In this issue - Gainesville Newcomers Club · Read regularly, cover to cover 42% Read occasionally 11% Do not read 1% Check all of the items below that you would like to see included

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www.gainesvillenewcomersclub.org


In this issue

2 President’s Post Officers for 2018-2019 3 Newsletter Survey Newsletter Staff 4 November Program Menu 5 December Program Menu 6 September New Members 7 October New Members 8 Your GNC Directory In loving memory 9 Faces: Cheryl Usher 10 Places: The season is upon us 12 September Program Recap 13 October Program Recap 14 Luncheon Scrapbook 16 Community Service 17 Christmas Stockings 18 Ladies Night Out Group 19 Busy day soups for the

holidays 21 GNC Committees

Illustration:

Pinterest

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www.gainesvillenewcomersclub.com

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

The purpose of this club is to welcome newcomers and to be of service to the Community.

Board of the

Gainesville

Newcomers

Club

Board Officers

Janet Ordway, President

Beverly Collier, Vice President

Barbara Batog,

Treasurer

Barbara Alexander, Recording Secretary

Gay Lull,

Parliamentarian

Board Directors

Director of General Meetings

Rae Aldridge

Director of Member Activities

Jan Lanman

Director of Member Information

Charlene DeWitt

Director of Member Services Rae Ann Gerhardt


W ell, you knew it was going to happen sooner or later…I just had to say something about technology. By the time you read this it will have been a little more than one year since we opened the club up to the world of Wild Apricot. Technology has also created change in many of our homes. We used to write a check for every expense and purchase. With technology, my husband and I may write no more than three checks a month. Everything else is done electronically. Today, three quarters of our members pay online for their lunches. The Luncheon Committee can process the small number of checks quickly, allowing them to enjoy the luncheons. Our online calendar is a great place for Interest Groups to advertise their events and collect the names of members who wish to join them each month. If you log in to the website, the calendar is the first thing you see. Just click on any of the colored blocks to get all the details about any of the events. Several of our members, including our Webmaster Cheryl Usher, are available to help you with any questions you may have about how to create your password, log in to our website or take advantage of all the information at your fingertips. Cheryl and Teri Weber will be offering some great tips at various times during our luncheons with their “Did You Know” segment. Twenty years ago, I don’t think any of us imagined sending instant text messages on our phones or enjoying photos of our children or grandchildren with the press of a finger. Change can be challenging, but change can be fun and good for us all! On another note…it always amazes me how fast time goes by…here we are coming into the holiday season. I hope that you will be able to take some time to enjoy whatever gives you pleasure. My wish for us all is peace and happiness throughout the holidays and for the coming year. Until next time…

Janet Ordway GNC President

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Newsletter

Acquisitions Editor

Annette Hinton

Copy Editors Patsy Amidei

Beverly Feldkamp

Layout Editor Judy True

Proofreaders Janet Ordway Linda Brady

Special Assignments

Kristin Kern Karen Popple Libby Jackson Evelyn Asher

Photographer Donna Davis

Webmaster

Cheryl Usher

COMMENTS, IDEAS,

SUGGESTIONS

Just go to the email address below, list one or more of the above names

in the subject line, add your message and click ‘Send’. It’s as

simple as that! All will be received by the President

for response. Only signed submissions will be addressed.

Gainesvillenewcomers

[email protected]

Thank you in advance for your

input!

PHOTOGRAPHS Pictures are public domain

unless otherwise noted. www.gainesvillenewcomersclub.org

M any thanks to those of you participating in the recent survey to determine what members want to see in the club publication. As more information and time sensitive announcements from committees and groups move to the GNC website, readers may expect changes to the content of the news-letter. Rather than be faced with the redundancy of the same material appearing on both the website and in a newsletter, the Publications Committee wanted members to have the opportunity to express their needs and opinions regarding their news publication. Feedback from this survey provides a strong reminder of how diverse our membership is regarding reading habits, interests and activities. With 87% of the respondents indicating that they are regular readers of the newsletter, the staff found members’ levels of interest in the current content of the news-letter to be encouraging. Over half (50 to 85%) of those responding expressed interest in 8 of the 10 content items being continued as part of their newsletter. Keep in mind – both the Newcomers Club website and your club publication help clarify our club’s identity within the Gainesville/Hall community and the surrounding region. As our club moves forward to providing more computer based information, the Publications Committee has considered whether or not a traditional newsletter is necessary.

However, as a result of this survey, it is obvious that GNC members are interested in seeing news articles and written items of interest continued, whether the information is provided in a stand-alone newsletter or included as separate postings on the website. Survey Summary The following survey summary is based on 104 responses or 22 percent of members who were current members when the survey was taken. (President Ordway observed that this is a really high response rate for a survey!)

Survey Items Percent of total votes cast What is your level of readership? (Select one) Skim for articles of interest 45% Read regularly, cover to cover 42% Read occasionally 11% Do not read 1%

Check all of the items below that you would like to see included in the GNC Newsletter. GNC events and activities 85% (Upcoming and just previous) Places articles 68% Featured Interest Group 66% New member information 65% Community, city and county information 62.5% Message from club president 60% Community outreach groups 58% Photos of members at meetings, events and activities 52% Articles, topics submitted by members 30% Faces articles featuring GNC members 29%

New Column

Upcoming newsletters will feature short articles on how to improve your technology skills. In this issue see the column entitled “Tech Tips 1: Your GNC Directory” by Janet Ordway.

Fall into Winter With Beauty and Ease

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November Luncheon Menu

Buffet

*Baby Kale Salad tossed in Persimmon Vinaigrette with Diced Pineapple, Bacon Bits and Candied Pecans

*Oven Roasted Turkey with Giblet Gravy and Cranberry Relish

*Brown Sugar Glazed Ham with Cherry Compote Cornbread and Dressing

*Whipped Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar and Pecans

*Oven Roasted Vegetables Sweet Potato Pie

Pumpkin Pie

*Gluten free items are italicized with asterisk

Y ou won’t want to miss the November program. From food to décor it’s packed full of wonderful tips for the holidays. Some you may sample and some you may purchase. José Zavala, Executive Chef at the Chattahoochee Country Club, will provide a culinary demonstration featuring simple holiday hors d’oeuvres created with Thanksgiving foods. Chef Zavala is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and has a wealth of experience in fine dining in both Europe and the United States. If you can catch him in a free moment, ask him for advice on one of his many areas of expertise: food and wine pairing. Chef Zavala will be demonstrating and handing out samples: Ham and Cranberry Rolls, Turkey Pinwheels and Sweet Potato Phyllo Cups. Be sure to come hungry!

Welcome back, Kelley Henry, co-owner of Joyce Merck Florist. Joyce Merck Florist is family owned and operated and has been providing our organization with the beautiful new members’ corsages since 2010. Kelley and one of her design team have been invited back for the third year to showcase some of their new holiday gift and décor ideas. Kelley has a passion for holiday decorating and loves to share ideas for décor and gifts with our Gainesville Newcomers Club. Her ideas come from a wide variety of places including the Atlanta Gift, Home Furnishings and Holiday Market Show, as well as the Holiday Mart. She and her designer will set up a miniature showroom of lovely creations to help us with our holiday decorating and gifting.

Mixer Tables in November

It is always fun to sit with your friends at our Newcomer Luncheons. But you know what else is fun? Sitting with and meeting new people! Sign up for our mixer tables in November when you RSVP for the luncheon. “Last year when I sat at the mixer table, I met several new people, made a new friend, and got a recommendation for a contractor to remodel my bathrooms. He remodeled four bathrooms for us this year and became a family friend.” Teri Weber For questions or more information, contact JoAnne Dandrea.

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December Luncheon Menu

Buffet

Brunch Style Quiche Lorraine style Breakfast Casserole

*Country Fried Potatoes *Cheese Grits

*Applewood Smoked Bacon and Sausage Patties *Seasonal Fresh Fruit Tray with Yogurt Dipping Sauce

Morning Glory Mini Muffins, Assorted Danish, and Buttermilk Biscuits

Butter, Jams and Preserves Malted Waffles (on buffet, not Chef Attended)

with toppings of Bananas, Strawberries, Blueberries, Blackberries, Pecan Pieces, Chocolate Chips, Maple Syrup,

and Whipped Cream

*Italicized and asterisked items – gluten free

Beautiful Entertainment by Brian Ulrich

M usician Brian Ulrich grew up in New York where he learned his love and practice of music. Brian plays saxophone, clarinet and flute. He toured Europe with the American Symphony and Chorus and has performed with Chuck Mangione, The Eddie Love Big Band, The Statesman, The Rochester Philharmonic, and too many other show orchestras to name. We are fortunate that he and his family moved to Gainesville where he performs with The Gainesville Symphony as well as many venues in Atlanta, on television, radio and doing studio work. Brian believes in giving to the community and spends much of his free time performing at area nursing homes, churches and fund raisers. Photo: Brian Ulrich press release

DON’T FORGET!

The November Luncheon and Meeting will be November 14. Reservations are due no later than November 7.

The March Luncheon and Meeting will be on March 20, 2019.

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Kandi Andrade was born and raised in Daytona Beach, FL. She moved to Atlanta in the early 1970s with Sears, where she worked for 22 years. She lived in several places in Atlanta, finally settling in Alpharetta. There she started her second career with UPS Corporate, where she worked 22 years. In 2017 she moved to Gainesville after her entire community was bought out by a developer. She had been coming to the lake for years and decided Gainesville would be a good fit for her. Her hobbies include reading, cooking and traveling. Debbie Cox spent the first 38 years of her life in Flemington, New Jersey, and then moved to Georgia. Prior to moving to Gainesville, she lived in Buford where she worked at the Estee Lauder counter at Belk in the Mall of Georgia. Debbie enjoys entertaining, shopping, working out, book clubs, and her grandchildren. She has four children and six grandchildren for now... another grandchild is due in October – a sweet baby boy! Sara Crawford calls herself an expert in moving. She is originally from Louisiana but has also lived in Suwanee, GA; Boise, ID; Greensboro, NC; Los Colinas, TX, and Tacoma, WA. She recently moved to

Gainesville near her sister Susan Wentz who told her about GNC. Sara loves all kinds of art, but she is especially fond of Red Skelton art. She is interested in gardening and is looking forward to meeting new people. Linda MacGregor is originally from Tampa, FL. She is an engineer and was lured away from Suwanee, GA, to accept the director position at the Gainesville Water Department. She now calls Cresswind home. Her hobbies are playing piano and making jewelry. Brenda Smith is originally from Albany, GA. She retired as an executive assistant for a large OB/GYN group in Dunwoody, GA. After her recent marriage, she moved to Gainesville and lives on a 26-acre estate in East Hall. The move from an urban area to the rural part of Gainesville has been an adjustment, so she is very excited about joining interest groups and meeting new people. Her interests include gardening, dining out, reading, theater and shopping. Julie Stensrud was born in North Dakota. Prior to moving to Gainesville, she lived in Nashville and worked in Human Resources as a mentor to young adults in the corporate world. Although she loved being a mentor,

she was very happy to ditch her business clothes for the comforts of retirement. She has a servant’s heart and loves helping seniors, young women and children. Her interests include gardening, hiking and reading. Claudia Tibbetts is a native Georgian. She recently moved from Dacula, GA, and is renovating a house on the lake. She taught PE for several years in Gwinnett County and is now substitute teaching. Her interests include running, going to exercise classes, playing tennis and spending time with family and friends. She also loves volunteering with senior citizens and with children. Denise Volante is originally from Orange County, California. She moved to Gainesville from Alpharetta to downsize after her 3 children went off to college. Her mother-in-law lives in Cresswind and brought her to GNC. She is a Registered Nurse and works part-time for an ophthalmologist in town. Denise also sells real estate in Pointe South where she built her house. She plays on 3 tennis teams, loves college football, hiking, good food and jet skiing on the lake. She is also a big animal lover.

New Members Welcomed in September Left Photo : Brenda Smith, Denise Volante, Julia Stensrud, Claudia Tibbetts.

Right Photo: Linda McGregor, Kandi Andrade, Sara Crawford, Debbie Cox

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Click on the gift symbol


New members

welcomed at

the October

luncheon

L to R:

Joan Sanford

Carol Chatfield

Debbie Aery

Mimi Szutz

Joan Sanford: Joan moved to Gainesville from Florida, by way of Ohio (you will have to ask her the story). Her son insisted that she move here so that he could enjoy her, and she could enjoy her grand and great-grandchildren. She is a passionate and talented artist. Carol Chatfield: Carol moved to Georgia 26 years ago (her husband came to work for the CDC). She moved to Gainesville to be close to grandchildren. She loves to travel, enjoys photography, scrapbooking and gardening.

Debbie Aery: Debbie was born in Mississippi, but moved to Gainesville from Florida. She is a Lifestyle Director (sounds fascinating). A recent widow, she moved to Gainesville to be near her son and daughter-in-law. She loves to travel, read and meet new people. Mimi Szutz: Mimi is from Austin, TX, but moved to Gainesville from Alpharetta. Her number one passion is traveling, so she became a travel agent. Her mantra: “Life is an adventure, pack up and go!” Mimi loves to experience new things so she learned to clog at 68.

https://gainesvillenewcomersclub.org/Birthdays

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U sing a web-based membership directory is new for some of us. We are comfortable with “how we have always done things” and sometimes are reluctant to try something new. But based on our feedback, it appears that our members have been willing to give it a go. Compiling and printing our directory booklet was an expensive endeavor, an awesome responsibility and a task not many dared to attempt. And alas, as soon as it was published, it was out of date. Members can now keep their records updated by merely editing their website profile.

1) Log into GainesvilleNewcomersClub.org, click again on the blue log in icon and select VIEW PROFILE. 2) When your profile screen appears just select EDIT, and you can make changes. While you are there, try uploading a photo of yourself from your computer. 3) When you are finished, remember to SAVE your work. With the new Wild Apricot for Members app for both iPhones and Android phones, you can now use many of the smart phone features with our GNC

directory. Download the app and, with the touch of your finger, you can call a member or send an email. Sending an email works in a similar way on the website version of the directory too. Since we tend to carry our phones with us wherever we go, member information is always at our finger-tips. The Android phone version of the Wild Apricot for Member app was just released on October 9. As usual, if you need any help with the directory, just let our Webmaster Cheryl Usher know. She will make sure that help is on the way. Stay tuned for more fun and interesting tech tips!

Joan Wolf In memory of Joan Wolf who passed away on Friday, September 8, 2018, after a lengthy illness. We send our heartfelt condolences to her husband John and family. A memorial service is planned for a later date.

Carla Claymore In memory of Carla Claymore, long-time member of Gainesville Newcomers Club, who passed away on Monday, October 8, 2018, after a lengthy illness. Carla was a caring friend to those who knew her and will be especially missed by the Mahjong and Dominoes/Mexican Train Interest Groups, which Carla led for many years.

Nancy Marlowe Nancy Marlowe, one of our longtime Gainesville Newcomer members, lost her battle with an autoimmune disease on October 31. Nancy was a beloved member of GNC who fulfilled many roles for our Club and served on our Board. She enjoyed life to the fullest and had a smile and a kind word for everyone. Our sincere condolences are extended to her husband Mark and her family.

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C heryl Usher joined Gainesville Newcomers Club (GNC) and the Master Gardeners’ Program in January 2017 following the death of her husband David. They had recently moved to the lake and she wanted, to be able to connect with Gainesville and the Hall County community. Cheryl has two children, Erin and husband Cameron, who have two lovely girls, Kallie, 5 and Kendall, 2 and a son Daniel, who is single. She has a beautiful lake home in North Hall which she shares with her mother. Her family is very important to her. Cheryl had a “30 year” career in education. She was an elementary teacher for the first 15 years and the last 15 years were spent teaching teachers to integrate technology in their classrooms. When Cheryl joined GNC she offered to help the membership learn to use the website. This led to her current position as GNC Webmaster and her continuing interest in assisting our membership to use the web to access information. Look for ways that she can help you in this newsletter. Cheryl is an active member of several interest groups including: Hiking, Canasta, Ladies Night Out, Singles Munch and Mingle and Casual Dining in. She is also an active Master Gardener working 16 weeks in Gardens on Green helping to rotate second graders through a field trip day that

includes 5 stations dedicated to pollinator, vegetable and native gardens, as well as a session on nutrition and composting. In the summer she works for 7 weeks in the Literacy Garden at Gardens on Green that is open to the public providing storytelling and garden art to preschoolers. More about that in the spring. Cheryl has many interests. She loves to kayak, bike and do agility training with her yellow Lab, Honey. Her Boston terrier puppy, Babe, tags along but is not yet up to the course. She also volunteers at the Urban Health and Wellness Free Clinic in Atlanta where she provides administrative and technological support. If technology scares you, sign up for a class with Cheryl after a luncheon meeting. She has a way of making it seem truly user friendly.


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F or those of you who are new to the area you are in for a treat! Exploring and enjoying the holiday season in Gainesville and Hall County are gifts in themselves. The cooler temperatures, scenic terrain, and quaint historic towns are the perfect backdrop for festivity. Add the fellowship of new found friends with the same interests, and the fun begins. GNC favorites are the holiday lunch on December 19. There is an opportunity to fill a stocking for a child in need. Three hundred stockings are made by member Amy Schick and distributed at the October meeting. Members fill them with small toys, toiletries and gifts. They are collected at the November meeting and distributed to children throughout the county. The December luncheon always leaves you feeling festive with members wearing their holiday finest, and everyone enjoying a beautiful Christmas program.

Christmas on Green Street. Another way to get involved and

meet fellow members is to participate in Christmas on Green Street, sponsored by the Hall County Historical Society on Sunday, December 2. Members who volunteer for the event don Victorian period costumes provided by Amy Schick and Mary Duvall. Green Street becomes a Dickens Christmas Carol when some of the historic homes open their doors, and GNC members serve as hostesses. Refreshments and music are offered at most of the historic homes. Food trucks, choral groups, and visitors turn the streets into a festival. The event is kicked off with a parade and a Christmas tree is lit at 7pm. Individual interest groups host holiday parties, as well, so be sure to plan for those on your calendar.

The Living Christmas Tree. Another local favorite not to be

missed is the Living Christmas Tree at First Baptist on 751 Green

Street, Gainesville. A soaring stage shaped like a Christmas tree

fills the church nave and holds an 80 plus member chorus. The

sounds of the season fill the church along with a colorful light show.

Tickets are free but required. Get yours early as this event always

sells out. This event is held at the beginning of December.

Continued on next page

Photo Credits above page: Gainesville Times

Credit: Gainesville Baptist Church


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Celebrations nearby. Events are also scheduled at nearby cities.

Historic Dahlonega is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and horse drawn carriages. A parade with the Jolly Old Elf occurs the first week in December. Check out more Georgia cities that aren’t to be missed on www.exploregeorgia.com. Lake Lanier Islands is hosting their Magical Night of Lights, and it runs from November to the beginning of January.

Jingle Mingle. Looking for unique and original gifts? The Jingle Mingle on the Square in Gainesville kicks off the season on Thursday, November 15, from 5-8 pm. “It ain't Christmas until they light the Great Chicken,” as the locals say! Gainesville, also known as the Chicken City and poultry capital of the world, proudly decorates a ten-foot-high decorated chicken monument to cluck it’s feathers! This event is sponsored by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce.

Annual Marketplace. The Medical Center Auxiliary’s annual Marketplace, November 1-3, is a shopping experience not to be missed. It is held at the Gainesville Civic Center. General admission is $5, and all proceeds benefit Safe Kids, Gainesville Hall County. Hundreds of booths display unique and interesting handcrafted gifts.

Holidays Fine Craft Market. The Quinlan Arts Center, 514

Green Street, is hosting the fifth annual Handcrafted for the Holidays Fine Craft Market, Saturday, December 1, and Sunday, December 2. It is free and features fine craft artists and artisans. You will find wood turns, pottery, jewelry and other exceptional items.

Art Colony Open House. The Art Colony, owned by member Sara Oakley is opening its gallery on Thursday, November 15. The Art Colony is a large and colorful group studio, art studio, and collective gallery of working artists at 514 Main Street SW, Gainesville. The Art Colony Gallery will feature a Holiday Open House from 1-4 on Sunday, December 9. Come shop the gallery for unique artistic gifts and watercolor prints by Popple Prints, owned by member Karen Popple. There is a wide assortment of original Seaside prints, Spirits and Distillery bar art, and Georgia landscapes beginning at $10 that make a perfect gift.

If all these events have you feeling the reason for the season volunteer opportunities abound. Meals on Wheels, The Salvation Army, The American Red Cross, Georgia Mountain Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, The Humane Society of NE Georgia and Toys for Tots all look for additional help during this time of year. Edna Clinton the Community Chair, will be happy to get you connected.

Cheers to all y’all and Happy New Year!

Photos this page: Top—Christmas in Dahlonega. Credit: georgiamountaininn.com. Remaining photos: Gainesville Jingle Mingle. Credit: AccessWDUM by David Cook.


http://www.exploregeorgia.com

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GNC Interest Groups

A newcomer to GNC cannot help but be impressed by the wide variety of opportunities we have to socialize, play games, participate in sports, and share or learn new skills. At the September luncheon Interest Group co-chairmen Audrey Marianes and Kathie Wilson, along with webmaster Cheryl Usher, offered assurances of a good time, as well as reassurance for using the website to sign up and access future Interest Group information. The highlight of the luncheon featured the enthusiastic Interest Group leaders inviting members to join their respective groups. Frequent audience laughter and “oh’s and ah’s” accompanied their use of clever skits, costumes and humorous anecdotes while sharing their plans for the coming year. If you are a member of the Gainesville Newcomers Club, you have absolutely NO excuse for being bored nor any excuse for not getting to know other members. Visit the website now to read all about the activities of our twenty-five INTEREST GROUPS. You can sign up to join as many Groups as you like by updating your “profile” on the website. This will ensure that you will receive all notices regarding those Groups. You can also peruse the calendar on the website and click on a Group that might be of interest to read about their upcoming event and (if applicable) register to attend. In this way, you can “try it on” before deciding to join. Either way, other members are anxious to meet you and share your interests!


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Gainesville Theater Alliance (GTA) Presents The Wizard of Oz

Gainesville Theater Alliance (GTA): Jim Hammond, Artistic and Managing Director of GTA, Music Director Rick Gomez and Pianist Sandra Lutters brought the “four friends” from the upcoming Wizard of Oz to perform two of the most popular songs from the production: “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “King of the Forest”. Dorothy (Taylor Priday), Scarecrow (Lauren Hill), Tin Man (Cole Ferguson) and Lion (Kathleen Waters) were wonderfully entertaining and proof that GTA deserves their reputation as the top performing arts school in several states. Jim says the theater is rigged for flying monkeys and witches and that this is the most state of the art performance ever staged at GTA. Order your tickets today; this is a show not to be missed.

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Little Steps Community Day Care Center. On behalf of the Gainesville Newcomers Club, Edna Clinton, GNC Community Service, presented a check for $4000 to Danielle Latlippe, Day Care Coordinator, Family Promise of Hall County, and Lindsey McCamy, Executive Director, Family Promise of Hall County.

Left/Right: Edna Clinton, Danielle Latlippe, Lindsey McCamy

One of GNC's annual traditions is to help with the Salvation Army Food Sort prior to the Thanksgiving holidays. Canned goods, dried milk, etc. are collected across the city or donated from neighborhood grocery stores. These donations need to be sorted and placed in boxes that will be given to needy families as the holidays approach. Indeed, the Salvation Army has been a symbol of hope and help to the people of Georgia since 1890. We have been blessed with so much, and this is an outreach project that is fun to share with other GNC members as we contribute to the community. This year we will meet on November 19 and 20 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Salvation Army office located at 711 Dorsey St., Gainesville 30501. Please plan to come help with this effort and you will reap the rewards!! Wear comfortable shoes and clothes-- work gloves are a must! You may bring spouses also and plan to go out to lunch afterwards to make a fun day of it. We hope to see you there. Thank you in advance for your support of this project!! Community Service Committee

Jubilee Farm, Inc. . Barbara Foxhall and Robin Friedman attended to

accept the $2000 donation from GNC to Jubilee Farm,

Inc. The funds will go toward planting the spring 2019

garden. The last two years over 4 tons of vegetables

were distributed to the community agencies the garden

serves. Everyone is welcome to come volunteer in the

garden on Wednesday and Saturday mornings.

Left/Right: Rae Ann Gerhardt, Robin Friedman,

Barbara Foxhall

GNC and the

Salvation Army

want YOU!!

September

October

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Donations Need Calendar A primary mission for GNC is to be of service to our community. Therefore, in an effort to help you plan your time and/or donations, the following provides the detail for that need-to-know information November 2018 through February 2019.


Happy Holidays, Ladies! Let’s make it happy for some children in our community too. Each table at the October luncheon had Christmas stockings made by Amy Schick (she made 360 stockings this year). Please fill your stocking and bring it back to the November 14 luncheon. Remember that’s the second Wednesday in November. Fill the stockings with small toys, books, wrapped candy, gloves or mittens, socks, etc. Be sure to include a toothbrush and paste. The dollar store is a good place to shop. Remember the stocking’s size when buying items. If appropriate you can open the packages of the items you buy. Once it’s filled, try to secure the items in the stockings for easy transporting. The stockings will be donated to several charities in Gainesville. Thank you for your generosity.

Month Organization Requested Items

Every GNC meeting Miscellaneous Pop Tops, Box Tops for Education and Travel Toiletries

Oct-18 Good News, Salvation Army, The Way

Gently used coats and new warm clothing (hats, scarves and gloves) for both adults and children We will hand out Christmas Stockings to be filled and returned in November.

Nov-18 Little Steps, Court Appointed Special Advocacy (CASA) Christmas Stockings that were handed out at the October meeting

Nov-18 Salvation Army HELP Requested Nov 19 and 20 from 9 am to noon both days need helpers to sort food.

Dec-18 The Guest House Toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, liquid soap, cleaning supplies Bingo prizes, such as costume jewelry and knick knacks

Jan-19 Humane Society Used towels, ONLY Purina One dog and cat food - both wet and dry needed

Feb-19 The Way Paper products: plates, napkins, paper towels; Eating utensils; 12 oz. Styrofoam cups; Toilet paper; Laundry detergent: Liquid body soap

March-19

Little Steps, a division of Family Promise that provides temporary day care while parents look for work

Walmart and Target gift cards Baby wipes, foam blocks, Clorox wipes, window cleaner, disinfectant sprays, alcohol free hand sanitizer, Kleenex, individual apple sauces, bottled water, laundry detergent, dish soap, dishwasher pods; craft supplies: construction paper, crayons, washable markers, glue sticks for use by 2-6 year olds

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L adies Night Out is a group of fabulous and fun ladies who have a weeknight outing once a month. The interest group began

a couple of years ago when a few Newcomers who worked during the day decided to start an evening group just for ladies since none existed. It began mainly as working professionals but now includes a fun variety of women from all walks of life. The evening our events are held vary as to what night of the week and which week of the month, but are mostly fun, high energy gatherings with ladies who enjoy a little adventure. We sometimes meet at fun locations and sometimes at members’ homes. Our evenings so far have included exciting events like an escape room, a Halloween scavenger hunt, a murder mystery party, a wild game night, Trivia nights at local restaurants, bowling, Christmas caroling (certainly an adventure for those who heard us sing! Haha) as well as lower key fun like painting, crafts, dinner on the dock and just eating out. But whatever we are doing, our time is characterized by women new to the area forging new friendships and sharing laughs. If you have any questions about this group, feel free to contact the group leader, Teri Weber.


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T he holidays are always filled with more tasks than any of us has time to complete. I have some favorite “go to” soup recipes that I make in bulk and keep in the freezer to pull out on busy days. Both are chock full of flavor and loaded with anti-oxidants to boost your immune system during hectic times. Each is good enough to serve for a company meal with a loaf of crusty bread and a winter salad. Both soups can be stored in the refrigerator for 4 days, or the freezer for 3 to 4 months. Either can be vegan or vegetarian depending on the stock used and the fat source.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup *Roasting the squash adds a depth of flavor that you won’t get from boiling, but it is a busy season. For a quick substitute, use frozen butternut squash; it’s already peeled and chopped; big time saver. Any of your favorite winter squashes may be used in this recipe. Try Hubbard, Delicata or acorn or combine some of each. Yield: About 2 quarts Ingredients: 2 medium Butternut Squash (4 to 6 lbs.), halved vertically, seeds removed (or about 6 cups frozen squash, prepared according to package directions)

2 Tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) 2 Carrots, peeled and chopped 1 large Apple, peeled, cored and chopped 1 Sweet Onion, peeled and chopped 2 Shallot Bulbs, minced 6 Garlic Cloves (these are the individual “toes” of garlic, not the bulb) minced or pressed 1 tsp. Salt ¼ tsp. Fresh Ground Pepper Dash of Cinnamon and Nutmeg 4 cups (1 qt.) Vegetable or Chicken Stock Optional: 1 cup Coconut Milk, canned, unsweetened 1 or 2 Fresh Sage Leaves (dried can be substituted) Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Line baking pan with foil or parchment paper and rub squash with EVOO. Sprinkle with small amount of salt and pepper and turn face down to roast; about 45 minutes. Set aside to cool.

2. Heat EVOO in a large soup pot and sauté carrots, apples, onions and shallots until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, stirring constantly.

Continued on next page

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3. Scoop cooled squash out of skins and add to soup pot. Or place cooked frozen squash in soup pot. Season with salt, pepper, cinnamon and nutmeg.

4. If using an immersion blender add broth and coconut milk to pot and blend until creamy and smooth. (*if using a regular blender or food processor add solids and enough liquid to process until smooth.) Be Careful Not To Overfill Blender! Put back in soup pot and stir in remaining broth.

5. Add sage if desired and simmer about 2 hours. Remove sage leaves, adjust seasoning to taste and serve.

Optional Garnishes: Cayenne Pepper, Chili Oil, Smoked Paprika, drizzle of Maple Syrup

Broth-based Vegetable and Gourmet Mushroom Soup *Note: This soup will freeze well if vegetables are not overcooked. Usually when I make this there are no leftovers to freeze. It’s quick and easy to prepare. Be creative and add your own favorite vegetables. The secret is to use a good stock. Yield: About 6 cups (1 ½ qt.) Ingredients: 2 Tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) or Butter 2 large Carrots, peeled and sliced

1 large Sweet Onion, peeled and sliced ½ Red Pepper, seeded and sliced thin 1 small Zucchini, cleaned and sliced diagonally 2 Celery Stalks, cleaned and sliced diagonally 2 lbs. Fresh Mushrooms, sliced (I use a mixture of Shitake, Cremini and Portobello for enhanced flavor and nutrients, but any mushrooms may be used) 6 cups Vegetable or Chicken Stock 1 cup White Wine (optional) 1 tsp. Fresh Thyme Leaves or 1 ½ tsp. Dried Thyme Salt and Pepper to taste Directions: 1. Heat EVOO or butter in a soup or stock pot

over medium heat. Add vegetables (except mushrooms) and cook until just tender; about 10 minutes.

2. Stir in mushrooms and thyme and cook until mushrooms are just done but not wilted.

3. Carefully pour in stock and white wine and season with salt and pepper. *I like to add Herbs de Provence to my soup as well.

4. Simmer about 30 minutes and serve. (I frequently add other vegetables such as babybock choy, leeks or spinach leaves to this soup. Create your own favorite recipe.)

Do you enjoy cooking or baking? Do you have any favorite recipes you would like to share with our members? Creative ways to use leftover culinary masterpieces? Email your recipe submissions to Annette Hinton, [email protected] . Please put recipe for GNC Newsletter in the subject line.

mailto:[email protected]

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Financial Officer Vicky Giesegh

50/50 Drawing Jeannette Christman & Lynn Blaylock Name Tags Laura Nagy—Chair Denise Ulrich

Luncheon Melanie Altman and Kathryn Carswell —-Registration Marilyn Valent — Venue Liaison Backup: Pam Cohan/ Kay Reis

Programs Patricia Louko — Chair Recruitment Shawn Shields Susan Beem Implementation Tamra Glenn Janie Whitehead Sheri Clarke

Hospitality Sue Joninas & Lois Weeks, — Co-Chairs

Membership Teri Weber — Chair Joanne Dandrea Pam Gonzalez Jeanette Wheatley Frances Floyd Carol smith Joy Senen Janet Quick Patti Reulbach Pam Arthur

Community Edna Clinton & Marlene Buck — Co-Chairs Claudia Williams

Debbie Fox Marolyn Carlson Joan Hansen Mo Singh Kay Spence Elaine Wood Nancy Alexander

Interest Groups Audrey Marianes & Kathie Wilson — Co-Chairs

Table Décor Jane Karnes & Janiece Beckelhymer — CoChairs Teresa Bruhn Susan Radle

Special Events Gloria Cortez & Jeannie Boohaker — Co-Chairs Terry Youngblood Cindy Todd Deborah Barker On call: Brenda Estes

Communication Jenny Papevies — Chair Debbie Anderson Heidi Anderson

Publications/Newsletter Judy True & Annette Hinton — Co-Chairs Patsy Amidei Linda Brady Beverly Feldkamp Kristin Kern Karen Popple Libby Jackson Evelyn Asher

Publicity Linda Lubeck

Photographer Donna Davis

Webmaster Cheryl Usher

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