Kenton Soroptimist President Karen Kier opened the May 2023 meeting and welcomed guests Sheree Ford, Soroptimist Midwestern Region Governor Christine Shearer, Pat Smith and Maria Santo. Members recited the Pledge of Allegiance and Soroptimist Grace before enjoying a lovely meal prepared by the Elks staff.
The president's report included an update from the regional spring conference held in Ann Arbor Michigan. The Kenton club received an Excellent Club award from the Governor. The club basket received a second place ribbon for the theme of Mind the Gap.
Club delegates and members that attended the conference shared their experiences. They reported on the workshops, an official visitor, award winners and fun activities. Several members came home with raffle baskets.
A membership challenge was presented by Ruth Ann Cook. Every member that brings a guest that joins at the June meeting will be given a chance to win a special prize.
Kier reported that she voted for SIA President on behalf of the club. SIA has made available a Canva Template specific to Soroptimist and it is available for use in presentations or printed material. She further advised the Treasurer’s report included a reminder that dues are due at the June meeting. Dream it Be it program was canceled for now and the committee will continue to work on a program.
Committee reports included an update on the Rose Garden. Brian Holder has trimmed things up and replaced several roses. Annetta Holmes reported on the Quilt Day activities. Safe Haven will be the recipient of the Radio Day Auction on August 12 and Deb Oestreich advised that donated items are needed. Their Purse Bingo fundraiser will be held July 21. Jessica Hinson reported on Hardin Leadership activities and what they are learning. Final report on Luna Fest was given by Missie Austin. Deb Oestreich reported the smoke alarm committee is good and replacement inventory not needed.
All one hundred squares for the Laurel Society membership were sold. Hope Myers explained what the Laurel Society does and a winning name was pulled. Shirley Green will be the newest member to the society.
Speaker for the meeting was Sheree Ford, a registered forensic nurse with Ohio Health. She advised there are about 10 S.A.N.E. nurses that are home-based in Marion. S.A.N.E. stands for sexual assault nurse examiner. They are trained to provide trauma-informed, patient centered care to patients who are victims of trauma including sexual assault, domestic violence, human/sex trafficking, elder/child abuse and sex abuse of a child. They are specially trained in evidence collection, injury identification and photography. She spoke of her experience of working with a victim advocate, law enforcement and the judicial system.
Names were drawn for the Club 250 raffle and the meeting concluded by members reciting the Soroptimist Pledge. The next Soroptimist meeting will be June 1, 2023 at the Elks. Social at 5:30 and dinner/meeting at 6:00 p.m.
