Halbur would like help with was passed around at the last meeting and members checked which one they would like to help with. The one receiving the most votes was a video security system for the new Rerun building, so Catholic Daughters will be purchasing that. Halbur was able to find it at a lower cost than originally thought so Catholic Daughters may be able to help with something else such as refurbishing the candlesticks.
Ripperger talked to someone at Bunn about catering meals as a fundraiser. She suggested members do breakfast at break time as so many leave during their lunch break.
Ripperger announced the Des Moines courts will stuff goodie bags for the convention, so members no longer have to provide helpers for that. Pat Pokorny moved and Betty Baker seconded the motion that Catholic Daughters give $50 to Ann Moore to cover her expenses for ornaments she is making for the state convention. Motion carried. Members also discussed contacting Bunn about getting a coffee pot for a door prize. Teresa has agreed to be a delegate along with Ripperger at the convention.
Betty Baker gave the card report. Cards were sent to Irene Ripperger and Helen Sheets. Thank you notes were received from Halbur and our Christmas family for their gifts. Two guests were present, Kay Raymond and Joanne Gibson. Linda Linch presented the program.
Next month’s meeting will be a cookies for shut-ins project. Halbur won’t be available for Mass, so members will pray the Rosary. Artie Mullin won the half and half. Jane Collins made the motion to adjourn. Sharon Skarda seconded. Meeting adjourned.
Kiwanis
The weekly Kiwanis meeting was held 12:05 p.m. Tuesday at The Windrow with 28 members and three guests. President Jane Lowe presided. Korina Loudon did the prayer, and Drew Henderson was the finemaster.
The program was Darwin West with West and Frey Auctioneers. He discussed his start in auctioneering, gave demonstration of his chant and answered questions from club members.
New member Casey Purdum was installed.
Kiwanis Pancake Day is 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. March 10 at the Methodist Church at the corner of Elm and Howard streets. Tickets are $6 in advance and $7 at the door. For children younger than 12, cost is $3. This is Creston Kiwanis’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Members have tickets now.