A Note from the President
A Note from the President
Hello everyone , One of the wonderful things about the AWCH is the sheer amount of activities our members can choose from . We have groups for photography , opera , theater , film , art , and crafting . Walking groups meet weekly , book club monthly , and social hours as often as we can schedule them . It ’ s easy to find like-minded people who welcome you with open arms .
But it ’ s also nice to have opportunities to meet other members of the club , people who have different interests and participate in different activities ( or none at all ). As a way to mix all members together , the AWCH board hosted our first Meet & Mingle gathering in September . More than twenty-five people came out on a weeknight to hear the latest club news , see old friends , and meet new ones .
In my previous chats with other club presidents , I learned that many other clubs hold monthly membership meetings . I liked this idea of a regular gathering of all our members , so our board wanted to see what that might feel like for the AWCH . This first version was definitely a success !
It was a very lively event . We shared a quick update of some club activities , enjoyed snacks and drinks , and learned new crafts together . Many folks heeded our call for Hanseatic Help donations , and we were able to give five huge bags of clothes and towels , plus € 40 to our charitable partner .
Sara Naumann , vice president , hosted a live version of our newsletter ’ s Member Spotlight feature . She interviewed Susan Stanley-Witt , and we all learned some new things about Susan , her interests , and her history with Hamburg and the AWCH .
It was fun , and I ’ m looking forward to the next one . Who will we shine the spotlight on next ?
While we aren ’ t planning to host these meetings every month , this was a good blueprint and something we would like to arrange several times per year . We will schedule the next one for early spring .
In the meantime , autumn and winter always bring an abundance of holiday celebrations and more opportunities to get together with other club members . Please mark these dates in your calendar ( some of them are different than previously announced — I regret the errors !).
Thanksgiving , November 18 , at DESY Holiday Party , December 7 , at Kunsthalle
Cookie Exchange , December 13 , in Winterhude
Finally , I wish to extend a huge thank-you to everyone who participated in this year ’ s AWCH silent auction ! We raised more than € 3,000 , which will be donated to Awesome Blossoms , the FAWCO target project . So many generous people gave their own services and items , including unique jewelry , a watercolor painting workshop , handmade socks , a winetasting seminar , cakes and jams , canned pumpkin , and so much more . The spirit of giving in our club is heart-warming ! And of course a special shout-out to Jordan Wagner , our FAWCO representative , who put countless hours into organizing this incredible event and ensuring it runs smoothly for everyone . You ’ re the best , Jordan !
I hope to see you all at Thanksgiving ,
Stephanie Matlock Allen AWCH president
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