Minutes of Annual Meeting – Wednesday, June 11, 2008
“It Rains Fishes” Restaurant

Moderator:  Marilyn Mullane
Recorder:  Vicky Coccoluto
Readers:  Bonnie Alpert, First; Maggie Russell, Second

The star speakers of the 2008 Annual Meeting of the League of Women Voters of Winchester represented the two ends of the age spectrum, proving once again that “age is just another number!”

Lisa Kalner Williams introduced Doris “Granny D” Haddock, who gained fame for her trek across the country beginning in 1999 on behalf of campaign finance reform.  She was 89 when the trip begin, and 91 at the finish—and she is still passionate about the importance of citizen involvement in government today at age 98!  As the keynote speaker, she reviewed the present-day issues that concern her most:  erosion of Constitutional protections, global warming, lack of openness in government, the need for more independent media, and of course—campaign finance reform.  Along the way, she praised the League for its work, and her enthusiasm for her subject was indeed inspiring for the 40+ members in the audience.

Also impressive was the award-winning essay written and read by Ms.Priyanha Nadanasabesan, a Winchester student, whose parents were also in attendance, on the importance of every citizen becoming well informed on issues before voting. 

Marcia Wood, who also served as Parliamentarian, presented a Certificate of Recognition and Lifetime Membership award to 50-year member Pat Wells, to a round of applause.

Marilyn Mullane, Moderator for the evening’s program, thanked the retiring Steering Committee members,  Lauren Costello, Jean Herbert, Sarah Regan, Frances Shawcross and Lisa Kalner Williams for their many contributions during their terms.  She then announced the newly-nominated members to the Steering Committee:  Jo-Ann Michalak, Susan Lewis, and Judie Muggia.

The formal business meeting got underway at approximately 8:15.
The minutes of the prior year were approved as written and published in the Bulletin.

The Treasurer’s report was presented by Elizabeth Ghoniem.  Discussion soon focused on the Bulletin and its probable change in format in the coming year, due to the retirement of our talented and hard-working layout specialist, Madeleine Kaiser, from the Bulletin Committee.  Finding someone with her skills has so far proved elusive, which may require the Bulletin to adapt to a simpler format, possibly one that is all-electronic rather than professionally printed.  Elizabeth reported that the budget is likely to end up balanced for the current year, despite the uncertainty surrounding the Bulletin’s expenses and advertising revenues.  Looking ahead to next year, there will be an increase in the travel expense budget, which has been set rather low, and the projection for per-member dues reflects an approximate 10-member reduction.  The Treasurer’s report will be placed on file.

Marilyn reviewed the numerous League activities of the past year which were documented in the Steering Committee report, attached.  Highlights included a provocative panel program on the shortcomings of electronic voting machines in the fall, the annual “Moveable Feast” for Town Employees in December; a well-attended consensus meeting on the topic of Immigration policy (a national issue) in January; another consensus meeting on the interrelationship of state and municipality flows of funds (outgrowth of a LWVMA project) in February; a stimulating book discussion on “Iran Awakening” in April; productive voter registration activities at both Winchester High School and Woburn High School in this 2008 election year, and finally, the annual Town Day booth in June.

The new members nominated for the Steering Committee were elected unanimously.
Elizabeth Ghoniem was re-nominated as Treasurer; this was seconded and passed by unanimous vote.

Jean Herbert urged attendees to fill out a survey of their interests, to be placed in a box provided.  She also announced that membership forms are available, and a “special rate” is available for those who wish to join mid-year!

Door prizes were given out to winning ticket-holders, which included, Pat Wells, Sarah Brooks, and Peggy Roll

The business meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m., providing additional opportunity for socializing afterward.

Respectfully submitted,
Vicky Coccoluto