LODESTONE The Lodestone - AAUW Nevada County (CA) Branch
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LODESTONE
The Lodestone January 2021
AAUW-Nevada County January, 2021
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The Lodestone January 2021
AAUW Mission
Table of Contents
The mission of AAUW is to advance gender
AAUW Fund 11 AAUW Fund Luncheon 17
equity for women and girls through research,
AAUW Mission 2 Board Highlights 5
education and advocacy. To that end, the Book Review 16 Branch O cers 6
organization encourages its members to CASA Project Report 3, 5 Farewell Message 10
actively participate in public discussion to Financial Underwriters 14 Holiday Zoom Photos 9
Interest Groups 15 Local Scholarship 13
ensure enlightened advocacy on the priorities President’s Message 4 Programs 1, 2, 6-9
of AAUW as established by members. Public Policy 6-9 Tech Trek 12
Priorities were adopted in May 2019 and can Ways and Means Ra e 4 Webinars 14 & 17
Women in Science 16
be found on the AAUW website under AAUW
Public Policy Priorities
https://www.aauw.org/resources
AAUW PROGRAMS
2020-2021
We invite you to mark your calendars for the general meetings for
AAUW 2020/2021
The programs listed below will be both informative and
entertaining. We hope you will join us - either by Zoom for now
or in person at a future date. Penny Savelly
Bernadette Sylvester
January 30, 2021–“Domestic & Sexual Violence – How It Touches Us All” A Public Awareness
Forum presented by AAUW-Nevada County Branch and Community Beyond Violence. See pages 6-9 for
detailed information
February 20, 2021 – “Educating the Girls of Rajasthan” – AAUW member Alicia Funk discusses her
trip to India and the efforts of a non-pro t to help educate village girls
March 20, 2021 – Women’s History Month –A Celebration of Women in Medicine -
A look at the key role of women responsible for health care in Nevada County by our local healthcare
experts.
April 17, 2021 –Elder Abuse – A panel presentation discussing the types of elder
abuse - including abandonment, nancial abuse, isolation, neglect, physical and
psychological abuse– and the resources to address those issues
May 15, 2021 – Installation Luncheon - TBA
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The Lodestone January 2021
AAUW/CASA Christmas Stocking Report –
Bernade e Sylvester
Our thanks to Bup for discovering the need at CASA for
Christmas stockings for the 62 children in their care. One
of the churches locally had donated stockings since 2002
but because of Covid was not able to continue the tradition.
Bup sent out an invitation to our members to participate in
the stocking project and within a day or two she had
enthusiastic responses from almost 60 of us.
The stocking makers – 8 of them – went to work sewing
colorful creative stockings that were then distributed to
over 30 volunteers for stuffing. Many generous members
made cash donations as well. CASA sent along a spreadsheet of gifts the children were wishing for and the 30 Santas made it
happen.
Along the way our AAUW members also received gifts - the gift of joy that came from making a wonderful and warm difference in
the lives of all these needy children. One of our own members – Cheryl Morris – summed it up when she said that she is a long time
CASA mentor and wanted to thank all of us. She said –“ You have really, really made a difference for so many by your generosity.
Makes me proud.”
Many thanks to Bup, Deb Cubberly and ALL of you for being a part of the CASA stocking project.
The members listed below were among those enthusiastically participating in the CASA project by sewing, shopping and donating.
We apologize to any of you that we may have missed. Know that your efforts made a huge difference in the lives of many. One
single Mom said “You have made my kids’ Christmas and mine – lifting a weight off of my shoulders and I am forever grateful.”
Katherine Greenwood, Amanda Welvaert, Penny Savelly, Carolyn Feuille, Barbara Johnson, Fran Erickson, Cheryl Morris, Karen
Smith, Margaret Munson, Lisbeth Noel, Bernell Scott, Kathy Scott, Barbara Tagg , Ann Shulse , Karen Hull , Rose Tammi , Robin
Laverty-Reves , Marion Linden , Stephanie Facchini , Stephanie Owyoung , Candy Jewett , Terry Juhl , Andrea Vetter , Sharon
Pezzi , Deborah York , Susie Monary-Wilson , Jennifer Wilkerson , Martha Rees , Sandy Davison , Alicia Funk , Betty Koski,
Sue Miller , Deborah Cubberley , Virginia Kingston , Kris Vasser , Carolyn Woods , Chris Boykin , Elaine Sierra , Karen Tajbl , Ellen
Keeshan , Bernadette Sylvester , Mary McClain , Ellie Anderson , JoAnn Schilling, Teri McConnell, Paula Stephan, Carolyn Seyler,
Nancy Knaus and Melanie Heckel. Thank you to all…..
See a le er from one grateful mother on page 5.
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The Lodestone January 2021
President’s Letter January 2021
A very happy and hopeful new year to you all. We wave 2020 goodbye with a huge sense of relief,
and with cautious optimism for the year ahead. We have made it through a challenging time, rising
to meet dif culties with courage and ingenuity. Some live alone, and they have had the most
dif cult time of all—but they did it! Others are lucky enough to have a partner, or even more family
in our “pod,” to cheer us in this isolated year. Members have reached out to each other, and have
reached out to the community to support so many who are struggling economically, physically, and
emotionally. We’ve had to nd different strengths, with our common sense and kind hearts to guide
us. And we aren’t done yet—this pandemic will be with us for much of 2021 as vaccinations gradually become available
to more and more of the population. Not done—but we know we can do it, together
And that’s a good thing, because there is more to do than ever. This pandemic has stretched the resources of our
society, and revealed how fragile our safety net is. Women are among those most impacted. The Institute for Women’s
Policy Research, in “Economic Progress Stalls for Women” (Oct. 2, 2020), notes that “women have lost more jobs than
men overall since February” (5.8 million to 5.0 million). Moreover, progress in job growth has slowed this fall, especially
for women who gained “a mere 43.3% of the jobs increase” since September. Women of color are even more affected.
Our National AAUW organization continues to ght for pay equity and for structural support for working women, like
affordable, quality childcare. Can we nd ways to support working women locally
Families are under stress, also, and that stress sometimes places women and children in physical danger. Stephanie
Fischer, with Community Beyond Violence, says as of December, “we have almost three times as many people
requesting emergency shelter than we did before [the] pandemic hit.” Three times as many; let that sink in for a
moment. Stephanie goes on, “COVID 19 has put survivors in greater danger, from being so severely isolated and
impacted by economic instability. So it is more important than ever in this new world COVID created for us, that we work
extra hard to educate the public, reach survivors and make services accessible in new ways.” Tune in to the Forum on
Domestic and Sexual Violence at the end of this month for more on how you can help support women at risk, and check
out the additional information in the Lodestone
Girls are impacted, as we see in our beloved Tech Trek. Tech Trek provides a unique opportunity for girls via STEM
education, but is struggling to adapt to Covid. The heart of Tech Trek is an in-person week on a college campus, lled
with activities and interaction that give girls entry to a wider world, the world of intelligent, curious women; of college life;
of collaborative research; of joy. Many of you are working hard to solve that puzzle, doing your darnedest to enrich the
lives of 2020 Tech Trekkers as you plan for upcoming years. Guided by experience, intelligence and kind hearts, you’re
not done, either. We’re in it for the long haul
Our community—local and global—needs us. In the coming year, let us nd ways to support women as we make our
way through Covid reality to safety—together.
Bup Greenwood AAUW Nevada County Branch President
Ways and Means Raffle
Many thanks to Virginia Kingston who has created another beautiful quilt! She has kindly donated
this queen-sized quilt to Ways and Means as a findraiser for branch operations. Raffle tickets will
be sold starting in February, and the drawing will take place at our May meeting.
Raffle tickets will be mailed to all members; details to follow!
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The Lodestone January 2021
BOARD HIGHLIGHTS Melanie Heckel
The Board met via Zoom on Wednesday, December 16, 2020.
Ann Shulse updated the Board on the Cleo Project, par cularly the $46,000 designated for
community projects. Community outreach has been ongoing and several organiza ons/schools
have expressed an interest. In January, the Commi ee will send out applica ons to interested
applicants. $400,000 will be u lized to provide two scholarships each year, renewable for a total
of four years each.
The Board reviewed a le er that Bup prepared to send to Na onal AAUW about the upcoming dues increase
scheduled for July. The le er expressed support for all that AAUW Na onal does to promote equity for women and
girls, but also highlighted concerns about the ming of the dues increase given the pandemic, and the lack of
coordina on with local branches. The Board supported the le er.
CeCe asked whether our Branch has a uniform response to requests to support other organiza ons with missions
that appear to align with ours. Virginia noted that the bylaws discourage nancial contribu ons to other
organiza ons. This can be a slippery slope to decide which organiza ons to support, par cularly interna onal
organiza ons. Susie suggested that we consider a new Branch posi on for a community contact person. The Board
agreed that suppor ng local organiza ons, such as the CASA stocking project, is appropriate and worthwhile. Bup
suggested a commi ee to discuss community projects, par cularly those that members can support as volunteers,
rather than just dona ng. Melanie, Susie, Jennifer and Sue volunteered to be on the commi ee. Bup will convene
the commi ee in January.
Martha noted that the Branch Tech Trek Commi ee has reached out to schools and former trekkers as they weigh
whether or not to select and send girls to the 2021 virtual Tech Trek Camp. They are also asking AAUW CA virtual
Tech Trek whether they can o er the virtual opportunity to our 2020 Trekkers. The MOU is supposed to be sent to
branches by AAUW CA in January. A decision will be made at that me by the Commi ee and the Board.
Letter from one recipient of the Christmas Stocking project…
Subject: From my little family to you
To the person receiving this letter and who donated to my family I want to thank you from the
bottom of my heart. As a single mother to four kids one of which being special needs I could
barely make ends meet as it was. When the pandemic hit I was struck even harder than I could
have ever imagined. For two years now I have fought to have my kids return home, have a home
for them to come to and regain my life back. Just when I thought I had nally seen the end of
my struggle and I had won the battle this pandemic hit, knocking me at on my back, and threw
me through another loop. You have made my kids Christmas and mine, lifting a weight off of my shoulders and I’m
forever grateful. I couldn’t ask for more... Seeing all the presents, knowing my kids will be happy on Christmas makes
me have some hope that I can make it through without having to be in debt just to see them smile
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The Lodestone January 2021
Executive Officers 2020-2021
President: Bup Greenwoo President-Elect: Open Positio
Secretary: Melanie Heckel Finance Of cer: Jennifer Wilkerso
Program Co-VPs: Bernadette Sylvester + Penny Savelly Membership Co-VPs: Shirley Zeff + Karen Smit
AAUW Fund Co-VPs: Fran Erickson + Jo Ann Schillin
The Appointed Board Of cers for 2020-2021 are as follows
Communications: Cece Roya Local Scholarship: Ann Shuls
Parliamentarian: Open Position Public Policy: Deborah Yor
Publicity: Martha Ree Tech Trek: Martha Ree
Ways and Means: Barbara Johnson Website: Vivian McKnigh
Fundraiser: Chris Casey Interest Groups Susie Monary-Wilso
Historian Margaret Munso
Contact information for all officers can be found in the Membership Directory.
Public Policy Deb York
Join us on January 30th for our joint forum on Domestic Violence. Detailed information is on
page 8 and page 9. Branch member, Carolyn Feuille, will be the moderator, and nine other
members of the community will be on the panel.
Domestic violence is a serious issue in normal times, but has been exacerbated by the pandemic,
and the information presented will be a valuable resource for the community.
Ways to Watch:
On Jan 30th 9:30-11:30 visit the Nevadacountymedia.org website, select Watch Now for the event live stream or
watch it live on Comcast Ch 11 or Suddenlink Ch 16.
After Feb 5th you can watch the forum anytime by visiting the Watch Now page on Nevadacountymedia.org website.
Scroll down and select NCM Main Channel On-Demand and select Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault: How it
Touches Us All.
ON THE AIR!
Carolyn Feuille from AAUW and Stephanie Fischer from Community Beyond Violence will be featured on
January 21st 9:00-10:00 am in a live interview about our Jan 30th Community forum on Domestic and Sexual
Violence with Tom Fitzsimmons on KNCO radio Grass Valley 830 am, or visit https://knco.com for the live
stream for his Insight program
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The Lodestone January 2021
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault:
How It Touches Us All Public Awareness Forum
Our AAUW branch in partnership with our local ‘Community Beyond Violence’
team will be offering this forum in a new virtual format produced and live
streamed from Nevada County Media as well as Comcast Ch 11 and
Suddenlink Ch 16 on January 30th, 9:30-11:30. It will be available any time after Feb 5th, 2021 on
nevadacountymedia.org , nevadacounty-ca.aauw.net and www.cbv.org websites
A number of factors related to the Covid-19 pandemic have increased the frequency and severity of
domestic and sexual violence around the world. Families are spending more time together in their homes
potentially trapped with abusers due to shelter-in-place and loss of employment. Parents are struggling to
work from home and support their children as schools have turned to remote learning. Loss of income and
healthcare has made it very dif cult for many families to provide necessary food. As current support with
unemployment bene ts and eviction protection run out this month, the strain will be extreme. Please plan
to join us and learn about the important roles that our local law enforcement, legal services, education &
schools, mental health, medical forensics, Community Beyond Violence, and self-defense &
empowerment professionals are positioned to help our women and families
If you are experiencing domestic violence, seeking resources or information, questioning
unhealthy aspects of your relationship, or concerned about a friend or loved one, the National
Domestic Violence Hotline has guidance for survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic, and
advocates available 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233 and through live chat for private, con dential
support. More resources are also available at the Domestic & Sexual Violence:
Nevada County Hotline: 530.272.3467. Online resources for
victims can be found
at www.thehotline.org, www.loveisrespect.org,
and www.rainn.org.
From Stephanie Fischer, Community Beyond Violence : At the beginning of the pandemic, we prepared for an increase
in demand for services as states enforced these mandates that limited public movement. But we, and many other organizations experienced the
opposite. The number of people reaching out for help in our community virtually stopped altogether. We knew that rates of violence had not
decreased, but rather that victims were unable to safely connect with services. Since then, we’ve pivoted services in many ways. And now we
have almost 3 times as many people requesting emergency shelter than we did before pandemic hit
COVID 19 has put survivors in greater danger, from being so severely isolated and impacted by economic instability. So it is more important
than ever in this new world COVID created for us, that we work extra hard to educate the public, reach survivors and make services accessible
in new ways. This forum helps us do that. So thank you and this amazing team that have been putting in countless hours for partnering with us
to bring this valuable information to our community.
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The Lodestone January 2021
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault:
How It Touches Us All Public Awareness Forum Participants
Stephanie Fischer, key speaker for January’s forum, is the Executive Director at Community Beyond
Violence (formerly DVSAC). Their mission is to offer resources for building healthy relationships and
to work with community partners to provide services for healing the effects of interpersonal violence.
They have been providing services to victims of violence and their families in Western Nevada County
since 1978
Stephanie has been working for the agency for over 10 years and has played many roles in her time there. She
started as the receptionist and worked her way through various positions until she was offered the position of
Executive Director in November of 2018.
Stephanie was born and raised in Grass Valley and is raising her own family there. She is a certi ed self-defense
instructor and is passionate about serving this community.
Chris Walsh Angela Vickers, MD
Assistant District Frank McClain
OB/GYN, Forensic Medical Examiner at the BEAR Men's Group Facilitator for
Attorney
Clinic in Sacramento. (BEAR stands for Bridging Community Beyond Violence
Evidence Assessment & Resources)
Detective Chris Roberds
Grass Valley Police Department
Lila Reyna
Survivor & Creator of Action Awareness Training
James Pritchett
(A personal defense & self-empowerment
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist at
program) Community Beyond Violence
Brett McFadden
Superintendent of Schools --
Nevada Joint Union High
School District
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The Lodestone January 2021
Signs to Pay Attention to if You Think Someone Might be in an Abusive Relationship
Summarized from Little Things by Kate Taylor, January 2018
https://www.safehorizon.org/safe-horison-in-the-news/abusive-relationship-signs/
1. Their partner doesn’t like it when she spends time with you
2. She changes her style when you know she didn’t want to
3. She abruptly cancels plans and you sense her partner is blocking her
4. She seems unhappy and sad more often
5. You feel uncomfortable around her partner
6. She has frequent cuts and bruises
7. He uses rough language and puts her down in front of you
8. She must always put his needs in front of her own
9. Her partner denigrates his prior relationships
10. She seems quite afraid to admit there is a problem
Gently inquire how she is doing and tell her that you are concerned. Don’t push too hard, create a safe and
open space where she can eventually talk with you. Don’t try to confront her partner or push her to do so.
Encourage her to get professional help in what to do. CBV hotline: 530.272.3467
Zoom shots from our Holiday Party on December 19th. Women adapting to the current times.
It was great fun, but must admit, we look forward to getting together in person soon…..sorry if
you have been left out……hard to get everyone, also not the best of photographic skills:-)
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The Lodestone January 2021
Thanks for the Memories and Inspiration!!
Dear Members,
Knowing you and being part of our Branch has meant so much to me. It is
difficult to leave our beautiful area but Chris and I have sold our home
and are moving to south Reno. We are downsizing and looking forward to
having less property and house to take care of. We are moving to a 55+
older active community with lots to do (once Covid is behind us) that
doesn't involve so much work. The time has come to start a new
chapter ... So...off we go! I will remain a member of our NC Branch and
continue to cheerlead for our Board, under the very capable leadership of
Bup Greenwood. There is an active Branch of AAUW in Reno which I intend to learn about and support, as well. Thank you
for all your hard work and tremendous inspirational spirit! I will miss you all!!
Thank you for your friendship and support over the years. You are incredible!!
Virginia Horowitz
Immediate Past President
Virginia and Jo Ann Schilling registering
Thank YOU, Virginia….. voters at SPD in Nevada City.
As Virginia embarks on the next chapter of her adventurous life, we send her on her way with our
love and warm wishes—and the knowledge that Reno is not that far away. Throughout her time
here, Virginia has been generous with her expertise and her time, serving first as our Finance
Officer for two years, and then as President from 2018-2020.
In the past year, Virginia led us through the challenges of Covid-19. Virginia found Zoom, learned
how to use it, and brought the Board into the 21st century to better serve our members. Virginia
connected with our members by telephone—she began phoning members every week, and gently
suggested the Board do the same. She guided us into long-range planning, fearing this pandemic
would extend far past the initial 30-days shutdown. And, of course, with grace and affection, she
modeled everything she hoped we would continue.
Every member who agrees to work on the Board deserves our thanks, but serving on the Board with Virginia has been a
revelation in leadership. She reaches out to each individual, listens carefully in every interaction, offering warmth,
guidance, and her support to help each of us grow. She is an experienced and wise leader, but her chief joy has been
encouraging others to lead, helping us find our voices and our passions. She is the best friend we each need.
It is hard to bid goodbye to our best friend, but we know everyone’s life has beginnings and endings. All the best to you
in your next chapter, Virginia, with love and gratitude from us all.
Bup Greenwood
President, AAUW- Nevada County
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AAUW Fun
While casting about for a topic for January, I stumbled on a really good video of a recipient of an AAUW
Achievement Award. Those of you who know my technological skills know stumble is the correct word. It
was a lucky stumble in which I found a video of Melissa Harris-Perry who was the 2013 recipient of the
Award.
AAUW honors women in all stages of their careers, from our local scholarships, to graduate and post-doctoral
grants. The Achievement Award honors those women who helped create a more equitable world. Honorees
have included such dignitaries as Sonia Sotomayor and Margaret Mead.
This award honors a past recipient of an AAUW fellowship or grant who has achieved outstanding success and
distinction in her profession. Melissa’s chosen eld is Academia. She is a Professor at Wake Forest University.
She is also an award-winning author and commentator as well as a Professor of Politics and International
Affairs. She has won several prestigious book awards.
What really caught my interest and personally broadened my knowledge and appreciation of AAUW programs
was her description of her situation as a Junior Professor at the University of Chicago, which has a well-
deserved reputation as being a tough place to be. As well as having her professional duties she had to nish
the manuscript for a rst book and make progress on a second, and to top it off she was pregnant. This was
what really hooked me -the plight of women competing in a male dominant environment with incredible
pressure and also being a mother. She received a Post-Doctoral AAUW Grant which she credits for enabling
her to take her third year off and nish her books and deal with the birth of her daughter.
Her description of her situation reminded me of that of so many women who face the necessity of earning a
living dealing with a male dominated profession. She felt supported by AAUW as a woman, a person and a
scholar and is incredibly proud to be associated with an organization that has done so much to further the
rights of women and expand diversity. She made the point that by supporting a woman and a woman of
color, different questions would be asked and such questions would come from a different perspective. I
think this point is very important and underscores the importance of AAUW’s many efforts for diversity and
women’s achievements. I came away with a greater appreciation for the concrete differences AAUW can
make and also a sense of pride to be part of this organization.
The other point that she made that impressed me was something she credited to her mother. She said her
mother was the one who set all the expectations in the family. She
not only focused on academic achievement, but the importance and
necessity of using knowledge to make a positive impact on the
community.
If you are inspired to support one of these AAUW FUNDS programs it
is not too late to donate. In 2020 one didn’t have to take out funds
from IRA accounts. If you were waiting for 2021 to donate from your
IRAs now is the time. It’s always the season to support the many
meaningful programs that AAUW has created.
Franny Jo Ann Schilling
Fran Erickson
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Nevada County Tech Trek – Virtually Martha Rees
The mantra of our 2020 Nevada County Tech Trek Committee is “Not even a pandemic can stop us
from supporting our Trekkers.” While we continue to look for STEM-related opportunities for our
Trekkers, we also realize that Tech Trek is more than STEM academics and careers. It's about
camaraderie and getting to know like-minded girls who share a passion for STEM, curiosity, and can-
do spirit. Therefore, Stephanie Facchini put together an afternoon “Sunday FunDay” Zoom for our
2020 Trekkers and their mentors offering no stress, a little mess, treats, creativity, and lots of fun.
We provided each participant with a bag of supplies. First off, we tried our
hand at creating fractal cut-out cards to varying degrees of success. For
you who are new to “fractals,” they are in nitely complex patterns that are
self-similar across different scales. They are created by repeating a simple
process over and over in an ongoing feedback loop. (See photo for an
example of our results.) Following the “fractivities,” FunDay attendees took
on the cupcake challenges. Armed with two cupcakes and a variety of
yummy supplies, participants created one with the “Under the Ocean” theme
and the other re ecting “Something STEM.” WOW – talk about innovative
thinking, the results showed wonderful creativity from lovely ocean reefs, a
hungry octopus, lots of ying sh to spaceships, a cricket, a garden, and much more.
Peppered throughout the 2-hour ZOOM, Ava Johnson, 2019 Trekker and current mentor, got
everyone up and doing a variety of stretches while Stephanie offered seasonal jokes and riddles.
(Where does Santa keep all his money? In the local snowbank.) Our time together ended with a
serenade by Mei Lin Heirendt, 2019 Trekker and current mentor, who performed an original song she
based on Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax.” Thanks to Stephanie and all participants for a couple of hours
sharing some laughs and camaraderie.
We’ll report on the 2021 virtual Tech Trek camp next month.
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Local Scholarship New Ann Shulse
Our Local Scholarship recipients have nished their rst term of college, and all agree there were
challenges and disappointments with having online classes. In spite of it, they have become masters
of exibility and adaptation.
One of our recipients is Zara Katzenstein who is attending UC Santa Barbara. Zara graduated from
Nevada Union high school and is double majoring in micro-biology and philosophy. She aspires to be
a pediatric doctor.
I recently heard from Zara who shared a bit about her Covid-style college life. She was determined to actualize at
least part of her dream about what college life should be, so she used Instagram to nd four other young women also
intent on living in Santa Barbara. They found an off-campus apartment, and now they are very best friends!
All her classes are online which is de nitely not what she had envisioned, yet she
is pleased about how many amazing things she has learned. She really liked her
ancient philosophy class where she discovered how much modern science and
ideas have their origins in ancient Greece.
Online school did make getting to know her professors much harder, and at times
she felt very isolated. She did manage to form some important relationships with
her TA’s, and she joined some clubs where she socialized via Zoom with
upperclassmen who gave her advice on classes and surviving college. She feels
lucky to have good friends in her roommates,
especially as stay-at-home orders have ramped
up.
Being in Santa Barbara is exciting because she can walk down to the beach when she
needs a break from the computer screen, which is often! She is also attempting to
learn how to surf. She hasn’t stood up yet, but hopefully will soon!
The new quarter will start in early January, classes will still be online, and thankfully
she will still be living in the same apartment. She is disappointed she will not be going
to classes in person, but she de nitely feels the school has made the right decision.
As a biology major, she is looking for a lab to become involved with as soon as she can.
The class next quarter she is most looking forward to is Underserved Medicine.
Zara thanks AAUW for our generous scholarship and for providing some contact with
home. We wish you well during your second term, Zara, and please stay safe!!
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Many thanks to our past and present AAUW Financial Underwriter
Dignity Health – Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospita
Jazzercise KNCO News Talk 83
Valerie M. Logsdon, Elder Law Attorne
Heather McLaughlin at Blush Salo Please thank our
Dr. Keith Mercer, M.D. MOVE! Fitness Studi supporters when
you patronize
Westamerica Bank – Grass Valley & Penn Valle
their businesses.
Jeremy Sanders, State Farm Insurance Sierra Timberlin
Chris Pratt, CFP ® SPD Market – Nevada City & Grass Valle
Jennifer L Wilkerson, Attorney at La
Special thanks to
Brunswick Village Assisted Living Community The Union and Yuba Net
for use of their meeting room for advertising and promotional support
AAUW State and National are constantly presenting opportunities for us to learn and grow. Below is a
recent communication….
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented economic uncertainty, devastating public health consequences and
sweeping social distancing measures to curb the spread of the virus. The crisis upended how we live, educate and work
While we were unable to meet in person this year, our virtual programming made it possible for us to connect with
more AAUW members and supporters than ever before
In all, we hosted 35 free webinars and virtual events, extending our reach to more than 18,000 people. As this
challenging year draws to a close, we are proud of everything we accomplished together, thanks to the generous
support of AAUW members, allies and corporate partners
We look forward to creating more virtual opportunities in 2021. In the meantime, we thought you might want to
check out—or revisit—the top 5 member webinars in 2020
Holding Space: How to Start and Continue Conversations on Race, Equity and Inclusion AAUW Fellow
alumna Dr.Taharee Jackson leads this conversation on why being able to talk about race is critical
to achieving equity
Interview with Diane Rehm CEO Kim Churches talks with renowned radio host and author Diane Rehm
about how she has managed to remain resilient in the face of challenges and loss
Archeology of the Self: Sustaining Racial Literacy in the Movement for Change AAUW Fellow alumna
Yolanda Sealy-Ruiz takes us on a collective journey of the “Archeology of the Self” — an action-
oriented process requiring love, humility, re ection and a commitment to working against racial
injustice
Is Your Perspective Inclusive? Lisette Garcia, Ph.D., Pamela Fuller and Sheila Amo explore unconscious
bias and what it means to have an inclusive perspective
Perspectives from the AAUW Legal Advocacy Fund: Justice Ginsburg’s Legacy and the Future of the Court
AAUW’s Public Policy team discusses Justice Ginsburg’s legacy and AAUW’s role in shaping
history
Wishing you all the best for a safe, healthy and prosperous new year.
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AAUW Interest Groups
AAUW Interest Groups: If you would like to learn more about the Interest Groups, please see the
leaders' contact information in the AAUW Membership Directory.
Arts and Crafts Stephanie Norton
At this point, Arts & Crafts are still on hiatus until we get clearance to be together. We are looking forward to
that time. Look for information in your Lodestone or contact Stephanie Norton.
AAUW Hikers Rose Tammi
Hikers, try going on Rattlesnake Trail on North Highland (north access) off 174. I haven’t gone the entire way yet, but I did 3.8 miles. It’s an easy
hike. Park at the corner of Rattlesnake and Highland (North Access). Trail is on the right. Call Rose Tammi if you have any questions
The Mostly Fiction Book Discussion Group Robin Laverty-Reves
The Mostly Fiction Book Group will gather for a Zoom meeting on Thursday, January 14th at 1:00 p.m. to discuss The Bartender's
Tale by Ivan Doig. Virginia Kingston and Bup Greenwood will facilitate the discussion. Current book group members will receive
an email reminder of the meeting with instructions to join the meeting. If you are a member of our branch who would like to join
our interest group, please contact Robin Laverty- Reves.
Non-Fiction Book Group Deborah York
The Non-Fiction Book Group will meet Tuesday January 19th, 12:30-2:00 via Zoom to discuss On Earth We’re Briefly
Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong. Thank you Jeanne Scarmon for suggesting this book and for facilitating our discussion. Also to Mary
McClain for encouraging us to read it for our open TBD slot in January. I have just started it and am enjoying it very much. For
more info on our Non-Fiction group, contact Deborah York.
Gardening Group Ellie Anderson
The Gardening Group is on hiatus until the restriction on face-to-face gatherings has been lifted.
Gourmet Adventures Shirley Racine
Gourmet Adventures is on hiatus until the restriction on face-to-face gatherings has been lifted.
Gracious Helpers Pat Pedersen
Gracious Helpers is a branch interest group that provides occasional support for members and their families who need
help with meals due to illness or accident. Contact Pat Pedersen for more information.
Great Decisions Susie Monary-Wilson Great
Decisions will begin the 2021 Season on Tuesday February 23 and we will continue to meet via Zoom until we receive
rd
the “all clear”. The topics for 2021 are: Topic 1: The Role of International Organizations in a Global Pandemic, Topic 2:
Global Supply Chains and National Security, Topic 3: China and Africa, Topic 4: Korean Peninsula, Topic 5: Persian
Gulf Security, Topic 6: Brexit and the European Union, Topic 7: The Fight Over the Melting Arctic, Topic 8: The End of
Globalization? Please contact Susie Monary-Wilson for more information, 470-9272.
Writing Group Deborah York
The Writing Group will meet Tuesday January 12 , 1:30-3:00 via Zoom. We will be discussing Chapter Four: The Flesh
th
Made Word, Characterization Part II from Writing Fiction by Janet Burroway. Please join us if you have an interest in
writing, whatever form or genre that may be. This is a safe place to learn and experiment with writing and a perfect
Covid stay-at-home activity! Contact Deborah York for questions and more info.
Contact information for members is in the Membership Directory.
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Book Review Deborah Yor
Our November Non-Fiction book read, The Book of Eels by Patrik Svensson, was
fascinating, such interesting and mysterious creatures that most of us knew
nothing about. I love the way Non-Fiction has helped us all to grow and learn
about different aspects of life. Books I likely would never have picked up have
really expanded my knowledge and appreciation of the differences among
people and other critters who share our habitat. Did you know that Eels are
spawned deep in the Sargasso Sea? Mankind has never determined exactly
how and where, but they have spent many, many years following them with
sonar-type tags. Eels travel thousands of miles to their new habitats where
they live long, lonely lives in the dark waters of oceans, lakes and rivers.
Eventually, they will return along that same journey to reproduce and die.
Their life forms completely transform several times, and they don’t develop
reproductive organs until they need to.
Inspirational Woma
At the dawn of the 20th century, Mary Anderson went to New York City
for the rst time. She saw a much different New York City than the one
tourists see today. There were no cabs honking, nor were there
thousands of cars vying for position in afternoon traf c. Cars had not
yet captured the American imagination and were quite rare when
Anderson took that trip, but the woman from Alabama would end up
inventing something that has become standard on every automobile. During her
trip, Anderson took a tram through the snow-covered city
She noticed that the driver had to stop the tram every few minutes to wipe the snow off his front
window. At the time, all drivers had to do so; rain and snow were thought to be things drivers had to
deal with, even though they resulted in poor visibility. When she returned home, Anderson
developed a squeegee on a spindle that was attached to a handle on the inside of the vehicle.
When the driver needed to clear the glass, he simply pulled on the handle and the squeegee wiped
the precipitation from the windshield. Anderson received the patent for her device in 1903; just 10
years later, thousands of Americans owned a car with her invention.
From the Internet……
“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial
and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”
Helen Keller
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2021 Webinar
AAUW-CA has developed a series of online workshops to take advantage
of the tremendous opportunity to reach our branches and
members through videoconferencing. We are elated that these workshops
will be an expansion of the prior in-person Leadership Development Days.
They will relate to the four California priorities with a “how to” focus and will
be open to members as well as branch leaders.Check out the list at https://
www.aauw-ca.org/2020-2021-webinars/
AAUW Fund Luncheon
The AAUW Fund advances AAUW’s mission by sustaining all our programs and
activities. Your unrestricted gift to the AAUW Fund helps incubate and disseminate
programs tha
• above all, advance equity for women and girl
• strengthen AAUW’s role in the global communit
• respond to and eradicate the persistent challenges facing women and girl
• leverage new opportunities and attract new audiences to our missio
Meet recent AAUW Fund
Fellows/Grant recipients
at a Zoom luncheon on
January 30th, 2021 from
2:00PM to 4:00PM.
Contact Shirley Zeff for
more details.
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sAAUW Nevada County Branch Box 326 Grass Valley, CA 95945
Web: www.nevadacounty-ca.aauw.net Email: contactinfo@aauwnevadacounty.org
The Lodestone Blog: contactinfo1.aauw@blogger.com
January 2021
AAUW advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. AAUW values
and seeks a diverse membership. There shall be no barriers to full participation in this organization on the basis of
gender, race, creed, sexual orientation, national religion, disability or class. By joining AAUW we belong to a
community that breaks through educational and economic barriers so all women have a fair chance.
YOUR GIFT TO OUR SCHOLARSHIP AND FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMS ENABLES WOMEN
TO BROADEN THEIR HORIZONS THROUGH EDUCATION
Donor’s Name_______________________________________________________________Amount______________________
Address_________________________________________________________________________________________________
(Optional)_In memory / honor of (circle one)__________________________________________________________________
LOCAL SCHOLARSHIPS:
_____Tech Trek [8th grade summer science, technology, engineering, math (STEM) camp]. Please make check payable to AAUW Nevada County Branch. Note Tech Trek
on memo line.
_____Local Scholarships (high school, Sierra College & re-entry). Please make checks payable to AAUW NCB Charitable Trust.
NATIONAL PROGRAMS:
_____ Please make checks payable to the AAUW Fund; National will use your donation where it is most needed to support equity for women. However, you may note a
specific fund, such as the Education and Training Fund or Legal Advocacy Fund (LAF), if you wish.
BRANCH PROGRAMS: Please make your check payable to AAUW - NCB.
_____Angel Fund (dues assistance for members in need). Note Angel Fund on memo line; aid is confidential.
_____Local Branch Operations (Program, Membership, Publicity, Admin. Etc.). Note Branch Operations on memo line.
Mail your donation to AAUW Nevada County Branch, PO Box 326, Grass Valley, CA 95945-0326
Remember: Indicate above to which program you are donating. Write separate checks if you are donating to more than one program.
AAUW Nev. Co. Branch is a 501(c)3 non profit, tax ID number EIN 94-6095030.
The Lodestone is published monthly, September through May in Grass Valley, C
Copy Deadline…………………3rd Saturday of the month
To contact the Nevada County
Page 18Branch……….530-470-9395
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