2016-2018 OFFICERS INSTALLED


Eta Mu officers for the 2016-2018 biennium were installed on May 14, 2016, along with the officers of Alpha Epsilon and Epsilon Nu. The members accepting office for the next biennium are Co-Presidents, Pat Elston and Lynn Lysko; First Vice-President, Janice Freeman; Second Vice-President, Kathleen Heinzinger; Recording Secretary, Linda Chrabas; Treasurer, Adele Little; and Parliamentarian, Carol Vieira.
The Joint Installation of Officers was held at Concetta Restaurant in Modesto. Area XVII Director, Barbara Nash officiated along with Daphne Cagle, California State First Vice President. Members attending the event enjoyed a lovely luncheon and entertainment by the Keynote Kitchenaires, a local group of retirees, who sang many old favorites.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

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On April 19, fifteen Eta Mu members attended a meeting at LearningQuest-Stanislaus Literacy Centers in downtown Modesto. After a wine and cheese reception hosted by the literacy center, Karen Williams, executive director, spoke about the scope of services offered -- literacy, family literacy, ESL, Adult Basic Education, and high school diploma equivalency programs. Two adult students, who had been recipients of Literacy Network of Stanislaus County awards, related their personal stories of overcoming barriers to achieve their goals. Following a tour of the facilities and opportunities for questions, the group adjourned to Fuzio's for dinner. 

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 At the October meeting of Eta Mu speaker Lynn Dickerson shared her story, “How the Gallo Center Saved Me.” During a time of crisis in her life Lynn was offered an opportunity to oversee the operation of the non-profit performing arts center in downtown Modesto.  Lynn had lost her son to an accidental drowning, and she herself was struggling to survive the tragedy. Her return to Modesto gave her a renewed purpose.  She is responsible for booking, donor relations, operations, sales and marketing. Lynn shared her journey after her son’s death as well as the work she is currently doing at the Gallo Center. Eta Mu thanks Lynn for sharing her story with us.​
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At the December meeting guest speaker, Lori Aderholt, from World Relief Modesto, a resettlement agency for refugees in Stanislaus County, informed members of the organizations efforts as well as partnerships with churches, individuals, and the community to assist refugees transitioning to their new life in the U.S.  Mrs. Aderholt explained the rigorous screening that each refugee must pass before being admitted into the United States. She asked members to consider volunteering time to tutor newcomers or donations of supplies and household items to help settle the new families