GREATER GRAND RAPIDS CHAPTER

2012-01-12T16:26:00.000-08:00

JANUARY 2012

NOTES FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK
Greetings!

Welcome to 2012! How excited are you about the New Year? An analogy I recently heard says it all: a new year is a clean piece of paper. There isn’t anything written on the page and it’s ready to be filled with all the possibilities that present themselves.
We had a busy 2011, and had a great many accomplishments. I’m looking forward to all the exciting things that are being planned for the New Year. The possibilities are endless! It’s going to be a wonderful year!
I would like you to remember that we have members who need our continued good thoughts and prayers.

Until next month,
Happy Stitching!
Carolyn

JANUARY CALENDAR
16 – Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
20 – NEWSLETTER INFORMATION due
26 - Evening Meeting - Thursday 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
27 - Day Meeting - Friday 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church

DAY PROGRAM
Bring your collection of antique and unusual buttons to share with the group, and your UFOs to stitch on.
HOST: Dick H.

EVENING PROGRAM

Jane will go over the Stitch Notebook cover pattern – It will be available for purchase at the meeting for $5.00.

OUR MEMBERS

We want to express our heartfelt sympathy to Susan D. and her family on the recent passing of her mother. This has been a difficult time for her family.

CHAPTER NEWS
2011 CHRISTMAS PARTY

The GGREGA Christmas Party was held on Thursday, December 8.. We were at Pietro's in Grand Rapids, and were able to enjoy a wonderful evening of visiting with fellow members. Members of the Program Committee and the daytime representative were installed, gifts were given and everyone enjoyed their meal.

Many thanks to the Christmas Committee for their time and effort in creating a great Christmas party: Jane W., Betty H., Alice R. and Kelly L.

UPCOMING PROJECTS

Gay Ann Rogers has agreed to make the Canvaswork Needle Book project that Nancy showed at the Christmas Party available to our EGA chapter. The cost will be $35.00 plus shipping. The supplied list and exact cost will be in the next newsletter.

UPDATED MEMBERSHIP LIST
An updated membership list is now available. Contact the Newsletter Editor or Membership Chair.

NEWSLETTER ITEMS

Any member may submit items to be published in the newsletter. Anything received by the 20th of the month will be included in the following month’s newsletter. The items can be of general needlework interest or specific to this chapter.

INFORMATION FROM EGA NATIONAL
On-line course offerings from January to February 2012 are:
1. Cutwork, Shadow Work and Trapunto written by Luan Callery
2. Embroidery with Mixed Media by Laura Smith

NeedleArts offering from December 2011 to February 2012 are:
1. Assisi by Marion Scoular
2. Lady Larkspur Necklace by Jeanette Carmichael

More information and registration forms may be found at
http://www.egausa.org/html/correspondence_courses.html

INFORMATION FROM GLR EGA
GLR OPPORTUNITY BASKETS REQUESTED
Once again, we are asking for baskets to be donated to GLR for the Opportunity Baskets during Seminar 2012 in Green Bay. All Region chapters are encouraged to bring or send a basket from your chapter to assist the general operating fund. Raffle tickets are sold and participants drop them into the basket of their choice with one winner per basket. Have fun with your chapter members creating a themed basket or even a one-piece type of entry!!!
Carmen Heare, Fundraising Chair

UPCOMING 2012 EVENTS
February is National Embroidery Month
Feb 4 ―Stitch in Public Day

April 15-18 - Fiber Forum Retreat at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, TN.

Registration is open to all EGA members and also those outside EGA from now until February 1. Our teacher will be felting artist Geri Forkner. She will focus our workshop on “Felted Surfaces for Embroiderers'”. You can download the informational handout at the Fiber Forum website:
http://www.egausa.org/html/fiber_forum.html

April 22-26, 2012 – GLR Seminar Stitch Down in Titletown in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Information about the Seminar is here:
www.egaglr.org/GLR2012Booklet.pdf
Registration form is here:
www.ega-glr.org/GLR2012RegistrationForm.pdf

July 28 - Michigan State Day hosted by the Marshall Chapter.

Sept 21 - GLR Executive Committee and GLR Executive Board of Directors at the Indianapolis
Marriott East

Sept 22 - GLR Semiannual Meeting at the Indianapolis Marriott East

Oct 28- Santa Fe Enchantment‖EGA Seminar 2012

Nov 2 - in Santa Fe, NM Hosted by Rocky Mountain Region

REMINDER
Some of our members are allergic to or sensitive to perfumes, aftershaves and other scents. Our EGA Meetings will be Perfume /Aftershave /Scent-Free out of consideration for those who have these sensitivities.

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER
Our chapter newsletter is provided to our members in different ways: through US mail; via email; and online at www.ega-ggr.blogspot.com When you can’t access your email or find your newsletter, you can always find our newsletter online at our BlogSpot.

2011-12-07T08:11:00.000-08:00

DECEMBER 2011

NOTES FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK
Greetings!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. It is a holiday that quite often gets short changed. We have much to be thankful for in our lives.
How are your preparations for the holidays going? Are you running in circles, trying to start (or
finish) shopping, getting cards and letters written and ready to mail, planning meals, and looking at a schedule that is just plain crazy, and trying to finish projects that you have put off until the last minute!? Or do you have everything done, and are able to spend time relaxing with one of your own projects?
During the past few years, I have scaled back on gift giving by a considerable amount, and now focus on enjoying the time spent with family and friends. The memories that are made each year are what is most important, it’s not the things we accumulate.
No matter what you are doing, please take a moment and be in the moment!
Wishing each and every one a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Until next month,
Happy Stitching!
Carolyn

DECEMBER CALENDAR
5 – Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
8 – GGREGA Christmas Party – Thursday at 6:00 PM – Pietro’s Restaurant, Grand Rapids
20 – NEWSLETTER INFORMATION due
No AM or PM Meetings

CHAPTER NEWS
2011 Christmas Party

The GGREGA Christmas Party will be held on Thursday, December 8 at Pietro's (on 28th St. near Breton. Pietro's offers a semi-private room (the Champagne Room) in their Pietro's Back Door area. The menu is less expensive, more extensive, the food and service are excellent, and it is a bit more centrally located. Although they call themselves an Italian restaurant, they also have steaks, chicken, chops, veal, and of course, great pasta.

We will be following this schedule:
5:30 PM - drinks,
6:00 PM - Brief Business meeting
and Officer Initiation
6:30 PM - dinner.
The Ornament Exchange will take place after dinner.
We will be collecting hats, scarves and mittens for needy children.

If you wish to go to the Christmas Party but were not be able to attend the October meeting, please contact Kelly L, as she will be providing Pietro’s with the number of attendees so that enough tables are set up for us.

If you have any questions about the Christmas Party, please contact the Christmas Party committee volunteers: Jane W, Betty H, Alice R, and Kelly L.

Chapter Bylaws

Some of our members have asked for information contained in our Chapter Bylaws. This is to remind you that our bylaws are available 24-7 on our BlogSpot at egaggr.blogspot.com. In the left column under Blog Archive, click on 2009. All of the newsletters from 2009 will come up, along with our bylaws that were approved in 2009. Scroll down the page and you will find the bylaws posted midway between the Sept/Oct and the May/Aug newsletters.

Newsletter Items

INFORMATION FROM NATIONAL EGA
The December issue of the Inside EGA Newsletter available now at the following link:
www.egausa.org/files/insid_eega/InsideEGA_Dec11.pdf

INFORMATION FROM GLR EGA
GLR Opportunity Baskets

Once again, we are asking for baskets to be donated to GLR for the Opportunity Baskets during Seminar 2012 in Green Bay. All Region chapters are encouraged to bring or send a basket from your chapter to assist the general operating fund. Raffle tickets are sold and participants drop them into the basket of their choice with one winner per basket. Have fun with your chapter members creating a themed basket or even a one-piece type of entry!!! Carmen H, Fundraising Chair.

UPCOMING 2012 EVENTS
February is National Embroidery Month
Feb 4 ―Stitch in Public Day
April 15-18 - Fiber Forum

Retreat at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, TN. Registration is open to all EGA members and also those outside EGA from now until February

1. Our teacher will be felting artist Geri Forkner. She will focus our workshop on “Felted Surfaces for Embroiderers'”. You can download the informational handout at the Fiber Forum website: www.egausa.org/html/fiber_forum.html

April 22-26, 2012 – GLR Seminar Stitch Down in Titletown in Green Bay, Wisconsin

Information about the Seminar is here => www.ega-glr.org/GLR2012Booklet.pdf
Note that GLR chapter members will be given preference for class assignments through December 31. After December 15, non-GLR registrations will be processed according to the postmark.

Registration form is here =>www.ega-glr.org/GLR2012RegistrationForm.pdf

Hotel Reservations are now being accepted at The Hyatt Hotel on Main. When making reservations, please tell them that you are with The Embroiderers' Guild of America/Great Lakes Region Seminar (not just the Great Lakes Region Seminar).

July 28 - Michigan State Day hosted by the Marshall Chapter.
Sept 21 - GLR Executive Committee and GLR Executive Board of Directors at the Indianapolis
Marriott East
Sept 22 - GLR Semiannual Meeting at the Indianapolis Marriott East
Oct 28- Santa Fe Enchantment‖ EGA Seminar 2012
Nov 2 - in Santa Fe, NM Hosted by Rocky Mountain Region

Reminder

Some of our members are allergic to or sensitive to perfumes, aftershaves and other scents. Our EGA Meetings will be Perfume /Aftershave /Scent-Free out of consideration for those who have these sensitivities.

Chapter Newsletter

Our chapter newsletter is provided to our members in different ways: through US mail; via email; and online at www.ega-ggr.blogspot.com When you can’t access your email or find your newsletter, you can always find our newsletter online at our BlogSpot.

2011-11-04T14:15:00.000-07:00

NOVEMBER 2011

NOTES FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK

Greetings!

Many of our members are facing personal challenges and need to be remembered. Last week Susan D.’s husband, Jim, passed away, and we extend our condolences to her and her family. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Recently I had an opportunity to see a friend working on an interesting piece of stitching. It was not something I probably would have picked up on my own, but watching her stitch, seeing the fabric she used as well as the fibers, made me think I’d like to add it to my stitching stash.

While I was gathering the fabric and fibers, I overheard another person say something about copying her idea. The friend replied that she thought it was great, and was flattered that someone would want to stitch the same thing.

How many times have we chosen a piece to stitch because we saw someone else’s project, or a shop sample? It is always more interesting to see the actual project than a one dimensional picture, and to see how a stitcher interprets a design.

Sometimes I will change a color, or, in the case of samplers, change names, dates, and verses. However, for the most part I stitch as the designer intended. I wonder if stitchers in the past did the same thing? Did they see someone stitching a piece and like it? Were designs jotted down and shared? Were the groups of women who got together much like those of us today, getting together to stitch and share? Obviously, the answer is yes, or our craft, like so many others would be in jeopardy of being lost. Undoubtedly, the first sharing was between mother and daughter, much like my own daughter and me. She watched me stitching; asked if she could learn to do cross-stitching, and the rest is our history.

This is not to advocate photocopying but to advocate the idea of sharing our craft with others, teaching a technique, helping choose fabrics and fibers, teaching various stitches and the use of colors. Without each other to learn from, we risk the continuation of the historical significance of our needlework heritage.

Thankfully, we have many examples of what our ancestors stitched. We can stitch them as they did, or make them our own.

Until next month,
Happy Stitching!
Carolyn

CALENDAR
November
4 – Sampler Group - Friday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
12 - * * * * * UPDATE * * * * * Stitch-In at Kris C's house in Holland - 10 AM to ? - Contact her for directions.
20 – NEWSLETTER INFORMATION due
No AM or PM Meetings

December
5 – Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
8 – GGREGA Christmas Party – Thursday at 6:00 PM – Pietro’s Restaurant, Grand Rapids
20 – NEWSLETTER INFORMATION due
No AM or PM Meetings

CHAPTER NEWS
2011 Christmas Party

We will be following this schedule:
5:30 PM - drinks,
6:00 PM - brief Business meeting
and Officer Initiation
6:30 PM - dinner.
The Ornament Exchange will take place after dinner.

We will be collecting hats, scarves and mittens for needy children.

If you wish to go to the Christmas Party but were not be able to attend the October meeting, please contact Kelly L., as she will be providing Pietro’s with the number of attendees so that enough tables are set up for us.

If you have any questions about the Christmas Party, please contact the Christmas Party committee volunteers: Jane W., Betty H., Alice R. and Kelly L.

2012-2013 Officers

We are still in need of a volunteer for the 2012 Chapter Secretary. This person will need to attend the evening meeting and publish the meeting minutes for the evening meeting. We are also in need of a Workshops Chair. Please contact Carolyn or Kelly if you are interested.
The Programs position for evening will be filled by a committee consisting of Jane W., Betty H. and Alice R.
Vonnie H. has volunteered for the position of AM Liaison, a key position in our chapter structure where we have both evening and day group meetings.
Many thanks to the volunteers who keep this chapter functioning smoothly!

Update: Great UFO Challenge Event

Alice has now completed 3 UFOs from the list she submitted. As she is the only one in the prize drawing, the rest of us need to get busy so that she doesn’t make a clean sweep of it!
{Reminder: you can still sign up for the Great UFO Challenge event by providing your list of UFOs (must have been started before 2010) to any of the GGREGA officers. You can take your own “before” photos or bring the evidence to a meeting or stitch-in where it will be photographed. The period of the challenge is May 2011 through May 2012.}

Newsletter Items

UPCOMING EGA EVENTS
April 22-26, 2012 – GLR Seminar
Stitch Down in Titletown Green Bay, Wisconsin
Information about the Seminar is here:
www.ega-glr.org/GLR2012Booklet.pdf
Registration form is here:
www.ega-glr.org/GLR2012RegistrationForm.pdf
Hotel Reservations are now being accepted at the Hyatt Hotel on Main. When making reservations, please tell them that you are with The Embroiderers' Guild of America/Great Lakes Region Seminar (not just the Great Lakes Region Seminar).

REMINDER

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER

2011-10-05T05:02:00.000-07:00

OCTOBER 2011

NOTES FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK
Greetings!

First of all let me extend condolences to our EGA member, Marilyn Berghorst on the recent passing of her mother; and to Judy Fox, former member, who is also in need of our prayers and thoughts on the passing of her mother this past week. It is a time of change for them and for many others.

The really hot weather is over and fall is rapidly approaching. The trees are changing, colors on the birds are changing colors as well; some birds are departing, while others are arriving. I have found myself looking at new projects, and realize that, just like the seasons, my tastes have changed over the years. The beginning of my obsession with cross stitching was like spring; new and exciting. I could hardly wait to get started. (I still have my first piece!) As I got better at cross stitching, I looked for new areas of interest; to anticipate what designers would produce, and to try my hand with different fabrics and fibers.

The past few months Nancy has taught our group mini pieces of hardanger, pulled and drawn thread. I’ve changed again! These are types of stitching that I would not have tried earlier. Perhaps because I wasn’t ready or that the projects were too intimidating. But now the season seems right to give something new a try. As in all areas of life, change happens. I think it’s a bit daunting as well as exciting to see what will happen in each one.

Happy Stitching!
Carolyn

CALENDAR
October
10 – Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
20 – NEWSLETTER INFORMATION due
27 - Board Meeting - Thursday at 5:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
27 - Evening Meeting - Thursday 7:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
28 - Day Meeting - Friday 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church

DAY GROUP PROGRAM
October
Bring your UFOs to work on.
Hostess: Vonnie H.

EVENING GROUP PROGRAM
October

Nancy will be presenting the final item in the Sewing Basket smalls that she designed for our chapter – a waxer bag. Additionally, Pat Pike will be available to assist those of us who have run into issues while completing the fabulous Dragonfly Pendant from last month.

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER CHANGES

You are probably wondering why this newsletter is so close to the last one – it’s not your imagination. Due to feedback from our members, the GGREGA Board has voted that the newsletter will be published every month. The newsletter will be smaller as less content will have to be sent to you each time. The hope is that the newsletter information will be more timely and accurate going forward. Information to be included in the next monthly newsletter will be due to the editor on the 20th of each month. The newsletter will come out on the first week of each month.

2011 CHRISTMAS PARTY
* * * * * UPDATE * * * * *

The location has changed. The GGREGA Christmas Party will be held on Thursday, December 8 at Pietro's Restaurant. More information available at October's meeting.

The exact final cost per person depends on the menu selected, and we expect it to be the same or less than previous Christmas Party dinners. As always, alcoholic drinks will be at individual choice – a cash bar will be available.
Please come to the October meeting ready to make your menu selection and reservation.
The schedule and agenda for the party will be the same as in the past - drinks at 5:30 PM, brief Business meeting and Officer Initiation at 6:00 PM, with dinner at 6:30 PM. The Ornament Exchange is expected to be the highlight of the evening as it always is - your editor is still in awe of the exquisite ornaments exchanged last year. (For our new members, participation in the Ornament Exchange is optional and admiration of the creations of our very talented members is open to all.)
We will be collecting hats, scarfs, and mittens for needy children.
If you wish to go to the Christmas Party but will not be able to attend the October meeting, please contact Alice R. with your reservation.
If you have any questions about the Christmas Party, please contact the Christmas Party Committee volunteers: Jane W., Betty H., Alice R., or Kelly L.

MEMBER DIRECTORY
This year the member directory will be sent to you via an email attachment. Two versions are available - a PDF file which everyone should be able to open and print. It is also available as an Excel spreadsheet which can be updated if you have Excel on your computer.
For members who receive the newsletter in hard copy, it is included in this newsletter mailing.
If you'd like the Excel version of the directory or have corrections to the information in the directory, please contact Betty H.

2012 NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Volunteers for the Nominating Committee for 2012 officers are needed. Positions that need to be filled for 2012 are:
Chapter Secretary
2nd Vice-President/Workshops
3rd Vice-President/Programs PM
4th Vice-President/Liaison AM
Please contact Carolyn or Kelly if you are interested in being on the Nominating Committee or taking one of the open positions.

GREAT UFO CHALLENGE EVENT
Alice is the first member who has completed a UFO from the list she submitted. As she is the only one in the prize drawing, the rest of us need to get busy so that she doesn't make a clean sweep of it.
Reminder: You can still sign up for the Great UFO Challenge event by providing your list of UFOs (must have been started before 20100 to any of the GGREGA officers. You can take your own "before" photos or bring evidence to a meeting or stitch-in where it will be photographed. The period of the challenge is May 2011 through May 2012.

GROUP CORRESPONDENCE COURSE
At the September meetings, several members indicated that they are interested in participating in a GCC sponsored by Great Lakes Region. The advantage of taking a GCC from GLR is that the $175 group fee is underwritten by GLR. This means that as few or as many members may sign up at the same cost. (Please note, however, that GLR’s fee is more than that charged by National since GLR does include an additional fee for postage to mail out materials and to return the critiqued pieces. See the GLR website for the fee charged for each class.)
Because GLR’s registration deadline is November 1, members must decide by the October meeting whether or not they wish to participate. If we choose to participate, checks to cover the course fee will be collected at the October meetings. If you wish to participate but will not be able to attend the October meeting, or if you have any questions, please contact Margie. (Courses available are listed under Educational Opportunities.)

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
EGA Group Correspondence Courses

NeedleArts Quarterly Offerings
* Hummingbird and Honeysuckle, Teacher: Luan Callery, $60
* Circle With Blue Flower, Teacher: Margaret Kinsey, $80
Register for EGA Group Correspondence
courses at this link =>
http://www.egausa.org/html/correspondence_courses.html

2012 GLR Correspondence Course Selections
* Spring Splendor (Silk and Metal), Teacher: Kay Stanis, $60.00
* Floral Whimsy (Beading), Teacher: Peggy Wright, $68.00
* How To’s of Swedish Naversom, Teacher: Phyllis Maurer, $70.00
* Florentine and Tulips (Canvas), Teacher: Gail Stafford, $60.00
* Moonlight Sonata (Hardanger), Teacher: Cindy Valentine, $70.00
* Roses (Blackwork), Teacher: Carol Algie Higginbotham, $60.00
* Star Studded Samplings (Blackwork Sampler), Teacher: Ilse Altherr, $62.50
* Crewel Choices, Teacher: Judy Jeroy, $60.00
* Summer Dream (Stumpwork), Luan Callery, $60.00
* Blue Heaven: Temari II, Teacher: Barbara Suess, $70.00
EGA offers many educational opportunities through its Group Correspondence Courses. For details regarding course content and the approximate cost of supplies, please refer to the Group Correspondence Course section of the Education Catalog that is available online at the EGA website, www.egausa.org.
Registration deadline is Nov. 1, 2011.
(Please contact Margie if you are interested in enrolling in these courses.)

REMINDER
Some of our members are allergic to or sensitive to perfumes, aftershaves and other scents. Our EGA Meetings will be Perfume /Aftershave /Scent-Free out of consideration for those who have these sensitivities.

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER
Our chapter newsletter is provided to our members in different ways: through US mail; via email; and online at www.ega-ggr.blogspot.com When you can’t access your email or find your newsletter, you can always find our newsletter online at our BlogSpot.

2011-09-03T18:17:00.000-07:00

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2011

NOTES FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK
Greetings!

Whew! What a month of heat!!!! I hope everyone stayed well, cool, and hydrated!

It seems that with the heat came a bit of lethargy, and I didn’t stitch as much as I had hoped. Perhaps it was just the thought of the heat, or not wanting to get sweaty hands on the fabric (even though I knew that wouldn’t happen) or maybe it was just the time to take a stitching break.

For the past few weeks I have been looking through old magazines, and charts. There are certainly many things I would like to stitch! However, there are just as many patterns that I am no longer interested in stitching. Hummmm! What to do, what to do?! The ones I have pulled out of my stash are now languishing in tote bags until I decide.
That said, it seems like lately I have really been re-evaluating what I want to spend my time stitching. The UFO challenge pieces are still ones I like, so they will be finished, but some other things I thought I liked, maybe not so much.
There are things we all like at various times in our stitching lives. Those interests change over time, and it’s the best of all worlds when we can appreciate what others are experiencing for the first time. Fortunately there are many forms of needlework for everyone!
Continue to stitch what you enjoy, try something new, or take a break and reflect. It’s wonderfully refreshing!

Happy Stitching!
Carolyn

CALENDAR
September Dates
10 – Stitch-In - Saturday from 9:30 AM to ?? at Alice’s house
12 – Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
22 - Board Meeting - Thursday, 5:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
22 - Evening Meeting - Thursday 7:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
23 - Day Meeting - Friday 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church

October Dates
1 – UPDATE - Stitch-In - CANCELLED and rescheduled for October 22
10 – Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
15 – NEWSLETTER INFORMATION due
22 – UPDATE - Stitch-In - Saturday from 9:30 AM to ?? at Geri J-B’s house way up north
27 - Board Meeting - Thursday, 5:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
27 - Evening Meeting - Thursday 7:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
28 - Day Meeting - Friday 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church

DAY PROGRAMS
September: Bring your UFOs to work on. Please contact Margie if interested in being the hostess for this meeting.
October: Bring your UFOs to work on.
Hostess: Vonnie H.

EVENING PROGRAMS
September: Pat Pike will be teaching a Dragonfly Necklace/Pendant. The kit will be available in assorted colors for $12. Please bring sharp embroidery scissors.

REMINDER
Some of our members are allergic to or sensitive to perfumes, aftershaves and other scents. Our EGA Meetings will be Perfume /Aftershave /Scent-Free out of consideration for those who have these sensitivities.

GREAT UFO CHALLENGE EVENT

For those unfortunate enough to have missed the sign-up at the May potluck (as your editor did), you may still participate by providing your list of UFOs to any of the GGREGA officers.
You can take your own “before” photos or bring the evidence to a meeting or stitch-in where it will be photographed. The period of the challenge is May 2011 through May 2012.

CHAPTER NEWS
* * * * * UPDATE * * * * Group Correspondence Course Options

Chapter members were given an opportunity this past spring to sign an interest sheet for a GCC. The majority of members showed an equal interest in doing either Dresden Garden or Liesel-Schwalm. We'll select only one of them, if there is enough interest, to begin January 2012. In September and October, you'll have an opportunity to sign up for either one, with a deadline of November 1. We would like a minimum of at least 6 participants, making the cost of the course about $30 each plus the cost of notebook and supplies, an additional $40-$60 each. Once the course and participants are determined, we will select a time and place to meet.

Another option is for members to sign up for a GCC sponsored by our Great Lakes Region. You can see those choices at the end of this newsletter or on the Great Lakes Region website www.ega-glr.org. The advantage of this option is that the region underwrites these GCCs and even only one or two members can sign up without the expense of the teacher fees, paying only the notebook and supply expenses. We will also have a sign-up for these GLR sponsored GCCs in September and October with a deadline of November 1.

For further information about either of these options, please contact Margie.

Saturday Stitch-Ins

Everyone thought these were such a good idea, they’ll be held on the 2nd Saturday of the month for the rest of the year – excluding December. As the Gaines Township Library increased the rent for the conference room dramatically, the stitch-ins will be held at different locations during the year. Alice has volunteered to host the September stitch-in on Saturday, 9/10.

2012 Workshops
The Board is researching option for needlework teachers for 2012 and beyond. If you’ve enjoyed a teacher or wanted to take a class from someone, please let a Board member know.

Program Director for 2012

Nancy will have completed 4 years as our program director in December. At that time, a new program director will be needed. As Nancy is a hard act to follow, a Program committee been suggested as an option. The committee would consist of 2 or 3 people and each one would be responsible for the meeting program on 2 0r 3 evenings throughout the year. Please let your Board know if you are in favor of this idea or have alternative suggestions.

Christmas Party Planning

Yes, it’s that time again. Jane W.,Betty H., Alice R. and Kelly L. have volunteered as the Planning Committee. The possible dates for the party this year are December 1st or 8th. Possibilities being investigated are (1) catering a dinner at the Methodist Church downtown and (2) talking with Hollie’s Landing about alternatives to the private room requiring a commitment for 30 dinners. If you have alternate suggestions for the Christmas Party, please contact one of the Planning Committee members.

GREAT LAKES REGION EGA NEWS
Corinne Clift has stepped down as Director of the Great Lakes Region and been replaced by the former Assistant Regional Director, Terry Butz. Following is the GLR Director’s letter received from Terry.

In early September, I will be attending the two-day EGA Board of Directors meeting in Naples, Florida. While there I don’t expect to be soaking up much sun, but I am looking forward to soaking up a lot of information, strategies and ideas that will help the Great Lakes Region address its goals and programs. If there are questions, comments or suggestions you would like to share with me before I leave on September 6, please let me know (920-729-9922 or
terryb54952 at yahoo.com). I will report back to GLR at the Semiannual meeting on September 24.

During the Semiannual Meeting (see further details in this newsletter), the Region Board will be electing officers for the 2012-2014 term. The slate is published in this newsletter. Not all positions on the slate have been filled. If you or someone from your chapter is interested in serving the Region in any of these positions, please contact Sally Svoboda, Nominating Committee chair, 330-207-2992, ssvoboda at zoominternet.net. Nominations may also be made from the floor during the Semiannual meeting, however consent to serve shall have been obtained in writing from a floor-nominated candidate before placing that candidate’s name on the slate. It is urgent that candidates understand the responsibilities, time requirements and importance of each office or position for which they are nominated.

GLR has two opportunities each year to come together for a face-to-face meeting. These are times for chapters to become familiar and involved with the programs and responsibilities of the Region Board. Through its Mission Statement, as well as via its Bylaws and Policies & Procedures, the Region has outlined goals to meet our requirements as a non-profit organization.
It is important that our member chapters and their individual members participate in leading and directing those efforts so that we can successfully accomplish our goals. It takes more than just the Executive Committee and the Executive Board of Directors to make our organization work. If you are asked to fill a position as a standing chair or other leadership position, please consider accepting. We need your help.

Our premier event and Annual Meeting occurs April 22-26, 2012. Our destination will be Green Bay, Wisconsin, where we will meet at “Stitch Down in Titletown” for GLR Seminar 2012. Registration will be opening soon. Each chapter will be receiving registration forms and brochures with information and photos on all classes and activities that will be available. Registration procedures and deadlines will be published along with the brochure. This material will also be posted on the GLR website: ega-glr.org. Don't miss out on this fun event.

During the next several months, I look forward to guiding the Region through the programs and issues that come before us. forward to guiding the Region through the programs and issues that come before us. I am anticipating getting to know many of you better and finding ways that we can work together to accomplish the goals of the Great Lakes Region.

Terry Butz, Region Director

2011 GLR EGA Semiannual Meeting
The Semiannual meeting of the Great Lakes Region Board will be held September 24th at 9:00 am at the Indianapolis Marriot East. Among the items that will be included on the agenda is a vote on the dues increase motion, adoption of a budget for 2012 and the election of officers and nominating committee.
The Dues Increase Motion reads as follows: The Executive Committee recommends that the Great Lakes Region increase the annual dues from $1.00 to $5.00 annual dues per primary individual chapter member and per plural member whose primary chapter is not in the Great Lakes Region.
Your chapter’s ballot and discussion materials were emailed to the chapter officers listed in the Great Lakes Region Chapter Officers Directory. Each chapter may cast one ballot for the dues increase and one ballot for the election of officers. If your chapter does not have a representative attending the Semiannual meeting, these voting documents should be submitted via mail to Wendy Moore, GLR Secretary, 17383 Whistler Drive, Brownstown, MI 48173-8640 or via email at wenstan at comcast.net. Note the deadline for sending in the ballots has been extended to September 15, 2011.

GLR EGA Slate of Officers for 2012-2014 Announced
The Nominating Committee of 2010-2012 announces the following slate of officers for the 2012-2014 term of office: Director: Terry Butz, Fox Valley, Wisconsin
Assistant Director: Mike Farmer, North Coast, Ohio
Treasurer: Graciela Aubey, Madison Area, Wisconsin
Secretary: no candidate named
Nominating Committee: no candidate named
The ballot for this slate of officers is available in this newsletter. According to GLR Bylaws nominations from the floor may be presented at the Semiannual Meeting. Consent to serve shall have been obtained in writing from a floor-nominated candidate before placing that candidate’s
name on the slate. Those elected will assume office at the close of the GLR Annual Meeting in 2012.
Presented by the GLR Nominating Committee 2010-2012
Sally Svoboda, chair; Jane Farber, Linda Busalacchi, and Joyce Kinnally
[Editor’s note: Biographies of the nominees for the GLR EGA slate of officers are available – please let me if you want to see them.]

2012 Great Lakes Region Exhibit

Great Lakes Region 2012 Seminar will host an exhibit of region members works on Wednesday April 25th. You are encouraged to show two completed stitched pieces in a non-juried exhibit. Include projects from previous seminars, master craftsman and correspondence courses. If you are not attending seminar, send your pieces with someone who will be there. We will not accept mailed entries. If you are interested in participating, contact:

Karen Wojahn
GLR Seminar 2012 Registrar
426 Woodfield Drive
Green Bay, WI 54313
920-662-0799
GLR2012 at new.rr.com

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
EGA Group Correspondence Courses:
Online Offerings –

September and October
Liesel – Schwalm Embroidery, Teacher: Barbara Kershaw, $80
Blue Heaven: Temari II, Teacher: Barbara Suess, $70

NeedleArts Quarterly Offerings
Hummingbird and Honeysuckle, Teacher: Luan Callery, $60
Circle With Blue Flower, Teacher: Margaret Kinsey, $80

Register for EGA Group Correspondence
courses at this link =>http://www.egausa.org/html/correspondence_courses.html

2012 GLR Correspondence Course Selections
Spring Splendor (Silk and Metal), Teacher: Kay Stanis, $60.00
Floral Whimsy (Beading), Teacher: Peggy Wright, $68.00
How To’s of Swedish Naversom, Teacher: Phyllis Maurer, $70.00
Florentine and Tulips (Canvas), Teacher: Gail Stafford, $60.00
Moonlight Sonata (Hardanger), Teacher: Cindy Valentine, $70.00
Roses (Blackwork), Teacher: Carol Algie Higginbotham, $60.00
Star Studded Samplings (Blackwork Sampler), Teacher: Ilse Altherr, $62.50
Crewel Choices, Teacher: Judy Jeroy, $60.00
Summer Dream (Stumpwork), Luan Callery, $60.00
Blue Heaven: Temari II, Teacher: Barbara Suess, $70.00

EGA offers many educational opportunities through its Group Correspondence Courses. Chapters are not able to offer every course that would meet all the interests of every member of their group. To that end, the GLR offers a select group of classes each year that allows chapter members to pursue their interests without having to form a group from their home chapter. The GLR GCC Coordinator serves as the liaison between the class participants and the designers/teachers. You will not have a local group leader and you will be stitching on your own.
Many exciting new classes are being offered for 2012 as well as some outstanding perennials. Many techniques and all skill levels are represented. For details regarding course content and the approximate cost of supplies, please refer to the Group Correspondence Course section of the Education Catalog that is available online at the EGA website, www.egausa.org. Registration deadline is Nov. 1, 2011. Send the registration form (found on the GLR website) to the GLR GCC Coordinator who will order and distribute instruction materials and remind you of deadlines to submit your work for evaluation. The deadline to submit pieces for evaluations is Oct. 15, 2012. The cost includes the instruction materials and postage with delivery confirmation. Classes that have too few enrollees may be dropped. You will receive your manuals in late January or early February 2012. You are responsible for purchasing your supplies. Supply sources are provided with each course. If you have any questions, please call 920-469-1799 or email kkristen858 at att.net.

OTHER NEEDLEWORK ACTIVITIES
September 23-24, 2011
The Needle Arts Guild of Toledo (NAGT) will host its 36th Annual Needlework Show at the Sanger Branch of the Toledo Public Library, 3030 W. Central Avenue, Toledo, OH 43606. The exhibit, judged by Pat Donaldson, is free and open to the public. Entry fee schedules, rules and other details may be obtained at http://www.needle-artstoledo.org/showinfo.htm. Special arrangements may be made for mailed submissions by contacting the show registrar at NeedleArtsToledo at aol.com.

September 29 –October 2, 2011
42nd Annual Stitchery Showcase
The event is sponsored by the Stan Hywet Needlework Guild at 714 N Portage Path, Akron, Ohio 44303. For more information contact Betty Jo Scurei at bscurei at yahoo.com or visit
www.stanhywetneedleworkguild.com

October 8, 2011
Indiana State Day 2011
Featured Class: Indiana’s State Bird – The Cardinal, Teacher: Marsha Gomola, Technique: Stumpwork (Proficiency: Beginner with no prework required)
Registration deadline: September 1, 2011
Workshop fee and lunch $35.00, Kit fee $25.00 for a total of $60.00
Contact: Jane Farber 317‐251‐0789, NeedleJane at aol.com or Marilyn Jarrett 317‐873‐2290,
MFJarrett at aol.com

Can you imagine this?
The Battle of Grunwald - 32 feet by 14 feet (actual size of the painting), 4304 by 1835 stitches, approximately 93 miles of floss, stitched by Polish volunteers. All the information at this link =>http://www.my- cross-stitch- software.com/battle_ of_grunwald/ index.shtml

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER
Our chapter newsletter is provided to our members in different ways: through US mail; via email; and online at www.ega-ggr.blogspot.com When you can’t access your email or find your
newsletter, you can always find our newsletter online at our BlogSpot.

2011-07-05T19:40:00.000-07:00

JULY-AUGUST 2011

NOTES FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK

This morning is especially lovely! There is a wren singing as the day dawns, the sun is peaking up over the horizon, I am enjoying a wonderful cup of coffee and stitching. What could be better?
I hope everyone is having some quality stitching time these days. It is easy to get caught up in the business of summer; mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, preparing for vacation, getting children to and from practices and games. Even stitching for a few minutes a day is quality stitching time in my book!

How are you doing on your UFO challenge pieces? I’ve finished the stitching on two of mine, and have begun work on a third. My plan is to stitch several and then decide how I want them to be finished. One is definitely going to the framers, but the others are undecided.
Please note that summer stitch-ins begin next Saturday at the Gaines Township Library. This is a good time to invite people to come in and find out about EGA. I am looking forward to getting some sunshine and stitching done in the next few weeks, and hope the same for all of you!
Until next time, Happy Stitching!

Carolyn

CALENDAR
July Dates
9 – Stitch-In, Saturday from 9:30 AM to close at Gaines Township Library
28 - Board Meeting, Thursday, 5:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
28 - Evening Meeting, Thursday 7:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village

August Dates
13 - Stitch-In, Saturday from 9:30 AM to close at Gaines Township Library
15 – NEWSLETTER INFORMATION due
25 - Board Meeting, Thursday, 5:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
25 - Evening Meeting
Thursday 7:00 PM at Heather Hills
Retirement Village

DAY PROGRAMS
July and August: No scheduled day group meetings.
September: Bring your UFOs to work on. Please contact Margie if interested in being the hostess for this meeting.

EVENING GROUP PROGRAMS
(Note: the Evening Group meetings will continue through the summer months.)
July: Drawn Thread book mark from March Needle Arts magazine – check magazine for supplies.
August: Pulled Thread pincushion – supply list will be available at July meeting.
September: Pat Pike will be teaching a Dragonfly Necklace/Pendant. (See below.) The kit will be available in assorted colors for $12. Please bring sharp embroidery scissors.

REMINDER

Some of our members are allergic to or sensitive to perfumes, aftershaves and other scents. Our EGA Meetings will be Perfume /Aftershave /Scent- Free out of consideration for those who have these sensitivities.

GREAT UFO CHALLENGE EVENT

For those unfortunate enough to have missed the sign-up at the May potluck (as your editor did), you may still participate by providing your list of UFOs to any of the GGREGA officers. You can take your own “before” photos or bring the evidence to a meeting or stitch-in where it will be photographed. The period of the challenge is May 2011 through May 2012.

CHAPTER NEWS
Chapter Secretary Needed

Our elected chapter secretary resigned in April, and we need someone to fill out the current term, which will run through the end of the year (but the last regular meeting is the October meeting). If you’re able to help, please contact Carolyn or Kelly.
Saturday Stitch-Ins
Everyone thought these were such a good idea, they’ll be held on the 2nd Saturday of the month for the rest of the year – excluding December. The location will continue to be the Gaines Township Library.

2012 Workshops

The Board is researching option for needlework teachers for 2012 and beyond. If you’ve enjoyed a teacher or wanted to take a class from someone, please let a Board member know. Both Betsy Morgan and Sherri Jones have been suggested – do you have any one else to recommend?

Program Director for 2012

Nancy will have completed 4 years as our Program Director in December. At that time, a new Program Director will be needed. As Nancy is a hard act to follow, a Program Committee has been suggested as an option. The committee would consist of 2 or 3 people and each one would be responsible for the meeting program on 2 0r 3 evenings throughout the year. Please let your Board know if you are in favor of this idea or have alternative suggestions.

Christmas Party Planning

Yes, it’s that time again. Jane Weiderman, Betty Houtman, Alice Rufener and Kelly Laird have
volunteered as the Planning Committee. The possible dates for the party this year are December 1st or 8th. Possibilities being investigated are (1) catering a dinner at the Methodist Church downtown and (2) talking with Hollie’s Landing about alternatives to a private room requiring a commitment for 30 dinners. If you have alternate suggestions for the Christmas Party, please contact one of the Planning committee members.

The History of Embroidery – A Web Wander
Your editor recently ran across 2 republished articles on the History of Embroidery by Chottie Alderson. The newsletter that republished the articles did so under the heading “An Article
Worth Repeating”. I think you’ll agree with those sentiments!
http://theneedlebug.com/2010/05/anarticle-worth-repeating/
and
http://theneedlebug.com/2010/05/article-ii-worth-repeating/

GREAT LAKES REGION MEETING - Indianapolis, IN - September 24

The GLR Semiannual Meeting of the Region Board will be held September 24 at 9 a.m., prior to the afternoon workshop. After the meeting, we will break for a plated lunch. Following lunch, Jane Ellen Balzuweit will present the workshop from 1 to 4 p.m. She will teach a new design in pulled thread, Woven Ribbons. Woven Ribbons is worked on 25-count white Dub-lin linen in size 8 and 12 white pearl cotton. The design fits a 3.5-inch Sudberry box, or may be finished as a needlebook or pincushion. In addition to the fabric (a six-inch square) and threads (10 yards each of the No. 8 and No. 12 pearls), the Woven Ribbons kit will include full instructions with a photo, and a needle. Students should bring a 4- or 5-inch hoop. Kit cost is $13.50; teaching fee is $15.00 per student. Please see the GLR website for the registration form.

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

EGA Group Correspondence Courses

NeedleArts Quarterly Offerings
*Florentine and Tulips taught by Gale Stafford - $60
* Moonlight Sonata taught by Cynthia Valentine - $70

2012 GLR Correspondence Course Selections
*Spring Splendor (Silk and Metal) Kay Stanis $60.00
*Floral Whimsy (Beading) Peggy Wright $68.00
*How To’s of Swedish Naversom Phyllis Maurer $70.00
*Florentine and Tulips (Canvas) Gail Stafford $60.00
*Moonlight Sonata (Hardanger) Cindy Valentine $70.00
*Roses (Blackwork) Carol Algie Higginbotham $60.00
*Star Studded Samplings (Blackwork Sampler) Ilse Altherr $62.50
*Crewel Choices Judy Jeroy $60.00
*Summer Dream (Stumpwork) Luan Callery $60.00
*Blue Heaven: Temari II Barbara Suess $70.00

EGA offers many educational opportunities through its Group Correspondence Courses.Chapters are not able to offer every course that would meet all the interests of every member of their group. To that end, the GLR offers a select group of classes each year that allows chapter members to pursue their interests without having to form a group from their home chapter. The GLR GCC Coordinator serves as the liaison between the class participants and the designers/teachers. You will not have a local group leader and you will be stitching on your own. Many exciting new classes are being offered for 2012 as well as some outstanding perennials. Many techniques and all skill levels are represented. For details regarding course content and the approximate cost of supplies, please refer to the Group Correspondence Course section of the
Education Catalog that is available online at the EGA website, www.egausa.org.
Registration deadline is Nov. 1, 2011. Send the registration form (attached at the end of the
newsletter) to the GLR GCC Coordinator who will order and distribute instruction materials and
remind you of deadlines to submit your work for evaluation. The deadline to submit pieces for
evaluations is Oct. 15, 2012. The cost includes the instruction materials and postage with delivery confirmation. Classes that have too few enrollees may be dropped. You will receive your manuals in late January or early February 2012. You are responsible for purchasing your supplies. Supply sources are provided with each course. If you have any questions, please email kkristen858@att.net

Regional Needlework Activities
Sep 5-10 2011
EGA National Seminar 'Flamingo Fandango' hosted by the Sun Region
Sep 8-10 2011
Fifth International Embroidery Conference, Naples Grand Resort, Naples FL
Sep 23-24 2011

The Needle Arts Guild of Toledo (NAGT) will host its 36th Annual Needlework Show at the Sanger Branch of the Toledo Public Library, 3030 W. Central Avenue, Toledo, OH 43606. The exhibit, judged by Pat Donaldson, is free and open to the public. Entry fee schedules, rules and other details may be obtained at http://www.needle-artstoledo. org/showinfo.htm. Special
arrangements may be made for mailed submissions by contacting the show registrar at NeedleArtsToledo@aol.com.

2011 National Button Convention
August 1 – 6, at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.
Programs:
Monday Evening
100 Years of the Automobile Button — William Hentges
Thursday Evening
The Lure of the Orient: Asia, Art and Buttons —Maggie Whitson
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
• The Beauty of Fabric Buttons
• Flights of Fancy: Insects, Art & Buttons
• Dragon’s Blood: Asian Cinnabar Buttons
• The Mikado and the Buttons it Inspired
• Hi Ho, Hi Ho – Off to Work We Went
• Once Upon a Button: Children’s Stories and Kate Greenaway
• Once Upon a Time in Japan – one family’s journey
• Classification of Clear & Colored Glass
Show Schedule (subject to change without notice): http://www.nationalbuttonsociety.org/2011_NBS _Show.html

August 4-6, 2011 –“Star Spangled Stitching” presented by Foothills Chapter

in beautiful Denver, Colorado as the 2011 Rocky Mountain Region Seminar. Classes with nationally known teachers in pulled work, needlepoint, silk and metal, counted thread, photo transfer, mixed media, beading and temari will be offered. Registration runs through May 15. For more information, hotel link and class list with pictures go to www.rmrega.org/id100.html

Michigan State Day, "A Michigan Picnic"
will be hosted by the White Pine Chapter on Saturday, August 14, 2011, at the Bavarian Inn Lodge & Conference Center, Frankenmuth MI.

Wisconsin State Day
with Catherine Jordan hosted by Madison Area Chapter, August 19-21, 2010, Madison WI.

Indiana State Day 2011
Saturday, October 8, 2011 Indiana’s State Bird – THE CARDINAL taught by MARSHA
GOMOLA Technique: Stumpwork Proficiency: Beginner with no prework required. Registration deadline: September 1, 2011. Workshop fee and lunch $35.00, Kit fee $25.00 for a total of $60.00. Contact: Jane Farber 317‐251‐0789, NeedleJane@aol.com or Marilyn Jarrett 317‐873‐2290 , MFJarrett@aol.com

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER

GLR Correspondence Course Selections
Spring Splendor (Silk and Metal) Kay Stanis $60.00
Floral Whimsy (Beading) Peggy Wright $68.00
How To’s of Swedish Naversom Phyllis Maurer $70.00
Florentine and Tulips (Canvas) Gail Stafford $60.00
Moonlight Sonata (Hardanger) Cindy Valentine $70.00
Roses (Blackwork) Carol Algie Higginbotham $60.00
Star Studded Samplings (Blackwork Sampler) Ilse Altherr $62.50
Crewel Choices Judy Jeroy $60.00
Summer Dream (Stumpwork) Luan Callery $60.00
Blue Heaven: Temari II Barbara Suess $70.00
In its continuing mission to stimulate the appreciation of embroidery and to advance the highest
standards of excellence in the practice of embroidery, EGA offers many educational opportunities through its Group Correspondence Courses. Chapters are not able to offer every course that would meet all the interests of every member of their group. To that end, the GLR offers a select group of classes each year that allows chapter members to pursue their interests without having to form a group from their home chapter. The GLR GCC Coordinator serves as the liaison between the class participants and the designers/teachers. You will not have a local group leader and you will be stitching on your own. Many exciting new classes are being offered for 2012 as well as some outstanding perennials. Many techniques and all skill levels are represented. For details regarding course content and the approximate cost of supplies, please refer to the Group Correspondence Course section of the Education Catalog that is available online at the EGA website, www.egausa.org.
Registration deadline is Nov. 1, 2011. Send the registration form below to the GLR GCC Coordinator who will order and distribute instruction materials and remind you of deadlines to submit your work for evaluation. The deadline to submit pieces for evaluations is Oct. 15, 2012. The cost includes the instruction materials and postage with delivery confirmation. Classes that have too few enrollees may be dropped. You will receive your manuals in late January or early February 2012. You are responsible for purchasing your supplies. Supply sources are provided with each course. If you have any questions, please email me at kkristen858@att.net. Send the registration form below with your check made payable to Great Lakes Region EGA to Kris Kyles, GLR GCC Coordinator, 3346 Langdon St., Green Bay, WI 54311.
COURSE TITLE COURSE FEE
1.
______________________________________________
2.
______________________________________________
3.
______________________________________________
Your Name _____________________________________
EGA Membership # _____________
City, State, Zip___________________________________
GLR Chapter ____________________________________

2011-05-01T19:44:00.000-07:00

MAY-AUGUST 2011

NOTES FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK
Happy Spring!
We are finally getting some wonderful sunshine, and the flowers and trees are waking up. Throw in a few days of rain, and what could be better?!I’ve used a couple of not-so-nice days to work in my stitching space. The urge to clean has bitten, and that means going through file drawers, boxes and bags. Besides finding things I haven’t touched in too long to think about, I’ve discovered that my taste in stitching has changed over the years.
Has that happened to you? There’s a project you worked on, set aside for one reason or another, and looking at it now, you are wondering, what was I thinking?! There were several of those UFOs in my stash. I have taken them out, placed them in a bag of projects to be taken to a new home. I am hoping that someone will have a desire to finish some of the “hearts and strawberries” that I once thought would be absolutely perfect in my kitchen.
I hope this note finds everyone ready for a new season, and that each of you gets a bit of the cleaning bug; at least as far as your stash is concerned.
Happy Stitching!
Carolyn

CALENDAR
May Dates
9 - Sampler Group Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
26- Board Meeting, Thursday, 5:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
26- Combined Day and Evening Meeting -Annual Potluck Thursday 5:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village

June Dates
6 - Sampler Group Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
15 – NEWSLETTER INFORMATION due
23 - Board Meeting Thursday, 5:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
23 - Evening Meeting Thursday at 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
25 – Summer Stitch In - Saturday at 9:30AM at Gaines Township Library

DAY PROGRAMS
May
Combined meeting with the Evening group at Heather Hills. Rumor has reached your editor that the Day Group will be doing an EGA Group Correspondence course over the summer. As more information is received, it’ll be shared with you. (NOTE: Neither a GCC or a date to begin has yet been selected. Opportunity to sign an interest sheet will be available at the May potluck. GCCs being considered are Dresden Kitty, Moonlight Sonata, Morning Glories, Dresden Garden, Liesel-Schwalm, Roses, and Hummingbird and Honeysuckle.)

EVENING PROGRAMS
(Note: the Evening Group meetings will continue through the summer months.)
May
Annual Potluck dinner. Program will be the UFO Challenge discussed later in the newsletter.
June
Hardanger needlebook.
* * * UPDATE * * * Here is a picture of 2 finished Hardanger needle cases and 1 stitched but not finished. Finished size of the folded needle case on 28 count Lugana is approximately 3" x 2-3/4". The following is a supply list for the project. Model used: 28 count Lugana linen (10-1/2" wide x 9-1/4 long.This gives you a 2" margin and 10 threads between the outside and inside designs for one needle case.)
No. 8 Pearl cotton (DMC)
No. 12 Pearl cotton (DMC)
Embroidery floss (DMC same color as Pearl Cotton)
Lining fabric (3" square)
Felt (3" square)
1/8" wide Ribbon (12" length)
Invisible sewing thread (optional)

BREAKING NEWS ON DUES
Carolyn has received news from the regional EGA organization that the increase in regional dues was defeated by a small margin. Therefore, the Great Lakes regional dues will stay at $1 per year. The 2010-2011 GGREGA dues will be $49 and are due to Betty Houtman on May 1.

REMINDER
Some of our members are allergic to or sensitive to perfumes, aftershaves and other scents. Our EGA Meetings will be Perfume /Aftershave /Scent-Free out of consideration for those who have these sensitivities.

ANNUAL POT LUCK
We will hold our annual pot luck dinner at the Heather Hills Retirement Village. We’ll set up at 5:45 PM, dinner will begin at 6:00 PM.
Sign up sheets for what to bring were passed around at the April day and night meetings.
If you didn’t sign up then, plan to bring dishes based on the following groupings determined by the first letter of your last name.
Main Dishes A-F
Side Dishes G-K
Salads L-R
Desserts S-Z
Plates, glasses, napkins and plastic ware are being provided by the GGREGA.
After dinner, the Great UFO Challenge registration will get under way. Even if you are one of those rare stitchers who doesn’t have any unfinished projects, come and enjoy the entertainment as the history of the unfinished projects is recounted during registration. There’s always the possibility that someone will share!

GREAT UFO CHALLENGE EVENT
The Great UFO Challenge will run from May 2011 to May 2012. Here’s how it will work – at the May Potluck Dinner, bring in one or more UFOs that you want to “enroll” in the challenge. The UFO must have been started before 2010. The registration of the project and its “before” photo of the UFO will be taken at the May potluck. During the coming year, as each UFO project is completed (i.e., finished into a gift giving state), an “after” photo will be taken to be added to the registration, and the stitcher’s name entered in the Grand Prize Drawing. You may register as many projects as you want to – uncompleted projects will not count against you. Every project that is finished and shown in gift-ready state will result in an entry in the prize drawing. Prizes for oldest, largest, etc. will be given (when the project is completed) as well as the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place drawings.

CHAPTER NEWS
2010 – 2011 DUES
As mentioned earlier, the regional dues increase was not passed, and the GGREGA member dues will be $49.00. In a change to EGA policy, EGA National has said that dues for members joining after May 15 will only be pro-rated for those who are not rejoining members. The dues must be to Betty Houtman by May 15. Please contact Betty, Carolyn or Kelly with any questions.

SATURDAY SUMMER STITCH-INS
During June, July, and August, arrangements have been made to hold the Stitch-Ins on the 4th Saturday of the month at the Gaines Township Library from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM.

FUNDRAISER
Our chapter has been approached by Younkers Stores with an invitation to participate in Younkers Community Days. This would involve selling Younkers discount coupons either at the store on Community Days or in advance. It does not require any investment by the chapter. More information to follow as it becomes available.

HABITAT SAMPLERS
This was discussed at the April evening meeting. Several samplers are in progress and will be turned in for framing. A show of hands was taken to determine how many members wanted to continue stitching the samplers. Three members indicated that they would continue to stitch them, with the majority declining to stitch further samplers on a regular basis.

KISSING PILLOWS
Geri Janis-Birr will continue to accept Kissing Pillows through the May Potluck Dinner meeting. Keep in mind that the kissing pillows do not need to be finished, only stitched.

MEMBER DIRECTORY UPDATE
Please change the name on the entry for Karen Vanden Bosch to Karen Akey. Karen’s address and phone number remain the same.

GGR-EGA LIBRARY
The list of the library contents has been located and validated. Bobbie has volunteered to add it to the GGR-EGA Newsletter blog.
If you find extra copies of needlework related books, etc. while spring cleaning, please consider donating them to the library. While we have many wonderful books and resources, some are becoming dated.

CHRISTMAS PARTY PLANNING
Yes, it’s that time again. Jane Weiderman, Betty Houtman, Alice Rufener and Kelly Laird have volunteered as the Planning Committee. This year may take on a different format, as the Radisson Hotel, where we’ve held the Christmas party for the past few years, has a requirement that 30 meals must be purchased or they will charge the chapter $300 for the use of the room. Options to be explored are whether to invite spouses to the party, change the venue, or whether the Radisson would place us in a secluded area of the regular dining room, with use of the regular dinner menu. If you have suggestions or questions, please contact one of the committee.

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Chapter Special Interest Project
Pat Pike will teach a puffy crystal heart pendant to those that have signed up. Pat has asked that the groups of students at the class be in groups of 2 or 3 as this project is more involved and will take some time to do. It has 72 4mm Swarovski bicone crystals. Talk with Pat Pike at the May dinner to arrange when your session will be.

EGA NATIONAL GROUP CORRESPONDENCE COURSES
May June Online Courses:
Crewel Choices taught by Judy Jeroy - $65
Finishing with Flair taught by Marion Scoular - $64
Needle Arts Quarterly Correspondence Courses (Register by May 31):
Morning Glories taught by Ilse Alther - $61
My Favorite Bracelet taught by Jeanette Carmichael- $63
For more information or to register: http://www.egausa.org/html/correspondence_courses.html

NEEDLEWORK ACTIVITIES
EGA's National Tapestry
America The Beautiful has come to Farmington Hills. The Tapestry is on display through Friday, May 29, 201, at William M. Costick Activity Center, 28600 Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48336, ((248-473-1800) in the City Gallery at the main entrance facing Eleven Mile (between Inkster and Middlebelt). Exhibit hours are: Monday thru Friday, until May 27, 8:30am-4:30pm.
This tapestry, depicting the US, its flora, fauna and geographic features, is in five panels, each 24” x 48”. In conjunction with the tapestry display, Farmington Hills Chapter will also display a selection of its members’ work.
For more information on the National Tapestry, please go to www.ega.org/html/national_tapestry.html.

2011 National Button Convention
August 1 – 6, at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
Programs:
Monday Evening
100 Years of the Automobile Button —William Hentges
Thursday Evening
The Lure of the Orient: Asia, Art and Buttons —Maggie Whitson
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
• The Beauty of Fabric Buttons
• Flights of Fancy: Insects, Art & Buttons
• Dragon’s Blood: Asian Cinnabar Buttons
• The Mikado and the Buttons it Inspired
• Hi Ho, Hi Ho – Off to Work We Went
• Once Upon a Button: Children’s Stories and Kate Greenaway
• Once Upon a Time in Japan – one family’s journey
• Classification of Clear & Colored Glass
Show Schedule (subject to change without notice):
http://www.nationalbuttonsociety.org/2011_NBS_Show.html

Michigan State Day
"A Michigan Picnic" will be hosted by the White Pine Chapter on Saturday, August 14, 2010 at the Bavarian Inn Lodge & Conference Center, Frankenmuth MI.

EGA Regional Conferences
June 23-26, 2011 –“Stitching in the Magic City” - Share-A-Stitch XXXI, presented by The Tennessee Valley Region of the Embroiderers' Guild of America, Inc. at the Birmingham Marriott, 3590 Grandview Parkway, Birmingham, AL. A great selection of classes with nationally recognized teachers will be offered. The techniques and projects are varied and exciting. There is something for stitchers of all levels. In addition to the classes, there will be a bookstore, boutique, merchandise night, Thursday night lecture and Saturday night banquet all on site. For more information, please visit: www.egatvr.com.

August 4-6, 2011 –“Star Spangled Stitching”
presented by Foothills Chapter in beautiful Denver, Colorado as the 2011 Rocky Mountain Region Seminar. Classes with nationally known teachers in pulled work, needlepoint, silk and metal, counted thread, photo transfer, mixed media, beading and temari will be offered. Registration runs through May 15. For more information, hotel link and class list with pictures go to www.rmrega.org/id100.html

From the Web
Fabulous, fabulous crewel designs/ideas – and a new book due out April 2011:
http://www.talliaferro.com/index.html
The Last and Best Book on Art Needlework, originally published by the Brainerd & Armstrong Company, New London, Connecticut in 1894-1895, is now available in digital form!
http://www.victorian-embroidery-and-crafts.com/art_needlework_1895.html?hop=fergusfish

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER
Our chapter newsletter is provided to our members in different ways: through US mail; via email; and online at www.ega-ggr.blogspot.com When you can’t access your email or find your newsletter, you can always find our newsletter online at our BlogSpot.

2011-03-01T15:48:00.000-08:00

A NOTE FROM OUR PRESIDENT
Greetings!

While Mother Nature was busy, I hope all of you were able to get time for some significant stitching. Several of my UFOs are stitched, and a few others pulled from various hiding places to be put in the queue.
The days that I spent stitching gave me time to sit and think about the upcoming year and EGA. There are some wonderful projects planned, some changes that are going to occur that I hope will find more of our membership involved.
Take a few minutes this month to think about what you want your EGA group to be. What are you doing to promote our group to others? I look forward to getting together with other stitchers and sharing news and updates. Also, there is so much to learn, and everyone has something to share.

Happy Stitching.
Carolyn

CALENDAR
March
7 - Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM. Call Susie.
24 - Board Meeting - Thursday at 5:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village.
24 - Evening Meeting - Thursday at 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village.
25 - Day Meeting - Friday at 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church.

April
11- * * * UPDATE * * * Note date change - Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM. Call Susie.
15 - NEWSLETTER INFORMATION DUE.
28 - Board Meeting - Thursday at 5:00 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village.
28 - Evening Meeting - Thursday at 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village.
29 - * * * UPDATE * * * Note date change - Day Meeting at 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church.

DAY PROGRAMS
March
PROGRAM: To be announced.
HOSTESS: Margie

April
* * * UPDATE * * * Day meeting has been changed from the fourth Friday, April 22 (Good Friday) to the fifth Friday, April 29.
PROGRAM: Dick will present a program on a reversible bookmark he has designed. He will supply the pattern. Bring with you your usual stitching supplies and the following: 22-count Ribband 2" wide x 10" long OR any banding with a workable width of at least 19 threads for 14 count or 38 threads for 22 count or finer OR aida or linen to finish as a bookmark; floss to match the Ribband edge or floss in color of your choice; and marking pins.
HOSTESS: Connie W.

EVENING PROGRAMS
(Note: The Evening Group has discontinued having hostesses as Heather Hills provides us with ice water and coffee.)
March
PROGRAM: We will make the tags for the thread holders. These supplies are needed:
White card stock
Scrapbooking paper in various prints
1/4" round hole punch
EK Success Real Estate Sign large punch
Sewing Basket 3/16" Antique Brass Flower Eyelets by Dritz
3/16" Eyelet tool
Hammer
Aleene's Tacky Glue or PVA Glue
Tsukineko Fantastix Coloring Tool Brush Point
Avery removable multi-use labels 5/16" X 1/2"

April

PROGRAM: Pat Pike will teach one of her bracelet designs - Ellen's Bracelet. Pat will put together a kit for us at a cost of $10-$12. The bracelet may be done in all white or with color accents. Photographs of the two bracelet options were sent out in the January newsletter.

May
Annual Potluck Dinner. Program will be the UFO Challenge discussed later in the newsletter.

CHAPTER NEWS
Evening Group Meetings
The Evening Group has voted to continue the meeting schedule through the summer months. The tentative programs are as follows:
June - A small Hardanger project.
July - A small Pulled Thread project.
August - A small Drawn Thread project.

These topics were chosen because they were the top 3 vote-getters on the interest survey taken by the Evening Group during the January meeting.

Saturday Summer Stitch-Ins

During June, July, and August, arrangements have been made to hold the Stitch-Ins on the 4th Saturday of the month at the Gaines Township Library from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM.

Habitat Samplers

Peg has asked to be relieved of this responsibility and someone is needed to fill her shoes. Until the new coordinator has been named, members should give their completed Habitat samplers to Margie so she can add the names and frame them. Thus far this year, we've got 14 families to stitch Habitat samplers for and we have far from enough.

Kissing Pillows
Geri Janis-Birr will continue to accept Kissing Pillows through the May Potluck Dinner.

Membership Director

Claudia has notified Carolyn that her job responsibilities have increased to such a point that she can't attend chapter meetings and maintain the membership records as she feels is needed. She has resigned her position as Membership Director. Betty H. has volunteered to take over the membership responsibilities. Claudia and Betty will be working together to transition the role over to Betty.

Great UFO Challenge Event

The Great UFO Challenge Event will run from May 2011 to May 2012. Here's how it will work - at the May Potluck Dinner, bring in one or more UFOs that you want to "enroll" in the challenge. The UFO must have been started before 2010. "Before" photos of the UFO will be taken at the dinner.

During the coming year, as each UFO project is completed (i.e finished into its final state, not stitched), an "after" photo will be taken, and the stitcher's name entered into the Grand Prize Drawing.

The Grand Prize will be having your 2012-2013 dues paid for you. Additional prizes are in the works. Current suggestions - for the oldest project completed, for the biggest UFO completed, and for the most UFOs completed.

If you have an idea for a prize category to be considered in the Great UFO Challenge, please contact Carolyn.

EGA Dues for 2011-2012

Word has been received that both EGA National and EGA Regional will be increasing dues in June 2011. Dues for EGA National are increasing by $5 to $37. Great Lakes Region dues will be increasing from $1 to $5.
Our GGREGA chapter dues will increase by $1 to $11. This increase will allow our local chapter to provide more activities of interest to our members. That brings the total dues for the coming year to $53 ($37 + $5 + $11). Please contact Carolyn or Kelly if you have any questions about the dues structure.
Additionally, Claudia has been notified by EGA National that she must submit all dues and associated records to National no later than May 30. We are asking that everyone give their renewal dues of $53 to Claudia or Betty no later than May 1 to allow adequate time for processing. Thanks in advance for your assistance.

We Need You!

In our local chapter the position of Region Representative is still open this year. Please let Carolyn or Kelly know if you are interested.

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Chapter Special Interest Project
If there is enough interest, Pat Pike has offered to teach a puffy crystal heart pendant that could possibly be a one day Saturday class. It is more involved and will take some time to do. It has 72 4mm Swarovski bicone crystals. An interest sheet will be available in March (continuation of the one available in January and February if you did not sign up).

Upcoming Needlework Activities in Michigan
Farmington Hills EGA is having an exhibit of their needlework during the month of March at the Farmington Public Library, 23500 Liberty Street, Farmington, MI 48335-3570.

EGA's National Tapestry: America the Beautiful

EGA's National Tapestry: America the Beautiful is coming to Farmington Hills. The tapestry is scheduled to be on display April 15-May 29, 2011, at William M. Costick Activity Center, 28600 Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48336, (248-473-1800) in the City Gallery at the main entrance facing Eleven Mile Road (between Inkster and Middlebelt). Exhibit hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM EXCEPT Thursday, April 14 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM; Friday, April 15 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM; and Saturday, April 16 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM.

This tapestry, depicting the US, its flora, fauna, and geographic features, is in five panels, each 24" X 48". In conjunction with the tapestry display, Farmington Hills Chapter will also display a selection of its members' work.
The Embroiderers' Guild of America, Inc. website describes the tapestry project:
"Inspired by a love of our country's beauty and the desire to see it rendered in needlework, Judy Jeroy's dream of a national tapestry was developed. The National tapestry has been a work in progress for the past four years. The tapestry will hang at National headquarters in Louisville and be displayed at venues and exhibits around the country.
Five panels were designed and painted on 18-count mono canvas. Each panel was assigned a coordinator to facilitate the finishing. No techniques were excluded in the stitching of each panel, which represents certain geographic features and indigenous objects, animals, birds, and plants throughout the country. To date, literally thousands have stitched on the five panels."
For more information on the National tapestry, go to http//:www.egausa.org/html/national_tapestry.html

2011 National Button Convention, August 1-6 at the Amy Grand Plaza Hotel
Programs:
Monday evening - 10 Years of the Automobile Button - William Hentges
Thursday evening - The Lure of the Orient: Asia, Art and Buttons - Maggie Whitson
Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday
The Beauty of the Fabric Button
Flights of Fancy: Insects, Art, & Buttons
Dragon's Blood: Asian Cinnabar Buttons
The Mikado and the Buttons It Inspired
Hi Ho, Hi Ho - Off to Work We Went
Once Upon a Button: Children's Stories and Kate Greenaway
Once Upon a Time in Japan - One Family's Journey
Classification of Clear & Colored Glass
See http://www.nationalbuttonsociety.org/2011_NBS_Show.html
Show schedule subject to change without notice.

EGA Regional Conferences
June 23-26, 2011 - Stitching in the Magic City - Share-A-Stitch XXXI presented by the Tennessee Valley Region of the Embroiderers' Guild of America, Inc. at the Birmingham Marriott, 3590 Grandview Parkway, Birmingham, AL. A great selection of classes with nationally recognized teachers will be offered. The techniques and projects are varied and exciting. There is something for stitchers of all levels. In addition to the classes, there will be a bookstore, boutique, merchandise night, Thursday night lecture, and Saturday night banquet all on site. For more information, please visit www.egatvr.com

August 4-6, 2011 - Star Spangled Stitching presented by Foothills Chapter in beautiful Denver, Colorado as the 2011 Rocky Mountain Region Seminar. Classes with nationally known teachers in pulled work, needlepoint, silk and metal, counted thread, photo transfer, mixed media, beading, and temari offered. Registration runs through May 15. For more information, hotel link and class list with pictures, go to www.rmrega.org/id100.html

OTHER NEWS
We Will Miss You
One of the great ladies of the needlework world, Virgina (Ginny) Ruth Austin Thompson, 87, died December 5, 2010. She was an avid needleworker and with her husband, revived a national interest in counted cross stitch from their retail and wholesale businesses in Pawleys Island, SC. She authored a number of books on cross stitch including "Audobon's Birds in Counted Cross Stitch" published by Charles Scribner's Sons. Before retiring, the husband and wife team taught needlework seminars from coast to coast and annually took groups on needlework tours to Denmark and England for many years. Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com

Plimoth Jacket
The Winterthur Museum has created a history of the creation of the Plimoth Jacket. It may be seen at www.winterthur.org/pdfs/Plimoth-Jacket.pdf

Chapter Newsletter
Our chapter newsletter is provided to our members in different ways: through US mail; via email; and online at www.ega-ggr.blogspot.com When you can't access your email or find your newsletter, you can always find our newsletter online on our blogspot.

2011-01-10T05:50:00.001-08:00

Supplement to January-February 2011 Newsletter

This supplement contains patterns for the Habitat Sampler and the Kissing Pillows for our Soldiers. To access the January-February newsletter, scroll down the blogspot to the Blog Archive on the left and click on January 2011. The newsletter will appear below these patterns.
(To make a usable copy of the patterns from this blogspot, left click on the pattern and left click again on the magnifying glass. Print.)

PATTERN FOR KISSING PILLOWS FOR OUR SOLDIERS

PATTERN FOR HABITAT SAMPLER

2011-01-08T11:56:00.000-08:00

January-February 2011

A Note from Carolyn - A Word from our President Elect

HAPPY NEW YEAR - I hope that each of you have enjoyed a wonderful holiday season with family and friends.

Many thanks to everyone for their thoughts, prayers, and cards on the passing of my mother. Our family was touched by your kindness.

Many of us begin a new year with resolutions, and the best of intentions for carrying them out. If you are like me, they are broken before the first week of the New Year. With that in mind, I'm setting a goal for myself rather than a resolution, and that is to "stitch from stash" in 2011. There are many UFOs, class projects that are partially finished, kitted pieces that have been on the "must stitch" list for a least a year. The satisfaction that comes from stitching something that has already been started will remind me of the occasion when it was begun.

Perhaps there are other goals to be added throughout the year: gifts to be made for someone special, clearing out the long-forgotten supplies, getting patterns organized and cleaned out. There are so many things that are stitching related that anyone of us could just have the goal of getting everything in its own place.

I am looking forward to the New Year with great anticipation. All the very best to each and everyone.

CALENDAR
January Dates
3 - Sampler Group Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
tbd - Board Meeting
27 - Evening Meeting Thursday 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
28 - Day Meeting Friday 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church

February Dates
5 - EGA Stitch In Public Day *UPDATED* at the Gaines Township Library 10 AM - 2 PM
7 - Sampler Group Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
15 - NEWSLETTER INFORMATION due
tbd - Board Meeting
24 - Evening Meeting Thursday at 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
25 - Day Meeting Fridat at 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church

DAY PROGRAMS
January

Program: We will work on Habitat samplers. Bring white or off-white 14 or 28 count fabric to work on (cut at least 12" by 14") and DMC 798 and 912. Pattern can be found in the blogspot's supplement to this issue or in your emailed or US mailed newsletter.

Hostess: Vonna H.

February
Program: To be announced.
Hostess: Volunteer needed.

EVENING PROGRAMS
January

Program: Habitat Samplers. The following supplies are needed: DMC 912 & 798; 12" by 14" white or off-white 14 or 28 count even weave fabric; usual stitching supplies; and pattern - find in the blogspot's supplement to this issue or your emailed or US mailed newsletter.

Hostesses: Janalee Keegstra, Marilyn Berghorst, and Betty Houtman

February

Program: Kissing Pillows for our soldiers. The following supplies are needed: 14 count white Aida (6" x 6"); DMC 797, 321, and Blanc; usual stitching supplies; and pattern - find in the blogspot's supplement to this issue or your emailed or US mailed newsletter.

Hostesses: Carolyn N. and Pat A.

March

Program: We will make the tags for the thread holders. The following supplies are needed: white card stock; scrapbooking paper in various prints; 1/4" round hole punch; EK Success 1/2 " round hole punch; EK Success Real Estate Sign large punch; sewing basket 3/16" Antique Brass Flower eyelets by Dritz; 3/16" eyelet tool; hammer; Aleene's tacky glue or PVA glue;Tsukineko Fantastix Coloring Tool Brush Point; and Avery removable multi-use labels 5/16" x 1/2".

Hostesses: Geri Janis-Birr and Jane Weiderman.

April

Program: Pat Pike will teach one of her bracelet designs - Ellen's Bracelet. Pat will put together a kit for us at an estimated cost of $10-$12. The bracelet may be done in all white or with colored accents. Photographs of the two bracelet options are below.

Hostesses: Judy F., Carol W., and Diardre Q.

May

Annual Potluck Dinner - If you have suggestions for a speaker or program, please contact Nancy Backus.

September
Hostesses: Peggy Hill and Karen VandenBosch.

October
Hostesses: To be determined

DAY GROUP AGENDA

When we get together at the day meetings in January and February, come with your ideas about what we should do in the upcoming months. Do we want to have members volunteer to do a program each month as we've done in the past? Do we want to select a Group Correspondence Course to work on together? Do we want to change to stitch-in status? Or do we want to disband? Please put some thought into this and join us in January and February for a lively discussion about our day group's future.

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Chapter Special Interest Project

If there is enough interest, Pat Pike has offered to teach a puffy crystal heart pendant that could possibly be a one day Saturday class. It is more involved and will take some time to do. It has 72 4mm Swarovski bicone crystals. An interest sheet will be available in January.

Stitching by the Fall: Camp GLR Great Lakes Region Seminar 2011 April 3 to 7, 2011 - Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio - Hosted by Town & Country Chapter EGA

The members of the Town & Country Chapter are very busy planning the many activities for Stitching by the Falls - Camp GLR, Sunday, April 3 to Thursday, April 7, 2011. Many reservations have already been received...and there's still room for you too and without a late fee until December 31, 2010. Full information including color versions of the class choices can be found on the GLR website at http:..www.ega-glr.org

We are optimistic that all class offerings will be filled to capacity in addition to providing our "campers" the usual other activities during the week, including the Boutique, Bookstore, Teacher's Showcase, Stan Hywet Tour & Dinner on Tuesday evening, and Merchandise Night on Wednesday evening. We are also offering chair massages and scissor sharpening, with further details to be included in the participant booklet. Volunteer opportunities are available - please let me know if you can assist us during Seminar week by calling or emailing me.

We are anxious to have you join us at the Sheraton Suites Hotel, located on the beautiful waterfall of the Cuyahoga Falls River, where we will offer you all the amenities of delicious food, great friends, and way better beds than the "camp" you grew up with. Hope to see you there! Carmen Heare - GLR Seminar 2011 Chair

WE NEED YOU
In our local chapter - The position of Region Representative is still open this year. Please let Carolyn or Kelly know if you are interested.

The Great Lakes Region - While it is the responsibility of the Great Lakes Region Nominating Committee to create a slate of officers and a new nominating committee for the following term (2012-2014), the nominating committee cannot work toward broad representation on our region board without support from you. We are looking for dedicated people who are interested in furthering the aims of the EGA and GLR and will work toward that end. The slate of nominees for the 2012-2014 term will be presented at the GLR Annual Meeting on April 4, 2011, held in conjunction with the GLR Seminar 2011. The election will be conducted at the Semiannual Meeting in the fall. We're asking you to show your support of the GLR Board by submitting a resume to serve on the 2012-2014 GLR Board. The form is available at the GLR website http://www.ega.org/Forms/GLRResumeForm2010.pdf
When completed, send to Jan Dunmyer or any one of the nominating committee members.

PAT'S PEREGRINATIONS
DMC threads has a blog! Called "Emma's Broidery", subjects are the various DMC products, free projects, giveaways, and the needlework industry. Go to http://dmc-threads.com/

Since I just completed the Christmas ornament season with my usual finishing challenges, I was delighted to find a blog with numerous clear tutorials on finishing ornaments:
http://pinwheelponders.blogspot.com/p/tutorials.html

For those who are challenged by new stitches as I am, I'll share some of the places where I go when I am doing something new. Somehow seeing different approaches to doing the same stitch helps me be more successful!

Mary Corbet is sharing stitching videos on her blog "Needle n' Thread". She demonstrates the steps involved in making the stitch.
http://www.needlenthread.com/videos

Great stitch tutorials for when you decide to venture beyond cross-stitch are found on the Heritage Shoppe site.
http://heritageshoppe.com/heritage/stitches/stitchmenu.html

Another site for stitch tutorials is Faby Reilly, a French designer whose site is bilingual.
http://www.fabyreilly.com/index/TutorialsIndex/StitchesTutorial.html

When you need inspiration, go look at these sites:
http://theworldslargestcollectionofsmalls.blogspot.com
http://theworldslargestcollectionofsmallstoo.blogspot.com

For samplers:
http://www.needleworkantiques.com/sampler_gallery.html
http://galleryofsamplers.blogspot.com
http://quakerinspired.blogspot.com

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER

Our chapter newsletter is provided to our members in different ways: through US mail; via email; and online at www.ega-ggr.blogspot.com When you can't access your email or find your newsletter, you can always find our newsletter online at our blogspot.

2010-11-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

A NOTE FROM ALICE - A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT

It's been fun being president again and I'm looking forward to joining you at the Christmas party when our new officers are sworn in. I wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.

CALENDAR
November Dates
1 - Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM
18 - Board Meeting - CANCELED

December Dates
2- Christmas Party - Thursday 6:00 PM at the Radisson Hotel
6 - Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM
15 - Newsletter information due
17 - NO BOARD MEETING IN DECEMBER

DAY PROGRAMS
There are no scheduled day meetings in November and December.

NIGHT PROGRAMS
There are no scheduled night meetings in November and December.

ELECTIONS!

In the October evening meeting Carolyn N. was elected Chapter President; Kelly L. was elected Chapter Vice-President; and Karen V. was elected Chapter Treasurer. The position of Region Representative remains open at this time.

REMINDER

Some of our members are allergic to or sensitive to perfumes, aftershaves, and other scents. Our EGA meetings will be perfume/aftershave/scent-free out of consideration for those who have sensitivities.

CHRISTMAS PARTY

On December 2, we'll once again return to the Radisson Hotel on Ann Street. A cash bar will be available at 6 PM, at 6:15 PM the Annual Meeting with the election of officers will take place, and dinner will start at 6:30 PM. The evening will conclude at 9:30 PM. The committee is hard at work planning fun and surprises. If you plan on participating in the ornament exchange, you will want to start deciding on what pattern you will want to do. We will again collect mittens, hats, and scarves for those in need. The menu choices are listed on the reservation sheet. (See your email or US mailed newsletter or the Sept-Oct issue on our blogspot for the reservation form.) While the original date for reservations was November 1, Alice R. has agreed to accept them until November 5. Please contact Alice to let her know your reservation is coming.

STATUS OF AM MEETINGS
Margie S. has written a thought provoking essay which she has asked be shared with you via the newsletter so that the questions she raises can be discussed by the chapter members.

For several years now, we've watched as attendance at the AM chapter meetings declined and attendance at the PM chapter meetings increased. Over this same period, the AM group has not had a program chair. Instead, the AM group has had a sign-up sheet where members volunteered to provide a program for each of the monthly meetings. This past September and October no program was provided and, as a result, only 5 members attended in September and 3 members in October. We're at a crossroads now and need to address what we should do about the AM meetings. Do we want to return to members volunteering each month to provide a program? Could we agree on a project (such as a Group Correspondence Course) that would carry us through 2011? Should we go to stitch-in status and remain at the church or rotate among homes? These are questions attendees of the AM meetings should think about and talk about with other members. Rather than watch the AM meetings dwindle to a painful end, let's take this issue in hand and make a decision about the direction we want to go in.

* * * * NEWS YOU CAN USE * * * *

EMAIL ADDRESS CHANGES

Please note that the email addresses for Annie B. and Margie S. are incorrect in the member directory. Please contact them or refer to your emailed or US mailed newsletter for the correct information.

EVENING GROUP - 2011 ACTIVITIES
January

Habitat Samplers. A copy will be supplied in the January newsletter (via email or US mail - not on the blogspot). The following supplies are needed: DMC 912; DMC 798; 12" by 14" white or off-white 14 or 28 count even weave fabric; usual stitching supplies; and pattern.

February

Kissing Pillows for our soldiers. The pattern and needed supplies will be in the next newsletter.

March

We will make the tags for the thread holders. Supplies needed will be provided at a later date.

April
Possible waxer pocket.

EVENING GROUP HOSTESSES
January
Janalee K.
Marilyn B.
Betty H.
February
Carolyn N.
Pat A.
March
Geri J-B.
Jane W.
April
Judy F.
Carol W.
Diardre Q.
September
Peggy H.
Karen V.
October
To be determined

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY REMINDER
The Needle Arts Quarterly offerings are still available through November. They are:
**More Options in Hardanger ($51)
**Color Play ($55)
More information can be found by calling (502)589-6956 or on the EGA National Correspondence page: www.egausa.org/html/correspondencecourses.html

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER

OUR ADVERTISERS

2010-09-14T05:25:00.000-07:00

A NOTE FROM ALICE - A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT

They tell me it's been a long hot summer. I'm writing the column this month because Marijo has resigned. She has been having health problems for awhile now. I'm sure I speak for everyone - "take it easy, Marijo, and get better soon". So, I have you in my clutches until the end of the year.

CALENDAR
September Dates
13 - Sampler Group Monday 12:30 PM
16 - Board Meeting Thursday 7:00 PM - CANCELED - Rescheduled for next Thursday
23 - Board Meeting Thursday 5:45 PM Heather Hills Retirement Village (one hour prior to evening membership meeting)
23 - Night Meeting Thursday 6:45 PM Heather Hills Retirement Village
24 - Day Meeting Friday 9:00 AM First United Methodist Church

October Dates
4 - Sampler Group Monday 12:30 PM
15 - Board Meeting Friday 9:30 AM at Alice's - CANCELED - Rescheduled for Oct 28
15 - Newsletter information due
22 - Day Meeting Friday 9:00 AM First United Methodist Church
28 - Board Meeting Thursday 5:45 PM Heather Hills Retirement Village (one hour prior to evening membership meeting)
28 - Night meeting Thursday 6:45 PM Heather Hills Retirement Village

DAY PROGRAMS:
September
Hostess: Margie S.
Program: Not available at press time

October
Hostesses: Claudia D. and Betty N.
Program: Not available at press time

NIGHT PROGRAMS
September
Hostesses: Carolyn N. and Pat A.

Program: Nancy has designed a wonderful Orts container as our September project. It is a round foldable ort container using the inner ring of a 3 inch wooden embroidery hoop. Members will need to purchase their own hoop and bring it to the meeting along with their usual stitching supplies.

October
Hostesses: Carol J., Pat P., and Ruth L.

Program: The planned project for October is being designed and could be either a waxer case and/or thread ring tag. It's always nice to have a surprise.

REMINDER

OUTREACH -HABITAT FOR HUMANITY SAMPLERS

Each time a new sampler is brought to the Habitat for Humanity, there are oohs and aahs and much thanks. Each year about 20 new houses are dedicated and we have been able to provide a sampler for each one. Currently, we have enough to finish this year and start next year but spring and summer are busy times for Habitat dedications and we will need most of our samplers at that time. Marijo and Margie do the work of stitching the names and framing these, but they need to have the samplers ahead of time so they can get them done on time. Each one takes only about an evening to stitch and would be an excellent way to watch the many games of football this fall. Consider making one or two so that we will continue with this worthwhile project.

WORKSHOPS

Casalquidi is an Italian form of embroidery originated in the nineteenth century. It is characterized by - depending on your point of view - Roman columns or fancy worms, pulled work, and built-in flowers. The resulting product appears quite complex and daunting to do, yet it is actually comprised of layers of simple familiar stitches.

At the August Stitch-In, Dick H. taught a workshop based on this form of embroidery. We had fun learning how simple stitches make such a delightful result. We thank Dick for all his work preparing his detailed demonstrations. Look for these beautiful white work Altoid tins displayed at our fall meetings.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

ELECTIONS, ELECTIONS, ELECTIONS

For the coming year, we need nominations for President, Vice-President, Region Representative, and Treasurer. The Nominating Committee members are Kelly L., Yvonna H., and Alice R. Please contact any of them if you'd like to be considered for one of the open positions.

CHRISTMAS PARTY

On December 2, we will once again return to the Radisson Hotel on Ann Street. A cash bar will be available at 6 PM, at 6:15 PM the Annual Meeting with the election of officers will take place, and dinner will start at 6:30 PM. The evening will conclude at 9:30 PM. The committee is hard at work planning fun and surprises. If you plan on participating in the ornament exchange, you will want to start deciding on what pattern you will want to do. We will again collect mittens, hats, and scarves for poor children. The menu choices are listed on the reservation sheet at the end of this newsletter. Please have your reservation into Alice Rufener by November 1.

EGA LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
CORRESPONDENCE COURSES
Our National offers a wide variety of high quality courses that allow members to take intensive learning in a specialized area. After completing the course, you will be able to submit your work to the national teacher and receive a valuable critique. The listing of these courses may be seen in Needle Arts or on the web at www.egausa.org
There are four ways to take these courses:
1. Form an interest group of about 10 members here to share the costs and appoint one person to serve as coordinator.
2. For those classes with only one or two local members interested, the Great Lakes Region serves as coordinator for a number of classes each year. The list for 2011 may be found at the end of this newsletter. You must register by November and you will receive your materials sometime in January.
3. The website sponsors two new classes each month.
4. Each edition of Needle Arts has class specials.

GLR CORRESPONDENCE COURSES

The Great lakes Region has announced the Correspondence Courses being offered through the region for 2011. Available course are: Brazilian Embroidery Purse, Chinese Checkers (canvas), Dresden Garden, Lydia's Necessities, Plum Blossom, Circle with blue Flower, Dresden Kitty, A Memory Book: Scrapbooking with a Needle, Hummingbird and Honeysuckle (stumpwork), and Swiss Sampler (counted thread). Registration deadline is November 1, 2010. Full information is at the end of the newsletter.

OTHER EGA NEWS

The Needle Arts Guild of Toledo presents their 35th Annual Needlework Exhibit September 17-18, 2010, at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library, Sanger Branch, Ohio. Karen Wojahn will be this year's judge. Entries will be accepted Wednesday, September 15, with judging on Thursday, September 16. For more information, please go to http://needle-arts-toledo.org

THE TEXTILE MUSEUM

In Washington, D.C. there's a little known but wonderful place for anyone interested in embroidery and other textile arts to visit - the Textile Museum. If our nation's capitol isn't in your travel plans at the moment, you can still enjoy the Textile Museum through their website: www.textilemuseum.org/fsg/index.html Recently the website featured the exhibition taking place at the museum - Flowers of Silk and Gold: Four Centuries of Ottoman Embroidery - with fascinating photographs and descriptions. Catalogs of the exhibition and other textile reference books are available in the Textile Museum online store.

FOURTH ANNUAL SOUTHERN MICHIGAN SHOP HOP SEPTEMBER 11-20, 2010

The participating shops are Stitching Bits and Bobs, Flying Stitch, In Stitches, Timeless Stitches, and Ladybug Shoppe. (I've heard there are great prizes to be given - pca) Please contact the shops for more information.

PHILLIPA TURNBULL EVENT
Phillipa Turnbull from England presented her lecture Seventeenth-Century Textiles in British Castles and County Houses on June 17, followed by two crewel workshops June 18 and 19 at the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores. It was a very enjoyable three days of information and stitching with Phillipa. You can check out more Phillipa and her company at www.crewelwork.com

Harry Williamson, a trustee of the Royal School of Needlework and member The Worshipful Company of Broderers, accompanied Phillipa. The Broderers Company was formed to promote and protect the craft of embroidery in London in the Middle Ages. They received their first charter from Queen Elizabeth I in 1561.

To celebrate the Broderers 450th anniversary, Phillipa and Harry invite you to participate in the company's Worldwide Embroidery Design Competition2010/2011. Submission deadline is October 1, 2010. The Studio of The Royal School of Needlework will stitch the winning design and the designer will win a cash prize and 2-day trip to London for the anniversary event in 2011. For more information on the Broderers and their competition, please go to their website www.broderers.co.uk (Many thanks to Nancy Backus for sharing her experience with us.)

OF GENERAL INTEREST

Good news! As EGA members we qualify for JoAnn Fabric's sewing and craft guild discount of 10%. To get the discount, you must first register by going to www.joann.com/VIP (You must register online and cannot register at the store. This is a change from information posted earlier.) The first time you must show a pictured ID (driver's license) and your EGA membership card to the manager who will authorize your discount card. This card is good on most in-store and online purchases, including sale items. Keep the card with you as it is good for a year. (Shared by Peg Hill.)

U.S. NEEDLEWORK DESIGNERS BLOGS

Have you ever wanted to know what goes on in the minds of those folks who create the beautiful designs we covet so much? Nancy Backus has shared this list of the personal blogs of some of the top needlework designers in the United States. You may or may not gain more insight into the design process, however you may find you like the people behind the designs as much as the designs.

Blackbird Designs - Alma Allen
http://blackbirddesigns.blogspot.com
With My Needle - Ellen Chester
http://withmyneedle-ellen.blogspot.com
Thistle Threads - Tricia Wilson Nguyen
http://www.thistle-threads.com/blog
The Drawn Thread - Cynthia Zittle
http://www.thedrawnthread.blogspot.com
Homespun Elegance - Sandra Sullivan
http://plainfancymerchant.blogspot.com
Willing Hands - Betsy Morgan
http://willinghandsstitching.blogspot.com
Primitive Traditions - Cathy Campbell
http://primitivetraditions.blogspot.com
Milady's Needle - Gloria Moore
http://miladysneedle.blogspot.com
Little House Needleworks - Diane Williams
http://littlehouseneedleworks.blogspot.com
Blue Ribbon Designs - Belinda Karls-Nace
http://blueribbondesigns.blogspot.com
Praiseworthy Stitches - Pam Lewis & Susen Rohm
http://praiseworthystitches.blogspot.com
Arelate Studio - Nancy Spies
http://nancyspies.blogspot.com
Cherished Stitches - Louise Henderson
http://cherishedstitches.blogspot.com
Midsummer Night Designs - Deborah Thorpe
http://stitchingandscribbling.blogspot.com
The Sampler Girl - Tanya Marie Anderson
http://atthehoneysuckletree.blogspot.com
Jeanette Douglas Designs - Jeanette Douglas
http://www.jeanettedouglas.com/wordpress
Plum Street Samplers - Paulette Stewart
http://plumstreetsamplers.typepad.com
Shepherds Bush Printworks - Teri Richards & Tina Herman
http://shepherdsbushblog.blogspot.com
Stacy Nash Primitives - Stacy Nash
http://stacynashprimitivedesigns.blogspot.com
Stitching Treasures Needlework Designs - Linda Duree
http://stitchingtreasures-designs.blogspot.com

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER

2011 GLR CORRESPONDENCE COURSE SELECTIONS

Project Name	Embroidery Type	Designer	Cost
Brazilian Embroidery Purse	Brazilian	Ganet Burr	$50.00
Chinese Checkers	Canvas Work	Mimi Selick	$48.50
Dresden Garden	Dresden Lace	Jane Ellen Balzuweit	$60.00
Lydia’s Necessities	Hardanger	Judith Gulick	$50.00
Plum Blossom	Japanese Sashiko	Lois Kershner	$50.00
Circle with Blue Flower	Silk & Metal Thread	Margaret Kinsey	$70.00
Dresden Kitty	Pulled Work	Wanda Linsley	$40.00
A Memory Book: Scrapbooking with a Needle	Creative reuse of vintage linens	Cathy Trostmann	$55.00
Hummingbird & Honeysuckle	Stumpwork	Luan Callery	$50.00
Swiss Sampler	Counted Thread	Ilse Altherr	$52.50

In its continuing mission to stimulate the appreciation of embroidery and to advance the highest standards of excellence in the practice of embroidery, EGA offers many educational opportunities through its Correspondence Courses. Chapters are not able to offer every course that would meet all the interests of every member of their group. To that end, the GLR underwrites the cost of a selected group of classes each year that will allow chapter members to pursue their interests without having to form a group from their home chapter. The GLR CC Coordinator serves as the liaison between the class participants and the designers/teachers. You will not have a local group leader and you will be stitching on your own.

Many exciting new classes are being offered for 2011 as well as some outstanding perennials. Many techniques and all skill levels are represented. For details regarding course content and the approximate cost of supplies, please refer to the Correspondence Course section of the Education Catalog that is available online at the EGA website, www.egausa.org.

Registration deadline is November 1, 2010. Send the registration form below to the GLR CC Coordinator who will order and distribute instruction materials and remind you of deadlines to submit your work for evaluation. The deadline to submit pieces for evaluations is Oct. 15, 2011. The cost includes the course fee, instruction materials and postage with delivery confirmation. You will receive your manuals in late January or early February 2011. You are responsible for purchasing your supplies. Supply sources are provided with each course. If you have any questions, please call me at 920-469-1799 or email me at kkristen858@att.net. Send the registration form below with your check made payable to Great Lakes Region EGA to Kris Kyles, GLR CC Coordinator, 3346 Langdon St., Green Bay WI 54311

COURSE TITLE COURSE FEE

1. ____________________________________________

2. ____________________________________________

3. ____________________________________________

Your name _____________________________________

EGA Membership # _______________________________

Address __________________________________________

______________________________________________

Phone ______________ Email address __________________

CHRISTMAS PARTY RESERVATIONS
Check your menu choice:

______ Fettuccine Alfredo with Grilled Chicken (Fettuccine tossed with Alfredo sauce with broccoli and mushrooms and topped with sliced chicken breast) served with house salad and garlic bread, beverage, and choice of dessert. Cost $26.

______ Fresh walleye Almondine ( Lightly floured fillet of walleye sauteed and finished with almonds) served with house salad, vegetable medley, rice pilaf, roll, beverage, and choice of dessert. Cost $30.

______ Prime Rib of Beef (Slow roasted prime rib with creamed horseradish sauce, au jus - 8 oz.) served with house salad, vegetable medley, redskin potatoes, roll, beverage, and choice of dessert. Cost $30.

______ Vegetarian Lasagna (Layered pasta in rich sauce with Italian cheeses) served with house salad, garlic bread, beverage, and choice of dessert. Cost $24.

Choose your dessert (included in cost)

______ Sherbet ______ Ice Cream

______ Chocolate cake ______ Fruit pie

Your name: _____________________________________________

Amount enclosed: _____________

Return this form to Alice Rufener by November 1, 2010. (Address available in our directory.) Make checks payable to GGR-EGA.

ADVERTISERS
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2010-04-28T18:52:00.000-07:00

MAY-AUGUST 2010

MUSINGS FROM MARIJO - A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT

The weather lately has reminded me that summer is almost here. I'm looking forward to a slightly less hectic pace and more outdoor time - at least until the heat and humidity send me back to air conditioned indoors. For EGA, summer means we will again be meeting on the fourth Saturday of June, July, and August at the Gaines Township library for all day stitch-ins. I'm especially eager to come to the Casalguidi workshop in August. (Note: If you don't want to do the workshop, you are still welcome to come and stitch your own project in August.)

The other summer business for EGA is establishing a slate of officers for our chapter. Vonnie H., Kelly L., and I have volunteered to be the Nominating Committee. We need to elect a new President, Vice President, Region Rep/Education Chair, and Treasurer. When one of us calls you this summer and asks you to fill one of these offices for two years, please give your chapter some of your time so we can thrive and grow.

CALENDAR
May

June
7 - Sampler Group Monday at 12:30 - Call Susie H.
26 - Summer Stitch-In Saturday at 9:30 am at Gaines Township Library
July
15 - Last day to reserve instructions or kits for August Casalguidi workshop
24 - Summer Stitch-In at 9:30 am at Gaines Township Library
August
10 - Newsletter information due
20 - Board meeting Friday at 9:30 am at Marijo's
28 - Summer Stitch-In Saturday at 9:30 am at Gaines Township Library. Dick will be walking us through the creation of a Casalguidi Altoid box. See below for information.

REMINDER

ANNUAL POTLUCK

We will hold our annual potluck dinner at the Heather Hills Retirement Village. We'll set up at 5:45 pm and dinner will begin at 6:00 pm. Eileen Bennett is going to give a presentation on the Michigan Sampler Survey, which should be outstanding. You will need no stitching supplies for this. As Peg noted when she was our Newsletter Editor/Doyenne: "You, of course, may want to show off your latest project so we can all see (and decide we absolutely need another project for our stashes). This meeting is always a good time to invite a friend who is interested in embroidery and might be a potential member. A non-member may attend one meeting before joining."

Sign-up sheets for what to bring were passed around at the April day and evening meetings. Otherwise, plan to bring dishes based on the following groupings determined by the first letter of your last name.

Salads - A-F
Desserts - G-K
Main Dishes - M-R
Side Dishes - S-Z

NEWS YOU CAN USE
PAYING YOUR DUES

EGA dues of $43 are due no later than the May potluck dinner so that Claudia has time to mail them to EGA headquarters. Please send them to Claudia D. - her address is in the Membership Directory.

CORRECTION
Membership Directories will be available at the September meeting, not the May meeting as announced earlier.

ELECTIONS, ELECTIONS, ELECTIONS!

For the coming year, we need nominations for President, Vice President, Region Representative, and Treasurer. The Nominating Committee members are Kelly L., Vonnie H., and Marijo. Please contact any of them if you'd like to be considered for one of the open positions. [No, you may not nominate anyone else without their permission - mandatory service (aka the draft) was abolished in 1972.]

AUGUST WORKSHOP - CASALGUIDI ALTOID BOX

Dick H. will be taking us through the Casalguidi project that he took earlier this year. Jane Ellen, the instructor, has agreed to provide the kits or the instructions for the project. To get only the instructions costs $10, and the full kit (instructions, Altoid box, lining, padding, needles, thread, magnetic strip, and fabric) costs $30 plus shipping. Please contact Dick by July 15 with your choice so that he can get them ordered and delivered by August 28. Please contact Dick with any questions.

EGA LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
There are several EGA events happening in June.

June 4-6 Stitchin' on the Ridge Ridgecrest, North Carolina - 2010 CAR Region Seminar. Teachers are Lynn Payette, Deanna Powell, Denise Pratt, and Sandy Rodgers. Registration deadline is May 15. The brochure is available on the region website www.egacarolinas.org

June 8-12 Stitching Safari Dallas, Texas - 2010 South Central Region Seminar. One, two, and three-day classes are offered. Instructors include Margaret Bendig, Tanja Berlin, Lynn Payette, Marnie Ritter, Carolyn Sherman, Catherine Theron, Terry Dryden, Deborah Forney, Pam Gardner, Carole Lake, Tony Minieri, Sylvia Murariu, Gay Ann Rogers, and Cindy Valentine. More information is available on the region website www.egascr.org

June 17-19 Mystery by Design Salt Lake City, Utah - Rocky Mountain Region Seminar. Eighteen classes offered over the three days, including a mystery class called Summer Surprise. Author Monica Ferris will be the guest speaker at the Opening Banquet and attending one of the Thursday classes. More information can be found at www.slcega.org

EGA NATIONAL NEWS
National has announced that a new National Outreach Program is available Stitching for Literacy Bookmark Challenge.
Celebrate reading and stitching. We are thrilled to announce EGA's participation in the Needle and ThREAD: Stitching for Literacy 2010 Bookmark Challenge. The Challenge seeks to promote both literacy and embroidery by donating hand-stitched bookmarks to schools and libraries where they are awarded to kids for reading accomplishments. More information can be found under Outreach at www.egausa.org

WEST MICHIGAN LACE SHOW
The West Michigan Lace Group is holding its annual trunk show at the Hampton Inn North (Alpine and 96) on Monday, May 10. Kathy Kirchner owns a lace supply store near Detroit. She always brings an interesting selection of fibers; books about knitting, crocheting, tatting, and bobbin lace; and assorted gadgets. The show is open to the public from 4:00 pm to about 8:00 pm. Call Marijo for more info or just come.

NEW ENGLAND'S STITCHERS' RETREATS

ABC Stitch Therapy & Stitch Therapy Needlepoint of Grantham, New Hampshire, is sponsoring two retreats in 2010 that will be held in the historic Enfield Shaker Museum in Enfield, New Hampshire. The Spring Retreat will be held from May 20-23, 2010, with Belinda Karls-Nace of Blue Ribbon Designs, who has designed a project piece to be mounted on the box lid of a handmade oval Shaker box, along with several accessory smalls to go into the box. The Autumn Retreat will be held from October 8-11, 2010, with Thea Dueck of The Victoria Sampler, who will present a Christmas themed design, including complete finishing instructions.

PAT'S PEREGRINATIONS
- Where I share interesting stitching related things I've found -
Speaking of Casalguidi
Sharon b's Stitch Dictionary has a wonderful discussion of the technique and its Italian history: http://inaminuteago.com/stitchdict/stitch/castalguidi.html

Eye Candy
For the Needlepoint lovers among us -

One person's attempt to stitch a different bargello design every day for a year: http://bargelloneedlepoint.com

For the lover of needlebooks, biscornus and other smalls, there are two places to go and drool: the World's Largest Collection of Smalls -
http://theworldslargest collectionofsmalls.blogspot.com

And the World's Largest Collection of Smalls Too -
http://theworldslargestcollectionofsmallstoo.blogspot.com

For those of us who are finishing-challenged, Focus on Finishing is a site with step by step tutorials (with pictures!) on how to do various methods of finishing -
http://focusonfinishing.wordpress.com/

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER
Our chapter newsletter is provided to our members in different ways: through US mail; via email; and online at www.ega-ggr.blogspot.com When you can't access your email or find your newsletter, you can always find our newsletter online at our blogspot.

NEWSLETTER ADVERTISERS

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2010-03-01T16:30:00.000-08:00

MARCH-APRIL 2010

MUSINGS FROM MARIJO - A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT

We've just seen March come in like a lamb, so this is a perfect time to think about EGA activities for the rest of the year. All of us need to pay our EGA dues of $43 by the end of April, and a new EGA-GGR Member Directory will be printed by the May potluck. Have you thought about what you're bringing to the potluck? I'm looking forward to hearing Eileen Bennett speak about the Michigan Sampler Survey. Although we won't be electing officers until December, it's time to form the Nominating Committee - are you willing to participate this year? This guild functions due to our efforts and it is easy to think that someone else will "do it" - is this the year when you are the someone? Let me know how you want to contribute to this chapter this year. And whatever you do, don't forget to do some stitching as recent health studies have shown that the needle arts have a positive effect on health.

CALENDAR
March
8 - Sampler Group Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
18 - Board Meeting Thursday at 7:00 PM at Marijo's
25 - Evening Meeting Thursday at 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
26 - Day Meeting Friday at 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church

April
5 - Sampler Group Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
10 - NEWSLETTER INFORMATION DUE
16 - Board Meeting Friday at 9:30 AM at Marijo's
22 - Evening Meeting Thursday at 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
23 - Day Meeting Friday at 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church

DAY PROGRAMS
March
* * * UPDATE * * * Margie is putting together an Easter egg ornament kit. Cost to be determined. Bring your usual stitching supplies.
Hostesses: Eleanore & Vonnie
April
Vonnie and Starlette will be presenting a program on shadow work. A kit will be available for $5. Bring your usual stitching supplies.
Hostesses: Connie W. & Starlette

EVENING PROGRAMS
March
Nancy is designing a needlebook for our sewing baskets.
Hostesses: Marilyn B & Janalee
April
Nancy is designing a Clover Cutter Cover for our sewing baskets.
Hostesses: Susan D & Pat A

MAY MEETING - POTLUCK DINNER
Eileen Bennett has agreed to be our speaker at the May potluck meeting. Her presentation will be on the Michigan Sampler Survey.

MANY THANKS to Cam Sankatsing for taking photos at the Christmas Party!

STITCHING AT THE MUSEUM

Our chapter participated in National's Stitch-in-Public Day last month at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Ten of our members brought pieces to stitch and embroidery pieces for display. We had many examples of embroidery including cross stitch, blackwork, whitework, and Hardanger, to name a few. Many people stopped to admire our pieces and share their stories of working with embroidery. Thanks to Dick for setting this up with the museum. This was our third year stitching at the museum and it's always fun for our members to share their love of embroidery with others. Thanks, too, to our members who participated in this day: Marijo, Judy, Dick, Geri, Janalee, Kelly, Alice, Margie, Karen, and Jane.

ADDRESS CHANGE
Please make the following changes in your EGA Member Directory:
Dick has a new email address: wrhamlin at juno dot com
Marijo has a new email address: marijodb at att dot net

A new up-to-date Member Directory will be published after the dues for the coming year are collected in April.

ELECTIONS, ELECTIONS

For the coming year, we need nominations for President, First Vice-President, Region Representative, and Treasurer. Marijo would like to have a volunteer from both the day and evening groups to serve with her on the Nominating Committee. Please contact Marijo if you are interested.

REGION NEWS
Michigan State Day

It's not too early to start making plans for Michigan State Day on August 11, 2010. Registration opens March 1, 2010, and closes June 1, 2010. Class registrations are on a first come - first served basis. Registration is $45.00, including lunch and class instruction. It does not include kit fees. Three classes will be offered:

- Picnic Basket for All Seasons taught by Ann Strite-Kurz
- Golden Starflower Box designed by Carol Sherman and taught by Myrtis Justiano
- A Spot in Michigan - A Stitcher's Pocket and Fittings taught by Sherri Jones of Patrick's Woods.

You can get a copy of the brochure and registration form by going to the Great Lakes Region website at www.ega-glr.org and clicking on the Region Info & News link, or contact the registrar directly at stitchlady35 at hotmail dot com

More Learning Opportunities

Mill Race Chapter EGA invites you to participate in their class offerings this year. Rose Kotnik of Tomorrow's Antiques will be teaching her beaded scissors fob An Acorn for Andrew on April 10, 2010. If you already have the kit and would like to come, cost will be $5.00 for the afternoon. Please indicate this on your registration form. On October 1-2, 2010, Betsy Morgan will be coming to teach her Toy Chest, and on October 3, her All Seasons Square. Locations are not set yet but will be in the Northville-Novi area. Class descriptions are below.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Mill Race Chapter EGA

Workshop Registration Form
Instructor: Rose Kotnik of Tomorrow's Antiques
AN ACORN FOR ANDREW
Saturday April 10, 2010
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Location to be determined

NAME: ________________________________________

ADDRESS: ______________________________________

CITY: __________________STATE:_______ ZIP:_______

PHONE: __________________ EMAIL: _______________

Registration deadline is March 15, 2010
Please send Registration Form to: Debbie Malewich, 1255 Aline Drive, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236
Kit fee: $30.00 Please make checks payable to Mill Race Chapter EGA

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

BETSY MORGAN CLASSES

OCTOBER 1, 2, & 3, 2010

TOY CHEST:

WHEN: October 1 & 2, 2010, 10:00 a.m. – 4 p.m.

TOTAL COST: $175.00, members; $195.00, non-members

Down Payment: $100.00 by May 8; Remainder by Aug. 8

ALL YEAR SQUARE CUBE:

WHEN: October 3, 2010, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

TOTAL COST: $75.00, members; $85.00, non-members

Down Payment: $35.00 by May 8; Remainder by Aug. 8

LOCATION FOR BOTH CLASSES:

Northville Area-Confirmations and locations to be sent via email

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Return bottom portion to registrar - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Enter amount enclosed:

Toy Chest Class

Down Payment/Payment in Full _____________

All Year Square Cube

Down Payment/Payment in Full _____________

Pre-Stitching kit mailed to you – add $2.00 _____________

Payment—Date Paid____________ _____________

Balance Due—Date Paid___________ _____________

Name: _______________________ □Member □Non-Member

Address: ____________________ City __________ State _____ Zip ________

Phone: _______________ Email ____________________________________

REGISTRAR: Michelle Sayre, 25226 Sullivan Lane, Novi, MI 48375 248-202-8960

QUESTIONS ABOUT CLASSES: Sharon Schlemmer 248-347-1736

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

EGA NATIONAL NEWS

National has announced two Extended Study Programs for this spring. One program will be on off-loom bead work and the other will be a master class in blackwork. You can learn more about these programs or download a brochure on National's website at www.egausa.org. National is also soliciting nominations for two awards. The Bobby Pilling Memorial Award is presented for an original piece of needlework that "goes outside the lines". The Gold Thread Award recognizes outstanding individuals who best exemplify EGA's purpose. More information about these awards and nominations forms can also be found on National's website.

NEW BOOK BY BETSY KRIEG SALM

If you have taken classes with Tricia Wilson Nguyen, you may be familiar with Betsy Krieg Salm's work. She is the artist who supplied the painted wooden accessories (threadwinders, sewing boxes, etc.) for many of Tricia's class pieces. Betsy's new book Women's Painted Furniture, 1790-1830 American Schoolgirl Art documents the history and the process of this largely unknown decorative art. Pre-orders for this book are now being taken on the University Press of New England's website, wwwupne.com for $60.00. For more examples of Betsy's work, check out her website www.betsykriegsalm.com

PAT'S PEREGRINATIONS
- Where I share interesting stitching related things I've found -

For English embroidery enthusiasts: http://historyofembroidery.blogspot.com/ where an English textile artist, helen Cowans, covers interesting topics in historic English embroidery.

Speaking of Tricia Wilson Nguyen, in her blog The Embroiderer's Story, http://thistle-threads.com.mytempweb.com/blog she has been documenting the work involved in recreating a 17th Century Lady's Jacket. Fascinating!

CHAPTER NEWSLETTER

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2010-01-03T13:44:00.000-08:00

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2010

Musings from Marijo - A Word from Our President

It has been a cold and snowy winter so far and it seems so far from spring. But that means it's perfect weather for sitting somewhere cozy and warm and well lit with a stitching project. I hope you are all getting a lot done. I'm just trying to get my UFO pile under control. I have my eye on a couple of pieces but I'm determined to finish three things first. The new things will be my reward for finishing the others.

I am looking forward to February 13 at the Grand Rapids Public Museum for Stitch-in-Public Day. The staff at the museum are so friendly. It was great fun for the last two years when we did ethnic embroidery and Christmas themed pieces. This year is wide open to anything you want to bring. I hope to see a variety of styles and projects.
On a practical note, because our evening meeting place has moved to Heather Hills Retirement Village, snow policy will be if Forest Hills schools are closed, we will not meet.

CALENDAR
January
4 - Sampler Group Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
21 - Board Meeting Thursday 7:00 PM at Marijo's
22 - Day Meeting Friday 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church
28 - Evening Meeting Thursday 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village

February
1 - Sampler Meeting Monday at 12:30 PM - Call Susie H.
13 - Stitch-In Public Day Saturday at the Grand Rapids Public Museum 11am-2pm - Bring a project to work on and 2-3 pieces for display. Call Dick H for details.
19 - Board Meeting Friday at 9:30 AM at Marijo's
25 - Evening Meeting Thursday at 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
26 - Day Meeting Friday at 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church

DAY PROGRAMS
January

We will work on Habitat for Humanity Samplers. Bring a 12" X 14" piece of 28-count linen or 14-count Aida and DMC floss 798 and 912 and your usual stitching supplies. Patterns will be provided.

Hostess: Marijo
February

With St. Patrick's Day around the corner, Margie will give a brief presentation on Celtic designs in embroidery. Kits will be available for purchase ($4) for a Celtic scissors fob in your choice of red or green. Bring your usual stitching supplies and your Celtic embroidery for Show-and-Tell.
Hostess: Margie

March
To be announced
April
Vonnie H & Starlette P will present a program on shadow embroidery. Kits are available for $5.

EVENING PROGRAMS
January

We will work on Habitat for Humanity Samplers. Bring a 12" X 14" piece of 28-count linen or 14-count Aida and DMC floss 798 and 912 and your usual stitching supplies. Patterns will be provided.

Hostess: Jane
February

Nancy has prepared a paper Valentine Needlekeep for February's project. The kit will be $5.00. It includes the 3-D paper Valentine to cut out, wool felt, 2 foam glitter hearts, a small rhinestone red heart, 3 clear dots to play with. Bring small sharp scissors, pinking or scalloping scissors, and wear something you don't mind getting glitter or glue on. Supplied for your use at class are Elmer's glue, toothpicks for spreading glue, Martha Stewart glue and Martha Stewart glitter colors Florentine Gold, Blue sapphire, Blue Topaz (coarse glitter), and Malachite (green). Members may choose to bring their own glitter, glue, and extra embellishments.

Hostess needed. Call Marijo to volunteer.

CHRISTMAS PARTY RECAP

Despite being rescheduled due to inclement weather, the Christmas party was a success. The food was good, the company better, and our donors were very generous. A list of our donors and their contributions are given toward the end of this newsletter. Please remember to express your appreciation when you encounter our local donors.

EGA NATIONAL NEWS
On January 4, 2010, Lorie Welker, EGA President, announced that the Embroiderers' Guild of America has terminated the lease on the 426East Jefferson building in Louisville, Kentucky. A portion of the announcement is provided below:
We have entered into a month to month lease at 2000 Grasmere Drive in Louisville. Our new office is located in Louisville's Highlands, an area known for its historic homes, scenic parks, independent businesses and vibrant arts community. It is conveniently located near downtown, major interstates and Louisville International Airport. We have procured a post office box near this office and will use this address: 1355 Bardstown Road, Suite 157, Louisville, Kentucky 40204.
We have started with 700 square feet and are hoping to include two additional small offices which would give us 1,000 square feet. This space contains our mailing and copy center as well as our computer server and phone line and EGA merchandise. With the current space, two staff members may work from the office. The remainder of EGA's belongings have gone into storage and the collection continues to be housed with Gwen Nelson, TVR RD.
This arrangement will most likely be in place for most of 2010 and the Board will be evaluating EGA's long term goals and our next steps throughout the year. Thank you for your patience as we worked through this difficult time. The EGA staff and Board are hoping we can move forward and focus on the needs of our membership as we begin the new year.

EGA-GLR NEWS
Great Lakes Region Seminar 2010 River of Thread will be held April 25-29, 1010, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. GLR Seminar 2010 is a four-day event with one set of four-day classes, two sets of two-day classes and Sunday mini classes. The event begins with registration on Sunday and concludes with the closing banquet on Thursday. Please consult the EGA-GLR website for full information: www.ega-glr.org

PAT'S PEREGRINATIONS
--Where I share interesting stitching related things I've found--
Have you encountered the blog sharon b's Pin Tangle (www.pintangle.com)? She's creating a band sampler she calls Love of Stitching band sampler which is 6 inches wide and currently 44 feet, 5 inches long and she's still adding to it. It's done with specialty stitches and Sharon provides tremendously detailed photographs of stitches. Sharon is also a crazy quilter and provides fascinating photos of her work with the techniques she uses, not to mention challenges, links to other inspirational blogs, and more. It's a good way to get out of a stitching slump or get new project ideas.
Here is a fun thing from the Dayton EGA's WebWanderings December 09 newsletter: - 1907 Herrschner's catalog online: http://tinyurl.com/yfzs42g

CHRISTMAS DONATIONS 2009
THANK YOU to all of our donors for their generosity and support!
Charles Craft, Inc. - Catalogs, mini stockings, fabric
Coats & Clark, Inc./Anchor - Anchor floss assortment
J.T. Stitchery & Frame Shop - Three booklets
Kelmscott - Boxes
Leisure Arts, Inc. - Two Encyclopedia of Needlework books
Peacock Alley Needlepoint - Four-piece Zecca stitching set
Praiseworthy Stitches - Patterns
Rainbow Gallery - Thread card assortment and patterns
Redex Industries, Inc. - Udder Cream packets
Rosewood Manor - Charts, patterns w/bellpull and charm
Stitching Bits and Bobs - Patterns, needle minders, kits, scissors, coasters
The Prairie Schooler - Patterns
The Silver Lining - Rose patterns
The Victoria Sampler - Patterns
Waxing Moon - Patterns, Halloween Issue
Weeks Dye Works - Muslin, floss
Wichelt Improts, Inc. - Patterns, Just Cross Stitch Halloween Issue
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR NEWSLETTER ADVERTISERS (highlighted) ON THIS LIST!

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2009-11-06T08:32:00.000-08:00

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2009

NOTICE - DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER, THE CHRISTMAS PARTY HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY DECEMBER 17. SAME PLACE & SAME TIME. CONTACT ALICE WITH QUESTIONS.

MUSINGS FROM MARIJO - A WORD FOR OUR PRESIDENT
The world is getting ready for winter - for many of us, that means more time inside for stitching. I hope all of you have a stash of projects to hold you through the winter. I certainly do.

Remember to keep Saturday, February 13, open to stitch at the Grand Rapids Museum. This will be the third year we will be doing something at the museum. We always have a good time and it's good publicity for us.

As you can see from this abbreviated newsletter - we still need an editor. Please consider doing this for our group. EGA runs on volunteers. What can you do?

Remember our Christmas party is the second Thursday in December this year. It will be the same place as last year. We'll start with a short business meeting to okay the budget and install officers. We will be collecting mittens, hats, and scarves for In The Image. We will also be exchanging ornaments. I hope to see you there.

CALENDAR
NOVEMBER
2 Sampler Group - Monday, 12:30 pm
20 Board Meeting - Friday, 9:30 am at Marijo's house

DECEMBER
7 Sampler Group - Monday 12:30 pm
NOTE CHANGE OF DATE
17 Christmas Party - Thursday, 5:30 pm at Radisson Hotel
.

CHAPTER BYLAWS UPDATE

Our chapter approved several amendments to our bylaws at the October membership meetings. The amended bylaws were then sent to National for its approval. Thanks to our Bylaws Committee - Margie S., Vonnie H., and Peg H. - for its help in reviewing and revising our bylaws. We will not need to review our bylaws again until 2019.

CHRISTMAS PARTY SCHEDULE
Thursday December 17 - NOTE CHANGE OF DATE
5:30 Cocktails (on your own)
6:00 Brief Business Meeting (installation of officers and approval of the budget)
6:30 Dinner

JANUARY MEETINGS

Both the day and the night groups will work on Habitat samplers. Bring white or off-white 14 or 28 count fabric to work on (cut at least 12" by 14") and DMC 798 and 912. Patterns will be provided. Bring the usual stitching supplies.

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2009-08-27T20:19:00.000-07:00

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2009

MUSINGS FROM MARIJO - A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT

Now is the time of year I get energized. Cooler days make me want to be doing something outside instead of sitting in the air conditioning. I'm looking forward to new projects and learning new skills.

I enjoyed learning a new finishing technique from Betsy Morgan. I've already finished that project and used the technique to finish a UFO (one down - twenty to go).

I also enjoyed the canvas work project Peg H. and I did with the Marshall EGA Chapter.

I'm looking for an easy project to be a "make-it-and-take-it" project for February's Stitch-In at the Grand Rapid's Museum. I know it seems a long way away, but the museum will put it in their brochure if we can get it to them soon. Please talk to me the next time you see me if you have ideas.

CALENDAR
September
14 Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM at Susie's house
18 Board Meeting - Friday at 9:00 AM at Marijo's house
24 Night Meeting - Thursday at 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
25 Day Meeting - Friday at 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church
October
5 Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 PM at Pat P's house
10 NEWSLETTER INFORMATION due
20 Board Meeting - Tuesday at 7:00 PM at Jane's house
22 Night Meeting - Thursday at 6:45 PM at Heather Hills Retirement Village
23 Day Meeting - Friday at 9:00 AM at First United Methodist Church
December
10 Christmas Party - Thursday at the Radisson Hotel

NEW MEETING LOCATION FOR NIGHT GROUP

Beginning with the September meeting, the night group will be meeting at Heather Hills Retirement Village. This is located at 1055 Forest Hill Avenue SE, on the west side of Forest Hill Avenue, south of Cascade Road. They have invited us to meet there for free.

There is a small amount of parking in the front, but most will need to park in the south lot. They have promised to put out signs directing us to appropriate parking. A side door will be marked and left unlocked so that we may enter by the parking lot rather than going outside to the front. The parking lot is well lit and Heather Hills does have security.

We will be in one of their recreation rooms. This room is spacious enough for us to move around. There are a number of long tables that we like for our work. The lighting is excellent for embroidery. The room has a small hospitality area for our treats. Directions will be well marked from either parking area to our room.

DAY PROGRAMS
September
Hostesses: Dick H. and Rosie A.
Program: Betty N. will present a program for which you need not bring any stitching supplies
October
Hostesses: Diane H. and Annie B.
Program: Connie W. will show a video on peyote stitch.

NIGHT PROGRAMS
September
Hostesses: Carolyn N. and Pat A.
Program: Nancy has designed an adorable button bag and a thimble case that coordinate with our set. Bring your usual stitching supplies.

October
Hostesses: Mary W. and Karen V.
Program: Nancy is designing a ruler case to go with our accessories. At the September meeting she will discuss any special materials needed.

WORKSHOP
Betsy Morgan taught two delightful workshops. Twenty people in the morning and twelve in the afternoon had the opportunity to learn advanced finishing techniques. Betsy was an excellent teacher who made it feel like an individual class. She also was a delightful person and some of our members enjoyed dinner with her Saturday evening.
On the day before, due to a misunderstanding, we almost had no place to hold our workshop. Bob F., Judy's husband, saved our workshop and got us special permission to use Banner of Christ Church. It was perfect for our needs. We extend a big hand of appreciation to Bob for making our event happen. Jane did an excellent job on the luncheon and snacks. We all oohed and aahed over the door prizes made by Jane, Judy, Alice, and Carol.

BOARD NEWS
BYLAWS
Our national requires that our bylaws be reviewed every 7 years which is this year for us. Margie S.chaired this committee with Vonnie H. and Peggy H. as members. This process allows us to align our organization with our current practices. The recommended revisions were presented to our board and then to national who approved our recommended changes. A copy of these changes can be found by clicking on August (2) issue under Blog Archives (left column of this issue). The changes will appear at the bottom of this issue. These changes will be presented for the members' consideration and discussion at the September meetings. Ratification will be voted on at the October meetings.

NOMINATIONS
The offices of Secretary (day and night), Program Chair (day and night), and Workshop Chair need to be filled this year. Nominations will be presented in September, and the election is held at the October meetings. New officers will be installed at the Christmas meeting.
Nominations to be presented are :
Secretary PM - Janalee K.
Secretary AM - no candidate
Programs PM - Nancy B.
Programs AM - (co-ordinated as a group)
Workshops - no candidate
Additional candidates may be nominated from the floor with the permission of the person.

DUES
For those who usually pay in the fall, your dues are now payable. This year they are only $21.50. A reminder that next year all dues will be collected in May and will be $43. If you do not see Claudia at a meeting, you may mail her your check, payable to GGREGA. (See directory for her address.)

CHRISTMAS PARTY
Note that this years our party is on a new date, the second Thursday in December which is December 10. We will again be at the Radisson Hotel on Ann Street. The committee is hard at work planning fun and surprises. If you plan on participating in the ornament exchange, you will want to start deciding on what pattern to do. We will again collect mittens, hats, and scarves for poor children. The menu choices are listed below on the reservation sheet. These are due to Alice Rufener by November 1.

CHRISTMAS PARTY RESERVATION

______Fettuccine Alfredo with Grilled Chicken (Fettuccine tossed with Alfredo sauce with broccoli and mushrooms and topped with sliced chicken breast), served with house salad and garlic bread, beverage , and choice of dessert (below). Cost $26.50

______Fresh Walleye Almondine (lightly floured fillet of walleye sauteed and finished with almonds) served with house salad, vegetable medley, rice pilaf, roll, beverage, and choice of dessert (below). Cost $30

_____Prime Rib of Beef (slow roasted prime rib with creamed horseradish sauce, au jus - 8 oz.) served with house salad, vegetable medley, redskin potatoes, roll, beverage, and choice of dessert (below). Cost $30

______Vegetarian Lasagna (layered pasta in rich sauce with Italian cheeses) served with house salad, garlic bread, beverage, and choice of dessert (below). Cost $24

Choose your dessert (included with each dinner)

______Sherbet

______Chocolate Cake

______Ice Cream

______Fruit Pie

Your name: __________________________

Am't enclosed: ________

Return this form to Alice R. (See directory for her address.)

Reservations due November 1, 2009

EDUCATION
CORRESPONDENCE COURSES
Our National offers a wide variety of high quality courses that allow members to take intensive learning in a specialized area. After completing the course, you will be able to submit your work to the National teacher and receive a valuable critique. The listing of these courses may be seen in Needle Arts or on the website http://www.egausa.org/. There are four ways to take these courses:
1. Form an interest group of about 10 members here to share the costs and appoint one person to serve as coordinator.
2. For those with only one or two local members interested, the Great Lakes Region serves as coordinator for a number of classes each year. The list for 2010 may be found below. You must register by November and you will receive your materials some time in January.
3. The website sponsors two new classes every other month.
4. Each edition of Needle Arts has class special specific to that edition.

2010 GLR CORRESPONDENCE COURSES
Molly: A Dimensional Bear (Australian Wool Embroidery) Dianne Lewandowski $50
Beading Color Play (Beadwork) Peggy Wright $55
Lady Larkspur Lace Necklace (Beadwork) Jeannette Carmichael $53
Cleopatra's Cat (Canvas Sampler) Mary Long $60
Dutch Legacy (Canvas Shading & Blackwork) Sandy Rodgers $62
Angelina (Italian Drawn Thread) Barbara Kershaw $50
Ikebana (Pulled Thread) Ilse Altherr $51
Tiramisu (Blackwork) Dakota Rogers $57
Crazy Patch Adventure (Surface Embroidery) Kathleen N. Herman $45
Shading Stitches (Surface Embroidery) Judy Jeroy $55
Silk & Metal Embroidery (Silk & Metal) Kay Stanis $53
Silk Ribbon Pond (Silk Ribbon Embroidery) Kim Sanders $50
In its continuing mission to stimulate the appreciation of embroidery and to advance the highest standards of excellence in the practice of embroidery, EGA offers many educational opportunities through its Correspondence Courses. Chapters are not able to offer every course that would meet all the interests of every member of their group. To that end, the GLR underwrites the cost of a selected group of classes each year that will allow chapter members to pursue their interests without having to form a group from their home chapter. The GLR CC Coordinator serves as the liaison between the class participants and the designers/teachers. You will not have a local group leader and you will be stitching on your own.
Many new exciting classes are being offered for 2010 as well as some outstanding perennials. Many techniques and all skill levels are represented. For details regarding course content and the approximate cost of supplies, please refer to the Correspondence Course section of the 2009-2010 Education Catalog attached to your December 2008 Needle Arts magazine.
Registration deadline is November 1, 2009. Send the registration form below to the GLR Coordinator who will order and distribute instruction materials, and remind you of deadlines to submit your work for teacher evaluation. The deadline to submit pieces for class evaluations will be October 15, 2010. The Coordinator receives and sorts the work, sends the pieces to the course instructor, receives them back from the teacher with critiques, repacks them and returns them to you. The cost includes the course fee, instruction materials, and postage with delivery confirmation. You will receive you manuals in late January or early February 2010. You are responsible for purchasing your own supplies. Supply sources are provided with each course. If you have any questions, you can call the GLR Coordinator or email her. Send the registration form below to her with your check payable to the Great Lakes Region EGA. See the GLR's website http://www.ega-glr.org/ for the CC Coordinator's name, mailing and email addresses, and phone number.

COURSE TITLE & COURSE FEE

1. ______________________________________________

2. ______________________________________________

3. ______________________________________________

Your name _______________________________________

EGA Membership # _________________________________

Address _________________________________________

_______________________________________________

Telephone # ______________________________________

Email address _____________________________________

MUSEUM EVENT
This year we will be at the Public Museum in February to celebrate National Stitch In Public Day. The purpose of this day is to increase the visibility of our art and to let people know that it can be easily done anywhere. Put the Saturday of February 13, 2010, on your calendar now. We will plan to bring our current stitching projects as well as show some of our members' work. We are also developing a small teaching project for those who would like to learn.

OUTREACH
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Twelve new houses will be dedicated in November and December, but we only have five completed samplers. There will be about 20 new houses dedicated in 2010 with several planned for January and February. Consider making a sampler (or two) - it only takes a night or two. Leave out the family name and the last two numbers of the year. Completed samplers may be given to Margie, Marijo, or Peggy. Thank you in advance. The recipients treasure these.

HEALING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS
In Big Rapids Geri J-B. is helping in a project that works with women who are recovering from domestic violence. While they are regaining their lives, recreational activities become important to the healing process. Geri is introducing some of the women to cross stitch. We all know how it helps us in our personal lives. Many of these women have left their homes with nothing but the clothes on their backs and so cannot afford even basic supplies. To support this project, we are collecting small complete kits (we would describe as one day projects). Kits need to include fabric, all floss, directions, and needle to be of help. Give donations to Geri.

FORT SAM HUSTON

We continue to collect complete kits for families of soldiers healing in the hospital at Fort Sam Houston. Since this place is many miles from stores, only complete kits can be accepted. Marijo D. is coordinating this project for which we have received letters of appreciation.

PERSONAL EFFORTS
Several of our members have made works of needlework which they have donated to their churches. Our history of the art is so entwined with ecclesiastical work. It is beautiful to hear that our work is being seen in the community at large, and especially when it is to glorify God.

REGION NEWS
SEMINAR REVIEW
At the next regional meeting there will be a major discussion about the seminars to help better meet members' needs. Think about the following questions and give Dick H. your impressions so that he can better reflect our organization as well as make the seminars more user-friendly.
How many GLR seminars have you attended?
How many National seminars have you attended?
What is it you like best about seminar?
Do you usually find a class/teacher you would like to take?
Do you usually sign up for the Studio Time?
Do you like having all the meals together?
Would you like to have a participants' exhibit?
Do you enjoy traveling around the region for seminar?
Would you prefer GLR seminar be held in the few hotels around the region that offer us the best prices and accommodations?
What month works better in your schedule for seminar - April or May?
What expenses would you consider eliminating to reduce the costs - favors, table center pieces, meals?
Do you have comments about the registration process?
If you did not attend seminar, tell us why. Is it the cost? Is it the travel? Do you have a hard time finding a class/teacher to sign up for? Is it the teacher kit costs? Is it your employment that keeps you from attending? Is it young children or family obligations that keep you from attending?

MICHIGAN STATE LIAISON NEEDED
Would you like to get more involved on the region level of EGA? GLR has an opening for a Michigan state liaison. Our state liaisons serve on the board and keep in touch with the chapters in their states and are involved in the planning of state day among other duties. The people in these positions will be serving until next April when the new board is appointed.
If you are interested, please get in touch with Kris Kyles: kkristen858 at att dot net

OF INTEREST
SHOP HOP
This year's Shop Hop looks to be bigger and better than ever! The dates are September 11-20 (a Friday through a Sunday). Stores will have minimum uniform hours: Mon-Tu-Th-Fri 10-6, Wed-Sat 10-8 and Sun 12-4. Stitching Bits and Bobs (our advertiser) and five other stores are participating. Get a passport for $5 which will include a free chart. At each store the passport is stamped, you get a charm for the chart, and you get a 20% discount during the Shop Hop as well as discount coupon for a return visit to each store. Completed passports will be entered in the main drawings. The grand prize is a Longenberger basket filled with over a thousand dollars of needlework goodies. There will be five second prizes worth over a hundred dollars. Individual stores will also have prizes for which you do not need to attend all stores. Much fun and surprises are being planned at the stores.
The Shop Hop is planned to coincide with a major market so the stores will be stocked with many new things. This is the perfect time to do Christmas shopping.

UPCOMING EVENTS
More information on the following events can be found on http://www.ega-glr.org/:
1. Illinois State Day is September 19. Eilleen Bennett will teach "Underground Railroad Quilts".
2. Indiana State Day is October 17. The hardanger project is "Web in Autumn Garden".
3. Great Lakes Region Seminar "River of Threads" will be held in Fort Wayne Indiana April 25-29, 2010.
4. The national seminar "Bridge to Stitches" will be held October 4-9 in Pittsburgh PA. More information is on http://www.egausa.org/.

WEB SITES
The following two web sites have been recommended:
1. Needlecrafter stitch dictionary

www.needlecrafter.com/stitches.html?stat=A&end=D#228
2. Sharon B's Stitch Index

http://inaminuteago.com/stitchindex.html

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2009-08-27T05:58:00.000-07:00

PROPOSED AMENDED BYLAWS

This is a special issue of The Thread Vine with the proposed amended bylaws. A discussion will be held at our September meetings with a vote at our October meetings. The regular September-October issue of our newsletter will be posted shortly.

* * * * * *

AMENDED GGR-EGA BYLAWS

August 24, 2009

The GGR-EGA Bylaws Committee recommends the following amendments to the bylaws:

1. Chapter Bylaws: Change date 2002 to 2009

2. ARTICLE III, Section 1: Change “Any person, regardless of race, color, creed, sex, or national origin, may become…” to “Any person, regardless of race, gender, religion, national or ethnic origin, may become…” (Wording change required by National.)

3. ARTICLE IV OFFICERS, Section 1: Change third vice-president/programs AM to third vice-president/programs PM; change fourth vice-president/ programs PM to fourth vice-president/liaison AM; delete secretary AM and secretary PM, changing to secretary.

4. ARTICLE IV OFFICERS, Section 5.a: Change election of nominating committee from April Board meeting to May Board meeting.

5. ARTICLE IV OFFICERS, Section 5.e: Change third vice-president/programs AM to third vice-president/programs PM; change fourth vice-president/ programs PM to fourth vice-president/ liaison AM; delete secretary AM and secretary PM, changing to secretary. (This makes the officers’ titles consistent with the changes in Section 1.)

6. ARTICLE V MEETINGS, Section 1: Change “…fourth Friday of each month” to “January through April and September and October.” Change “…fourth Thursday of each month” to “January through April and September and October.” (This accurately reflects the chapter’s meeting schedule.)

7. ARTICLE VI BOARD OF DIRECTORS, Section 5: Change “…third Friday of January, March, May, September, and November in the morning” to “third Thursday of…in the evening,” and change “third Thursday of February, April, August and October in the evening” to “third Friday of…in the morning.” (Swap the day board meetings schedule with the evening board meetings schedule, with five meetings in the evening and four meetings in the day.)

8. ARTICLE VIII COMMITTEES, Section 1: Education was added as a standing committee. (National requires that education be a standing committee.)

9. ARTICLE VIII COMMITTEES, Section 2: Added the second sentence: The Region Representative shall be appointed chairman of education.

10. ARTICLE IX, Section 3: Add this sentence to end of paragraph: “EGA prohibits the use of membership lists other than for EGA purposes.” (This sentence is required by National.)

Margie Scoville, Chair

Vonnie Hawkins

Peg Hill

* * * * * *

GREATER GRAND RAPIDS CHAPTER

THE EMBROIDERERS' GUILD OF AMERICA, INC.

GREAT LAKES REGION

Chapter Bylaws: 2009

ARTICLE I NAME; USE OF EGA’S TRADEMARKS

The name of this organization shall be the Greater Grand Rapids Chapter, (GGRC) of The Embroiderers' Guild of America, Inc., (EGA). While this chapter is recognized as a chapter by EGA, the chapter and its members may use EGA’s registered trademarks: the name “The Embroiderers’ Guild of America, Inc.”, the stylized needle and thimble logo and design, andthe letters “EGA”, under standards approved by EGA. All use of such registered trademarks shall be discontinued upon the suspension, withdrawal of recognition, resignation or dissolution of this chapter.

ARTICLE II OBJECT

The purpose of this chapter shall be to foster the highest standard of excellence in the practice of the art of embroidery through an active program of education and study, and to preserve the heritage of the art of embroidery.

ARTICLE III MEMBERSHIP

SECTION 1. Any person, regardless of race, gender, religion, national or ethnic origin, may

become a member of this chapter upon application and payment of dues.

SECTION 2. Annual dues shall be payable upon notification by the chapter Membership Chairman.

SECTION 3. Those whose dues are not paid within the quarter of notification shall be automatically dropped from membership.

SECTION 4. Transfer and plural members shall be accepted by this chapter upon notification and payment of chapter dues and appropriate region dues, provided the member's current national dues have been paid through the primary chapter. The current status of the applicant's national and regional membership must be confirmed.

ARTICLE IV OFFICERS

SECTION 1. The officers of this chapter shall be a president, a first-vice president, a second-vice president/workshops, a third vice president/programs PM, a fourth vice-president/liaison AM, a secretary, a treasurer, and a region representative.

SECTION 2. Officers shall serve for a term of two years or until their successors are elected, and the term of office shall begin in January following November/December installation.

SECTION 3. No member shall be eligible to serve more than two terms consecutively in the same office, and no member shall hold more than one elected office at a time.

SECTION 4. If a vacancy in the office of president occurs, the first vice-president shall automatically become president; all other vacancies in office shall be filled by an election by the board of directors. Nominations to fill vacancies shall be made by the Board of Directors.

SECTION 5. Nominations and Elections:

a. A nominating committee of at least three members shall be elected by the Board of Directors at the May Board meeting.

b. It shall be the duty of the nominating committee to nominate at least one candidate for each of the offices to be filled and report at the September meeting, having obtained consent for nomination from each.

c. The election of officers shall be at the October meeting. Additional nominations from the floor may be made providing consent to serve has been obtained from the nominee prior to the meeting. If there is more than one candidate for an office, the vote shall be taken by ballot.

d. The president, first-vice president, region representative, and treasurer shall be elected in the even numbered years.

e. The second vice-president/workshops, third vice-president/programs PM, secretary, and fourth vice-president/liaison AM shall be elected in the odd numbered years.

ARTICLE V MEETINGS

SECTION 1. Regular day meetings shall be held on the fourth Friday of January through April and September and October and regular evening meetings on the fourth Thursday of January through April and September and October unless otherwise ordered by the membership or the Board of Directors.

a)The November & December meetings are combined to one date. The date of this meeting is determined annually by the board and is a joint meeting of day and evening members.

b) The May meeting is also a joint meeting of day and evening members.

SECTION 2. The annual meeting shall be held at the November/December meeting for the purpose of installation of officers, receiving annual reports from the officers and standing committees, adopting a budget and transacting any other business that may arise.

SECTION 3. Special meetings may be called by the president, by the board of directors, or by any five members, two of whom must be board members. A seven day notice stating the business of the special meeting is required, and no business other than that stated in the notice may be transacted.

SECTION 4. The quorum for all chapter meetings shall be twenty-five percent of the membership.

ARTICLE VI BOARD OF DIRECTORS

SECTION 1. The Board of Directors shall be composed of the elected officers, standing committee chairmen, special committee chairmen, and the immediate past president.

SECTION 2. The president may appoint a parliamentarian, with the approval of the executive committee. The appointment shall be announced at the first chapter meeting after election or as appropriate. The parliamentarian shall serve without a vote.

SECTION 3. Unless otherwise stated, the term for the appointed members of the board shall be concurrent with the term of the president who appointed them.

SECTION 4. The Board of Directors shall have general supervision of the affairs of the chapter between its business meetings: fix the day, hour, and place of meetings; make other recommendations to the chapter; and perform other duties specified in these bylaws. The board shall be subject to the orders of

the chapter and its acts shall in no way conflict with action taken by the general membership.

SECTION 5. Meetings of the board of directors shall be held on the third Thursday of January,

March, May, September, and November in the evening, and the third Friday of February, April, August, and October in the morning unless otherwise ordered.

SECTION 6. Special meetings of the board of directors may be called by the president or by any three members of the board, one of whom shall be an elected officer. A seven day notice stating the business of the special meeting is required, and no business other than that stated on the notice may be transacted.

SECTION 7. The quorum for all Board of Directors meetings shall be a majority of its members.

ARTICLE VII EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

SECTION 1. The executive committee shall be the elected officers of the chapter.

SECTION 2. The executive committee shall have general authority over the chapter between meetings of the board of directors and they shall also perform other duties specified in these bylaws. Any action taken by the committee shall be reported at the next board meeting.

SECTION 3. Meetings of the executive committee shall be held between meetings of the board of directors, if necessary.

SECTION 4. The quorum of the Executive Committee shall be a majority of its members.

ARTICLE VIII

COMMITTEES

SECTION 1. The standing committees of this chapter shall be advertising/publicity, membership, education, and newsletter.

SECTION 2. The president shall appoint all standing committee chairmen. The Region Representative shall be appointed chairman of education. Committee

appointments shall be approved by the executive committee. The president shall

announce said appointments at the first chapter meeting following the election or as appropriate.

SECTION 3. Special committees or additional standing committees shall be appointed by the president as the chapter or the board of directors deems necessary.

SECTION 4. The President shall be an ex officio member of all committees except the nominating committee.

ARTICLE IX

FISCAL POLICIES

SECTION 1. The fiscal year shall run from January 1 through December 31.

SECTION 2. The books and accounts of the chapter shall be kept in accordance with sound accounting practices. The treasurer shall furnish EGA with a report of the finances of the chapter by February 15 of each year, and shall send proportionate amounts of each member's dues to both EGA and the Region on a regular basis. Chapter financial records shall be audited each year, either professionally or by an Audit Committee appointed by the Chapter President.

SECTION 3. No one may profit from membership in the chapter by sales, or solicitation of sales, at EGA meetings or workshops; however, the chapter may contract with members in their professional capacities. EGA prohibits the use of membership lists other than for EGA purposes.

SECTION 4. Annual Budget

a)The chapter shall prepare and present a budget to the membership for approval no later than the meeting prior to the effective date of the budget.

b)The Board of Directors and/or the Executive Committee shall not spend any non -budgeted funds in excess of $ 300.00 during the fiscal year. The chapter may approve an expenditure in excess of this amount provided:

1) the membership is notified in writing at least thirty days prior to the meeting at which the vote is taken,

2) the written notice shall include the amount and purpose of the expenditure, and

3) the approval is by a two-thirds vote of the members present at the chapter meeting.

SECTION 5. DONATIONS. Donations of monies by the chapter may be made to any organization which is in compliance with Section 501 (c) (3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code and which the chapter, by a two-thirds vote, has designated as the recipient. Notice of such a proposed donation shall be submitted in writing to the members at least thirty days prior to the meeting at which such vote is taken.

SECTION 6. DISSOLUTION. In the event of dissolution of the chapter, all its assets and funds remaining after payment or provision for payment of all debts and liabilities of the chapter shall be distributed to one or more organizations which have been in existence for a period of two years, which are in compliance with Section 501 (c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code, and which the chapter has designated as a recipient by a two-thirds vote. Notification to the membership shall be provided in writing, at least thirty days prior to the meeting at which such a vote is to be taken.

SECTION 7. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS OR OFFICERS. See attached sheet.

ARTICLE X

PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY

The rules contained in the current edition of Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the chapter in all cases applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with the Chapter bylaws, Great Lakes Region bylaws, bylaws of The Embroiderers' Guild of America, Inc, any special rules of order the chapter may adopt, or any statutes applicable to this organization.

ARTICLE XI

AMENDMENT TO BYLAWS

SECTION 1. Any bylaws amendments effected by EGA that necessitates amendment(s) to the chapter bylaws shall be incorporated automatically in the chapter bylaws and that the membership shall be informed of such changes at the next regular meeting, and

SECTION 2. These bylaws may also be amended by a two thirds vote at any regular

meeting of the chapter provided the proposed amendment has been submitted in writing to the membership at least thirty days before the meeting and that the proposed amendment hasreceived the approval of The Embroiderers' Guild of America, Inc. prior to the meeting.

2009-04-27T10:31:00.000-07:00

MAY-AUGUST 2009

MUSINGS FROM MARIJO - A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT

We have a good thing going in our local EGA Chapter. We have great members who collectively have a lot of knowledge about stitching, both historical and practical, that they are willing to share. What we don’t have are people willing to be officers. We should elect an AM and a PM program chair and an AM and a PM secretary and a workshop chair. I couldn’t even get anyone to be on the nominating committee. Our chapter business and meetings don’t just happen. They must be planned and scheduled, and our members have to be told about those plans. We need more volunteers so that everyone’s load can be a little lighter. Please consider what you can do to alleviate this situation. I want to thank Bobbie S. for volunteering to be publicity chair.
I am looking forward to our summer stitch-ins at the Gaines Township Library. I hope to see many of you there.

CALENDAR
May
4 Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 - Call Susie
15 Board Meeting - Friday at 9:30 at Marijo's
28 Potluck - Thursday at 5:45 at Plainfield Senior Center

June
1 Sampler Group - Monday at 12:30 - Call Susie
27 Stitch-in - Saturday 9:30-5:00 at Gaines Public Library

July
25 Betsy Morgan Workshop - Saturday 9:30-5:00 at Gaines Public Library - NOTE DATE CHANGE

August
1 Stitch-in - Saturday 9:30-5:00 at Gaines Public Library
10 Newsletter info due
18 Board Meeting - Tuesday at 7:00 at Jane's
22 Stitch-in - Saturday 9:30-5:00 at Gaines Public Library

FORD MUSEUM EXHIBIT * UPDATE *

In conjunction with the Caroline Kennedy dolls exhibit at the Gerald Ford Museum, the Studio Art Quilt Association will have a display entitled "Musings" June 19 to August 30, 2009. The museum has many special events that may be of interest to our members. On June 22-26 there will be ethnic doll making workshops for children aged 9-12. Each Wednesday will be Family Days, and there will be opportunities to create colorful paper quilt squares. For more information on these events, call 616-254-0384 or www.fordlibrarymuseum.gov.

ANNUAL POTLUCK

We will hold our annual potluck dinner at the Plainfield Senior Center on Thursday, May 28. Setting up at 5:45, dinner will begin at 6:00 PM. Our program will be a slide presentation from National entitled Church Embroidery in America. You will need no stitching supplies for this, but you, of course, may want to show off your latest project so we can all see (and decide we absolutely need another good project for our stashes). This meeting is always a good time to invite a friend who is interested in embroidery and might be a potential member. A non-member may attend one meeting before joining.
Sign-up sheets for what to bring were passed around at the April day and night meetings. Otherwise, plan to bring dishes based on the following groupings determined by the first letter of your last name.

Side Dishes A-F
Salads G-K
Desserts M-R
Main Dishes S-Z

In addition to a dish to pass, we are asking people to bring a place setting and napkin for themselves and their guests. (We are joining the green movement!)

SUMMER STITCH-INS

By popular request we have again secured the Gaines Library (corner of 68th and Madison SE) to hold summer stitch-ins (NOTE DATE CHANGE) on the fourth Saturday in June and August, and on August 1. There is plenty of room for us to set out our projects and the lighting is great. The library opens at 9:30 AM, and we tend to stay until 3:00-4:00 PM. Lunch is on your own with some people bring theirs, and others exploring the many nearby restaurants. Come and share the stitching fun. See what others are working on and get new ideas for projects to do!

WORKSHOP * UPDATE *

(NOTE CHANGE OF DATE) Due to problem's with Betsy Morgan's schedule, we have changed the date for the workshop to Saturday, July 25. The workshop will be held at the Gaines Public Library. Two projects were selected. In the morning we will start promptly at 9:30 AM with the “All Year Cube”. We will break briefly for lunch from 12:30 to 1:00. Afterwards, we will start the “Quaker School Girl Etui”. You may do either one or both of these projects.
Because the lunch break is so short, there will not be time to go out so you may plan to bring your lunch or order a light luncheon with us (meats, cheese, croissants, salads, chips, desserts, drinks).
In order to plan for the workshop you must turn in the coupon (in this newsletter below) with your money to Jane W. no later than at the potluck dinner May 28. Make checks payable to GGREGA. Checks may or may not be deposited until July. Jane hopes to be able to get the kits early so that you may do some prestitching. Therefore, be sure Jane has a way to contact you during the summer.

* * * * * * * *

BETSY MORGAN WORKSHOP

All Year Square $70 _____________

Quaker School Girl Etui $110 ______________

Lunch $7 ______________

Total enclosed ______________

Name__________________________________________________________________
Money due to Jane W. by May 28 , 2009
(Checks may or may not be deposited until July.)

* * * * * * * *

BOARD NEWS

Nominating Committee: A nominating committee is being formed to recommend candidates for the following offices: Secretary, Day and Night; Programs, Day and Night; and Workshops. If you are willing to serve on this committee, contact Marijo. This committee will present a slate to the membership in September, and then the election is held in October. New officers will be installed at the Christmas party.
By-Laws Committee: In accordance with National EGA's policy, we are due to review our by-laws. Margie S. will chair this committee. Vonnie H. and Peggy H. have already volunteered to serve here. Anyone else interested in working on this should contact Margie or Marijo. The group plans to present the revisions, if any, to the membership in the fall.
New Location: * UPDATE * This fall the night group will meet at a new location for their meetings. The new location is Heather Hills at Forest Hills and Cascade Roads on the same night and at the same time. More information to follow.

ANNUAL DUES
In the past we have collected dues by the quarter in which you joined. Next year the National EGA is going to collect all national dues in the spring quarter. In order to make it simpler for our members, we have decided to do this as well. This quarter we will collect dues for those who would normally have paid in the winter or spring. If your dues were payable in either of these quarters, they are now due in the amounts shown below:
Winter $53.75
Spring $43.00
If your dues should be paid in the summer, this year only, you will pay $32.25. If you pay in the fall, your dues this year only will be $21.50. For both of these the dues will come payable in their usual quarters.
After this, everyone’s dues will again be $43 yearly but always due by May 31.

* INDIANA STATE DAY * UPDATE *

Needle Artisans of Northwest Indiana will host Indiana State Day on Saturday, October 17, 2009. The theme this year is Web in an Autumn Garden. For more information, check the blog at INStateDay2009.blogspot.com or contact them via email at INStateDay2009 at gmail dot com

SHOP HOP
Mark your calendar for September 11-20 for the annual Michigan Shop Hop. The same stores will be participating except for one that has closed. There will be the usual fun and surprises, and as our group knows so well ---Door prizes!

SCOTCH TAPE

In Eileen B’s column of usual stitching supplies, she includes scotch tape as one of those items to make sure you bring with you. We all know how wonderful tape is to help take out ripped stitches. At a recent workshop I found more uses for this basic supply. It can be used to hold a strip onto a fabric much like a baste stitch, so you can attach it. Also, tape makes a great straight edge for stitching, even for laying rows of parallel stitches or honeycombing.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
In our area about 20 to 25 homes are finished each year. We have promised to provide a sampler at the dedication of each new home. These samplers are so appreciated by the recipients.
These samplers work up quickly in just one or two evenings. We currently have only enough to meet the summer needs with many of this year’s houses being completed in the fall. Take a pattern (Be sure to use the one using just DMC 912 and 798: it’s the one Habitat prefers) and work up one or more. Peggy is the Chairperson of this committee, with Margie and Marijo serving on this committee. Completed samplers can be given to any of us.
We wish to thank Karen V’s daughter, Jennifer, who graphed the very clear chart which many of us are now using

BLACKWORK GUILD

For those who are interested in blackwork, Leslie Wilkins is creating a special group beginning June 1, 2009. For membership information and details, contact http://www.theblackworkguild.com/. In the early stage of development, this site hopes to become a wealth of information, patterns, designers, history, and museum pieces.

DIRECTORY CORRECTIONS

We have discovered a number of corrections for the recently published directory. These include changes for Eileen B., Eleanore B., Barbara C., Susie H., Peggy H., Geri J-B, Janalee K., Kelly L., Carolyn N., Margie S., Karen V., and Carol W. Please contact these people directly or the newsletter editor for the correct information.

EVENTS OF INTEREST
Trunk Show The West Michigan Lace Guild is holding its annual trunk show on Monday, May 11 at the Hampton Inn on Alpine Ave. from 4:00 to 9:00 PM. Kathy Kirchner has a store near Detroit that sells all things related to lace making Knitting and crochet with thread. There is a wonderful collection of books as well as all things needed for bobbin lace. The fibers, not to be found here, are so diverse. Anyone interested in any form of lace will find this a fascinating and informative show. You might find another new venue to pursue. The lacemakers there are very friendly and will be happy to help newcomers.
Fiber Fest The annual Fiber Fest is this August 15-16 at the Allegan Fair Grounds. There are booths on all aspects of fiber work, from shearing sheep, to carding, spinning, dyeing weaving , and knitting and much more. There are so many interesting booths including some who sell associated products that are not available elsewhere, such as, books, special yarns, etc. Earlier in the week, there are many workshops and classes. For more information, contact http://www.michiganfiberfest.com/

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2009-02-24T09:37:00.000-08:00

March-April 2009

MUSINGS FROM MARIJO - A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT

I don’t know about you, but I’m one lady who is ready for spring. I know it’s still at least a month away, (I did grow up here!) nevertheless one can hope. One nice thing about a cold snowy winter is that there’s always a good excuse to stay home and stitch. I hope all of you got a lot done.
I’m looking forward to the programs coming up these next few months. I want to do a couple of Habitat samplers and finish at least one of the big projects I have underway.
When summer finally comes, I know I’ll go to the all day stitch-ins at the Gaines Library (4th Saturday of June, July, and August). It’s always inspiring to see what everybody is working on. Please plan to join us. The room is large, well lit, and air conditioned.
The EGA Educational Catalog should be in the mail any day now. Look through it and see if there is any course you would like to try to form a group to do. Let Dick or me know. If there is enough interest, we will do that.

CALENDAR

MARCH
2 Sampler Group – Monday 12:30 PM. Call Susie.
20 Board Meeting – Friday 9:30 AM at Marijo’s house.
26 Night Meeting – Thursday 6:45 PM
27 Day Meeting – Friday 9:30 AM

APRIL
6 Sampler Group – Monday 12:30 PM. Call Susie.
10 Newsletter information due
21 Board Meeting – Tuesday 7:00 PM at Jane’s house.
23 Night Meeting – Thursday 6:45 PM
24 Day Meeting – Friday 9:30 AM

DAY PROGRAMS
MARCH
Hostess: Eleanore & Yvonna
Teacher: Dick H.
Program: Assisi Work Poinsettia
For this project you will need:
a 9” X 9” Piece of 14 count Aida white or opalescent;
1 skein Wildflowers thread, color# 045 Flame (could use DMC solid or shaded red – make sure it does not clash with the following two colors
some DMC floss #498 and 895 (a couple of yards of each should be plenty)
18 inch piece of DMC floss #783 or 3-7 small gold beads
tapestry needle size 24 or 26
embroidery hoop, if you usually use one for cross stitch
normal stitching supplies

APRIL
Hostesses: Connie W. and Starlette P.
Teacher: Claudia D.
Program: Claudia will teach techniques that incorporate "found objects" into an embroidery piece.

NIGHT PROGRAMS
MARCH
Hostess: Bobbie and Cam S.
Teacher: Nancy B.
Program: Scissor Fobs

The March program will be a set of scissor fobs to go in your sewing basket. You will need a piece of linen approximately 6” by 8” to do all 3 fobs. Each fob has a twisted cord hanger and a tassel. The tassel skirt for each fob requires 2 full skeins of floss.

APRIL
Hostesses: Geri J-B and Susan D.
Teacher: Nancy B.
Program: Tape measure cover and scissor case
This project is still in process so more information will be given at the March meeting.

MERNA’S EXHIBITION
Reviewed by Margie S.

During the month of January, eighteen needlework pieces stitched by Merna O. were on display at Park Church. Several members of the Sampler Group spent part of the morning viewing these pieces. The needlework on display included pieces on canvas and on linen, and included pieces Merna took through correspondence courses, workshops, chapter programs, and on her own. We saw colorful gardens, heavenly creatures, and the reversible Loara Standish sampler. Merna was a long-time member of our chapter and a beloved member of the Sampler Group. Having the opportunity to see these pieces again was like a delightful visit with Merna.

BOARD NEWS

Many of you have had conflicts with our annual Christmas party date so this year we will have our party on the second Thursday in December. Put December 10 on your calendar. We will again be at the Radisson on Ann St.
We are in need of a new publicity chairperson. This person contacts the advertisers for the newsletter and coordinates their ads. If you are willing to do this job, contact Marijo.
By popular demand we have again reserved the Gaines library for the fourth Saturday in June, July, and August, for our stitch-ins.

ANNUAL DUES

In the past we have collected dues by the quarter in which you joined. Next year the National EGA is going to collect all national dues in the spring quarter. In order to make it simpler for our members, we have decided to do this as well. Otherwise, you might pay local dues one quarter and national another, creating a bookkeeping nightmare. This year that will mean an adjustment of dues to bring everyone in alignment. For this year only, if you payment is due in:

Winter $53.75
Spring $43.00
You will pay the above amount this spring, with nothing due until the following spring.

If your dues should be paid in the summer, this year only, you will pay $32.25. If you pay in the fall, your dues this year only will be $21.50. For both of these the dues will come payable in their usual quarters.

After this everyone’s dues will again be $43 yearly but always due by May 31.

EGA CONSIGNMENT SHOP

EGA’s museum has a consignment shop and here are the guidelines:
EGA seeks original work by embroiderers and other fiber artists for sale by consignment in the Embroidery Museum’s retail shop in Louisville, Kentucky. Wall art, jewelry, three-dimensional pieces, wearable, and needlework accessories will all be considered. Artists practicing any embroidery techniques who have work they would like to sell are encouraged to apply.
To apply, send an email to Brad Cape bcape at egausa dot org briefly describing the type of work you do along with images of your work, a link to the site may be submitted in lieu of attached photographs. It is not necessary to send pictures of the actual pieces to be sold. Please include your price (wholesale) for each piece.
Notification of acceptance or denial will be sent within two weeks of receipt of submission.
Work should be ready for display when it arrives at the EMRC (i.e. jewelry should have appropriate stands, pieces meant to be framed should be framed, etc).
Payment for items sold will be sent monthly.
Artists will receive 70% of the retail price of any item sold.

EGA LIBRARY
A much overlooked resource is our national library. This is loaded with books on all aspects of needlework from basic skills to hard to find early volumes. If you are interested in a particular field of needlework, you are sure to find many books on the subject. Some of the volumes are no longer in print. There is a listing of books running 53 pages Perhaps this is the best such resource available. Most of these cannot found in local collections.
If you are interested in looking for a book, go to the website: http://www.egausa.org/ and click on the lending library. For the first book you pay $3 shipping and $1 for each after that (maximum of four). You may keep the book out as long as you need, and will need to pay the return shipping.

Having used this resource, I can attest to the quality of this service. When a book I requested was not available, the librarian substituted a similar themed (and valuable) book.

RECIPE
By popular request here is the recipe for the Turtle Pizza that Alice brought to the pot luck:
Four 10-inch flour tortillas
One 12 oz. package of caramel candies, unwrapped
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup toasted pecans
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Cut each tortilla into 8 wedges. Bake the tortilla wedges for 7-9 minutes, until a light golden color. (If you try to cut the baked tortilla, it will crack.) Combine the caramels and the condensed milk in a microwave safe glass dish. Microwave on high (100%) for one minute, stir, and microwave again for one minute. When the caramels are melted, stir the mixture until it is smooth. Spread it evenly on the 32 tortilla wedges. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave safe dish for one minute, stir, and microwave 10 seconds more. Stir until smooth. Spread the chocolate layer over the caramel layer. Sprinkle the pecans over the chocolate. Refrigerate until serving time. Makes 32 servings.

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2009-02-24T09:10:00.000-08:00

January-February 2009

MUSINGS FROM MARIJO - A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT

A new year. A new President. New resolutions? I usually don’t make resolutions for the first of January because 22 years of school and my birthday in September always make September seem like a new beginning. January feels like the middle of boring. However, I am planning to get three overdue gifts finished by spring. Then I want to do the new Elizabethan spot sampler in the current Sampler and Antique Needlework. My other major task for the winter is organizing my craft room. As your new president, I hope to continue the wonderful job Margie has done. I’m looking forward to being able to come to most day and night meetings and getting to know all our members better. I’m always open to suggestions, questions, and gripes; just catch me at a meeting, or email or phone me. My email address is marijodb at altelco dot net. One thing I’m thinking about is the National Stitch in Public Day. This national EGA program is set for the first Saturday in February (the seventh). If you have any ideas about where we could do this (A mall? A museum? A library?), and what we could do to advertise it, please contact me SOON.

CALENDAR
JANUARY
5 Sampler Group - Monday 12:30 PM. Call Susie.
16 Board Meeting - Friday 9:30 AM at Marijo's house.
22 Night Meeting - Thursday 6:45 PM
23 Day Meeting - Friday 9:00 AM

FEBRUARY
7 National Stitch in Public Day.
9 Sampler Group - Monday 12:30 PM. Call Susie.
17 Board Meeting - Tuesday 7:00 PM at Jane's house.
17 Newsletter information due.
26 Night Meeting - Thursday 6:45 PM
27 Day Meeting - Friday 9:00 AM
.
DAY PROGRAMS
JANUARY
Hostess: Margie S.
Teacher: Eleanore B.
Program: Eleanore will teach us about drawn thread endings. Bring your usual stitching supplies especially tapestry needles.
.
FEBRUARY
Hostesses: Marijo D. and Susie H.
Teacher: Rosie A.

Program: Rosie will teach a wool flower bag made with boiled wool. She will have a completed bag and sign-up sheet at the January meeting. Cost of the kit is $6 for the wool and beads. You will need to bring 1 Crescent Coluors heatherleigh; 1 Crescent Colours english ivy; and 1 DMC #5, color 612. Bring your usual stitching tools. Contact Rosie to sign up.

NIGHT PROGRAMS
JANUARY
Hostess: Peggy H.
Teacher: Nancy B.

Program: We will begin to work on the band for the Nantucket sewing basket. The design is approximately 3 inches wide by 32 inches long. You will need a piece of 32 count linen 5-6 inches wide by 36 inches long and most of the colors of Weeks Dye Works floss used before with the addition of 2334 Lilac.

FEBRUARY
Hostesses: Kelly L. and Alice R.
Teacher: Nancy B.
Program: We will continue to work on finishing the band begun in January. Bring your same supplies.
.
CHRISTMAS PARTY

Our Christmas party was a hit again this year. Everyone was very pleased with the new location and enjoyed the food. The room let us feel more together as a group. We have already made reservations for next year at the Radisson/Ann Street. The economy is weak, and we expected that the gifts would reflect this. We were so surprised at the quality this year. Many thought they were the best ever. Much thanks and credit needs to go to Geri J-B and Jane W. for all their efforts. Each year we marvel at the talent and variety of ornaments each makes and we leave with many ideas to try . . . the perfect result of any needlework event!

MUSEUM EVENTS

On November 15 we held two events at the Public Museum. First we were able to pass our love of handwork to a troop of girl scouts. It is a joy to realize we may have met one or more future members of our Guild. It is so important to take time to teach the next generation. Later that day we had a display of our many Christmas themed projects. This gave us an opportunity to talk with people about our passion, perhaps interest someone in a new hobby, or even gain a new member. Events like this are so important in increasing our visibility in the community. We need to thank Dick H. who did all the work to coordinate these events. We also thank Jane W. who prepared the teaching project. We also appreciate all the volunteers who came out to help make this day successful.

OUTREACH
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Jane W. has coordinated this for many years and we wish to thank her for all her work on behalf of this important charity. The job is so demanding that three people will take her place. The new Habitat committee will be Marijo D., Peggy H., and Margie Se. Although it is winter and houses are not completed now, spring will soon be here and multiple samplers will quickly be needed. Consider making a sampler as a great blizzard project. You may give completed work to any of us.

FORT SAM HOUSTON

This is a rehabilitation hospital for our service members. It is in Texas far from stores. During rehabilitation it is important to have meaningful activities to do and to have family close by (and they also need projects to do). We all know the value of needlework during such times, and thus our group strives to keep a steady supply of kits there for them. As there are no stores nearby, a kit with anything missing is useless. If you have a complete kit (directions, fabric, all flosses, and needle) that you realize you will never do, consider donating it to this worthwhile project. Marijo D. continues to collect these complete kits and sends them when a box is filled.

DATES OF INTEREST
February 7 National Stitch in Public Day April 25 Ohio State Day “Springtime Stitching in Amish County” ohiocanalega at yahoo dot com April 26-30 GLR Seminar 2009 “Bridges to Stitches” wenstan at comcast dot net 734-379-3271
.
CHRISTMAS DONATIONS
THANK YOU to all of our donors for their generosity and support!
Charles Craft, Inc. - Catalogs, mini stockings
Coats & Clark, Inc/Anchor - Patterns, thread advisor, floss assortment
Country Needleworks - Gift certificates
Country Stitches - Gift certificate
Cross 'N Patch - Patterns
Elizabeth's Designs - Patterns, fibers, charms
Homespun Elegance - Patterns, needle, post cards
J.T. Stitchery & Frame Shop - Patterns with charms and beads
Leisure Arts, Inc. - Two Encyclopedia of Needlework books
Nordic Needle, Inc. - Patterns, books, catalogs
Peacock Alley Needlepoint - Bella Lusso wool yarn assortment, project bag
Praiseworthy Stitches - Patterns
Rainbow Gallery - Thread card assortment
Redex Industries, Inc. - Udder Cream packets
Rosewood Manor - Charts, patterns with bellpull and charm
Stitching Bits and Bobs - Patterns, thread minders, kits, stitch gauge, charts
The Outlet - Assorted items
The Prairie Schooler - Patterns
Wichelt Imports, Inc. - Bead assortment
A special thanks to our newsletter advertisers (italicized) on this list!

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2009-02-23T19:22:00.000-08:00

November - December 2008

MESSAGE FROM MARGIE - A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT

A year ago at this time, I was eagerly awaiting the birth of my first granddaughter. I found myself agonizing over the design I planned to stitch for her birth sampler, feeling paralyzed over all the options. After a few false starts, I settled on a design from The Drawn Thread, liberally personalized with symbols of our family's faith and my granddaughter’s Italian heritage. Though I have yet to finish the sampler, I hope to have it completed and framed for Christmas. I was more successful, however, with the group correspondence course I signed up for this year. I completed Ilse Altherr’s Swiss Sampler and sent it in for evaluation, a first for me. In all my years as an EGA member, I had never finished the GCC projects I started. What a feeling of accomplishment. I’m inspired now to get back to my numerous other UFOs but only after I finish that birth sampler.My term as chapter president soon comes to an end, and I look back on these past two years. We’ve had the usual – though it’s hard to call it usual – flurry of chapter activity, from programs to stitch-ins to field trips. We’ve established ourselves as annual visitors and educators at the GR Public Museum; we’ve set-up our chapter newsletter online; and we’ve said good-bye to some longtime members and welcomed anew others. Through all this, you have given me your kind words and offered me your unfailing support. You have blessed my life. May yours be blessed as well.

CALENDAR
November
3 Sampler Group - 12:30. Call Susie.
15 Museum Events at the Grand Rapid’s Public MuseumGirl Scouts 9:30-12:30 & Christmas display 10:00-3:00
21 Board Meeting - 9:30 AM at Margie’s house

December
4 Christmas Party - 5:30
5 Newsletter Info due
15 Sampler Group - 12:30. Call Susie.

MUSEUM EVENTS

Set aside November 15 for two important events that we are sponsoring at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. In the morning we will be helping a Girl Scout troop earn a badge by teaching them a simple braiding project. We will work with each group for only 20 minutes so we need many hands to make this successful. Working with these youngsters is a wonderful way to pass on our love of handwork. To help here, you need to be at the museum by 9:30 and will be needed until shortly after noon.
During the midday we will have a display of our Christmas themed needlework. This is an opportunity to share our love of needlework with others in a very personal way. Those who attended last year found it to be a very satisfying time. To help here, we will set up from 10-11 AM, display from 11-2 and take down from 2-3PM. If you are unable to attend but would be willing to share your work, contact Dick.
If you help with either or both events, you will receive free parking and admission to the museum. You will also get a discount on lunch at the café. These events do much to increase our visibility in the community and perhaps help us gain new members. We extend a big thank you to Dick Hamlin for all his efforts in setting this up.

CHRISTMAS PARTY
December 4 is the date and the Ann Street Radisson Hotel is the place for our annual Christmas party fun. The schedule is as follows:
5:30 Cocktails (on your own)
6:00 Brief Business Meeting (installation of new officers and approval of the budget)
6:30 Dinner

If you choose to participate in the ornament exchange, bring your ornament in a baggie with your name in it. The committee will have a bag in which to put it and maintain anonymity and suspense.
We will again be collecting hats and mittens for underprivileged children in our area.
The committee has fun and surprises planned. Geri J-B again has done an outstanding job of requesting and getting our gifts and in this difficult economy; her awesome efforts must be noted. Other members of the committee are: Alice R., Jane W., Carol W., Marilyn B. and Peggy H.

NEW OFFICERS
At the Christmas meeting, the following officers will be installed:
President - Marijo D.
Vice President - Alice R.
Treasurer - Karen V.
Region Representative - Dick H.

NEWSLETTER ONLINE

As a result of Margie’s intensive efforts, we are now able to publish our newsletter online. We are still working out some major kinks such as how to get our advertisements included in this document so for now we will continue to send out paper copies until we have all these details worked out. We need to extend a big thank you to Margie for all her work on our behalf. To see what we have done so far go to: http://www.ega-ggr.blogspot.com/
When we are truly online, we will send you an email that the latest newsletter is ready. It is very important that you keep Betty H. informed of any changes of your current email address by using this address: egaggr at yahoo dot com

OUTREACH

If you missed the September day meeting and would be interested in smocking a gown for ”Wee Care”, contact Marva D.
We are still looking for a chairperson or people for the “Habitat for Humanity” project. If interested, contact Margie S.

NEW PUBLICATION

Eleanor B. and her granddaughter Liesl G. have published a pattern for a chenille effect potholder. This is published in Pretty Little Potholders by Lark Books, 2008.Eleanor is a founding member of our chapter of the guild and still is an active member with us. Liesl has her own line of children's clothes.

ACHIEVEMENTS

EGA Correspondence courses are very challenging learning opportunities. Some of our members undertook and completed these. Alice R. continued her exploration into hardanger taking Dale Sokalaw’s More Options in Hardanger. Members of our sampler group continued to develop their love of this genre taking Ilse Athern’s Swiss Sampler. Members who took this course are Pat P., Margie S., Carol J., and Susie H.. These members are to be commended for their dedication and learning.

SHOP HOP

Quite a group of our members went on the shop hop for the fun. They rented a van big enough to hold the entire group and partied overnight in a Hampton Inn. We still are looking for the secret for their luck. Winners from our group are: Alice R., Carol K., Marilyn B.t, and Betty H. The grand prize winner was Carol K. whose winnings included every color of Dinky Dye silks, the top of the line Ott light, a Longenberger basket, and many other beautiful items. Carol is still in shock!

REGIONAL NEWS

By 2010 all National dues wil be scheduled for May 31; local and regional dues may or may not follow that schedule.
2009 GLR Region Seminar April 26-30 The Ritz-Carlton, Dearborn, MI
2010 GLR Region Seminar April 24-29 Hilton Hotel, Fort Wayne, IN
While at the region meeting, Dick took a course called “Casaquilda’s Tin”, and he has permission to teach this here as a workshop. Watch for information later.WORKSHOPBrochures have been circulated of Betsy Morgan’s projects so that members could select what workshop would be most popular. A fall date is being projected.

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