Walworth County, Wisconsin info@glwa.net

11/2021 – November Newsletter

Public Version – GLWA members, the full newsletter is available in the members-only area


Nov 2021

A grateful heart is a joyful heart.

I can’t believe we are to the start of the holiday season, and we’re still trying to not eat the Halloween candy. Nonetheless the leaves are falling, temps are changing, and our thoughts start to focus on this month of Thanksgiving.  Grateful, thankful and appreciative are words that I will use to describe how I feel about the women in this group. Our October meeting, “The Blue Jean Ball” gave us a chance to meet some past presidents, former and hopefully future members, share some stories and shake a little bootie on the dance floor. An excellent event planned by Internal Director Melissa Kepler, Member Director Laurie Hallmark, Secretary Deb Otlewis, and past President Kathy Papcke. Committees can be fun and in this newsletter you’ll find more ways to get in on that fun.

GLWA needs your help. There are a couple upcoming opportunities that give us a chance to spotlight ourselves.  Parade of Trees at the Museum, Salvation Army bell ringing at Walmart, and Holiday Helping Hands are just a few. This month we are asking you to help out Twin Oaks Shelter for the Homeless with hygiene and cleaning supplies. They have gotten some much needed press recently, but unfortunately the need is always greater than what is available.  You all rocked the donations to Lakeland Animal Shelter last month and they are beyond grateful.  Many of our members are involved with other organizations that I am sure are looking for volunteers and/or support. If any of you know of needs or ways that GLWA or members can get involved, please let us know. Deb does an excellent job of showcasing events and causes every month in this newsletter, so take full advantage of that.

Looking forward to 2022 guess what? More opportunities for you! It is never too early to start thinking about a board position, Children’s Art Show in May, Scholarship, and Ladies Day Luncheon is looking for an overall chair (we have a consultant, date and place already) and of course Women’s Weekend volunteers.

Yes, these things take time and energy to complete and most of the time we all feel short of both. This is where those heartfelt words of thanks, gratitude and appreciation matter. To the past Presidents of GLWA, those who have served on the Board throughout our history, members who have given, supported, volunteered, shared our organization and mission, “Thank You.”  The Geneva Lake Women’s Association would not be the strong solid organization we are without your time and efforts. To those incredibly talented women who currently serve on the board:  Laurie Hallmark, Georgia Ichen, Melissa Kepler, Deb Otlewis, Missy Sell and Treasure Sperry, your time, talents and dedication to GLWA are driving us into the future.  Check out our website, Facebook and Instagram to see what I mean. My gratitude and appreciation run deep. 

As we look forward to this time of reflection, family, friends gathering together, may you all be blessed.

Always,

Cathy

GLWA General Meeting Calendar 2021

November 1 Monday GLWA General Meeting5:00pm Social Hour, 6:15 Meeting

A Zoom option is avail (see Evite)  OrganiCuts, 511 Broad St, LG

Hosted by Elizabeth Krause.  We will have an extended social hour (5pm start) to hear from reps from Scout and Cellar.  There will also be an informational table, options to purchase wine and lots of sampling.  Light snacks will also be provided.  The general meeting (6:15pm) will have updates from our committees managing various GLWA fundraising efforts as well as insights into our current recipient’s needs.  We will focus on “Women’s Weekend 2022” in large part as the wheels are rolling and venues & sponsors need to be secured.

*** DONATIONS REQUESTED –  TWIN OAKS***       

This month’s meeting would ask you to bring along any type of much needed supplies from Twin Oak’s wish list, such as:  cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, paper towels, and toilet paper as a donation.  Not mandatory, but every little bit helps Twin Oaks, a GLWA recipient, provides shelter for the homeless.  Open 365 days a year, they offer 12 residential units where families can stay up to 60 days and also provides professional case management resolving crisis and helps in finding stable housing.

(You can add your preferred donation in the meeting Evite sent out on 10/25.) Donation guidelines can be found on the Twin Oaks website:

https://community-action.org/housing/twin-oaks-shelter-for-homeless/

***UNWRAPPED TOYS REQUESTED – HOLIDAY HELPING HANDS***

If you have any toys (all ages & unwrapped) you can donate, please bring to either Nov 1or Dec 6 meeting.  Kathy Papcke will deliver those to the county. General Meeting Calendard Continued…

December 6 Monday “Holiday Party”  Farmers Inn, 15 Wisconsin St, Darien.  Theme: TBD

Hosts:  Laurie Hallmark, Melissa Kepler, Deb Otlewis      

January 10 Monday TBD   Hosts:  Nancy Castelein, Judie Piscipo

February 7 Monday TBD   Hosts:  Deb Norris, Joanne Cotter, Diane K Nopenz

Let’s make NOVEMBER “Join a Committee Month!”

While we are always working on numerous projects, currently our ‘big one’ is Women’s Weekend 2022, May 13-15.  We have secured the beautiful Riviera for the kick-off party Fri night, 5/13, with a “Roaring 20’s” theme.  The agenda will be presented at the Nov 1st meeting.   There are many moving parts to this event.  We need volunteers for multiple committees, and can attest to it that you will have as much fun participating as the guests!

Chair:  Missy; Co-chairs:   Elizabeth, Treasure

Sub-Committees thus far:

Event Planning/Sponsorship Finders – Kathy P, Liz K, Anne G

Advertising/Marketing – Treasure S, Anne G

Social Media/Graphics – Treasure S

Swag Bags – Deb N, Treasure S

Organize Volunteers

Silent Auction/Raffles

Decorating

Clean-up

Google Drive for Committees is under construction.  Treasure & Melissa have created a spreadsheet for Women’s Weekend where the committee can view, add, update, etc., to our current events/committees.  Please contact Treasure Sperry for access.  Treasure S Email

A new committee is underway updating GLWA’s Bylaws.  Chair:  Melissa; Committee members:  Kathy Bartelli, Jenell Mroz, Deb Otlewis & Laura Shimkus 

As a reminder, a copy of the Financial Statements for GLWA is available for review at each general membership meeting.  A copy is also attached to the minutes/notes from each meeting.  If there are ever any questions regarding these reports, feel free to contact me at Treasurer Email

We are still accepting Membership Dues for the 2021-22 year.  You may bring your check ($50.00) made payable to GLWA to PO Box 671, Lake Geneva, WI  53147 or bring it to the general membership meeting.

How Did It Go?  Check GLWA.net for amazing pics!

October “Blue Jean Ball” Past Presidents & General Meeting 2021

OCTOBER MEETING:  Chair:  Melissa Kepler, Committee:  Laurie Hallmark, Deb Otlewis, Kathy Papcke

Great venue!  Melissa found a friend in Hawk’s View GC, and they accommodated us beyond our expectations.  The room was perfectly sized as we migrated to the dance floor with tunes from our resident DJ, Li’l Laurie Hallmark and found a few members have ‘dance fever!’  Who knew!  I won’t name names, but Pat Herman, Kathy Bartelli, Val Donnan & Laura Shimkus can ‘cut a rug,’ while Georgia FINALLY learned a line dance!  Sort of glad a microphone wasn’t available—just say’n!  Maybe save those hidden talents for our Holiday Soiree?

That’s a wrap!

GLWA Events on the Horizon & Standing Committees:

Holiday Helping Hands    Chair: Kathy Papcke; Committee:  Georgia Ichen, Elizabeth Krause, Denise Schnurr.  Purpose:  GLWA adopts 2 families to provide Christmas gifts & food through Walworth Co Social Services, i.e., toys, clothes, gift cards for ages 0-14 yrs.  Items will be delivered by Dec 13.   If you have any toys (all ages & unwrapped) to donate, please bring to either the Nov 1 or Dec 6 meeting.  Kathy Papcke will deliver those to the county.  Let’s to shopping!

Lakeland Animal Shelter    Committee:  Deb Otlewis, Joanne Cotter

Kristen & Sarah were elated with the amount of donations from our Blue Jean Ball.  They mentioned seeing our posts on FB and were very grateful for the shout-out.  Kristen took time out to give Treasure & I a two-hour tour and history of their new facility.  It’s beautiful, clean and well organized!   Sarah is receptive and welcoming of help with dog-walking so we will get a schedule together.  Kristen was over-joyed as we floated ideas by her to help with their media and possibly a coloring book (Treasure) for purchase.  Below, Treasure is protective of “Jimmy” who could be our first celebrity ‘Insta’ pup.  If you are in the area, you are always welcome to say ‘hello’ and or bring donations to the shelter (Hours: M-F 12pm to 5pm, Sat 11am to 4pm), or ship to:  3615 Hwy 67, Delavan, WI  53115

In lieu of not being able to have their Grateful Gathering this November, they are asking businesses to put a jar at the checkout for shelter supporters to “Round Up for Lakeland.”   Please encourage your favorite shops to participate.  Contact fundraising@lakelandanimalshelter.org  and a volunteer will drop off a container to collect the change.

Ladies Day Luncheon, LDL –  Mark your calendars!!! Date/venue is set for next year, Sept 19, 2022 at Geneva National.  Set-up on Sep 18.

Parade of Trees at Geneva National Museum    Chair:  Colleen Dunford; Committee:  Laurie Hallmark, Deb Otlewis, Cathy Popick, Cathy Stoodley

Ideas are needed for GLWA’s “Christmas tree” at the museum.  We need volunteers to help set up on either Tue Nov 16, or Wed Nov 17.   Please consider volunteering for this festive holiday showing at the museum.  After GLWA’s success at LDL, the pressure is on to produce a stunning tree!  We will NOT be out-decorated!!  Long over-due…a new outdoor 2-sided electronic information sign is planned for Geneva Lake Museum to face Mill St & Main St. 

Twin Oaks Shelter, Darien    Committee:  Julia Hillman

A supply drive is our focus for the Nov 1 general meeting (see above).  Current needs:  Cleaning supplies, toiletries.  Purpose:  12 room, 24/7 homeless shelter for families and individuals.  Program helps people move toward economic independence.  A new shelter is in the works.  “Twin Oaks Shelter for the Homeless needs our help.  The shelter only fully opened up donations again on July 8 after a pause to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.  Cleaning products, hygiene items and new pillows & bedding remain at the top of their wish list.  High priority items include toilet paper, laundry detergent and disinfectant wipes.

Walworth Co Food Pantry & Diaper Bank    Committee:  Penny Hallett

Current needs:  Staple items for Dry & Can Bags (see below) & volunteers for 1-2 hour shifts. If you visit, ask to see their hydroponic garden.  Amazing!                           

Women’s Weekend 2022 –  May 13 – 15  Chair:  Missy Sell;  Co-chairs:  Liz Krause, Treasure Sperry.  Committee:   Mary Blohm, Anne Guye-Kordus, Deb Norris, Diane K Nopenz, Deb Otlewis,  Kathy Papcke, Marie Williams

GLWA is under way planning for an exciting 2022 Women’s Weekend with many new activities scheduled as well as past favorites.  (Agenda to be presented at the Nov 1st general meeting–see above for more information.)

Upcoming Social Events in our Community

For Live Music in the Area, go to:  https://www.lakegenevasnews.net/entertainment

New in Delevan!  Dog rescue & training.  They take dogs in, train & rehome as well as specialize in training with your pet. https://www.packlifedogtraining.com/

New Women’s Leadership Center is planned for the lakefront in Williams Bay.

Ice Castles is back!  Geneva National   They are looking to fill positions: www.icecastles.com/work

Oct 23 Whitewater’s 1st Pride Rally  Cultural Arts Center Noon-1:30pm  Celebrates Whitewater’s LGBTQ+ community and to help people find safety in their identity within a small community.  Check out FB at “Whitewater Pride Rally.”

Nov 10 “West End” Holiday Open Houses  Starts at 3pm.  Visit all 7 shops, Fontana Home included.  Refreshments, free gift w/purchase and a chance to win a FH gift box.

Nov 12 Alive to Thrive 2021 Benefit & Silent Auction, Inspiration Ministries   

Lake Lawn Resort, Delavan 5:30 Start   Keynote speaker:   John Nugent, Pres of Joni & FriendsLearn about what is on the horizon for Inspiration Ministries and Inspired.

Nov 13 Holiday Affair Craft Show   Walworth Co Fair’s Barnyard Adventure Learning Area.

9am-4pm   $5/per   Various locations featuring over 300 crafters & artisans.

Walworth Co Fairgrounds Activity Center, Monte Carlo Rm, Elkhorn HS, Elkhorn Middle

Sch, Jackson Sch, Westside Sch, Options Virtual Sch (f/n/a St. Patrick’s)

Nov 20 Wild Spirits Masquerade 2021  Fellow Mortals Wild Life Hosp Fundraiser, Big Foot Country Club  4:30pm – 10pm  $125/per  Dinner & auction (online auction starts Nov 15).  Author & artist Gretchen N Newberry will be on hand with copies of her new book, “A Feathered Reptile.”  *Face masks required.  Buffet, apps, dessert, valet parking.

Seating limited to 120.  Order online by Nov 15.  Fellow Mortals are funded entirely by donations—they do not receive any govt funding.

Nov 27 Kris Kringle Outdoor Market  Adcock Farm  215 S Lake Ave, Twin Lakes   9am

Dec 3-4 Christmas Market at The Barn  Terra Yard Creations, 202 E Grant St, Elkhorn

Fri, 4-8pm; Sat, 10am-6pm

Dec 9 Luxe Geneva “Sip & Sparkle”   The Ridge  W4240 Hwy 50, Lake Geneva  5pm – 8pm $50/per   Join for an evening of “exclusive holiday shopping, live entertainment, cocktails apps & raffles.  Each guest receives a Luxe Swag Bag filled with goodies.  Luxe Geneva is new to the area and offers concierge services and estate mgmt kicking off their launch party on Aug 27 at The Bottle Shop.  “Make a wish, and we’ll make it happen.”  https://linktr.ee/luxegeneva  

From our Vice Pres, Website Aficianado & Merchandiser

If you see any GLWA posts on Facebook or Instagram, please like, comment or share them. When you do this, the algorithm will put GLWA to the forefront for more people to find. We have already made a number of new contacts and members thanks to social media.

We support other organizations and promote community happenings via social media, website, and the newsletter. Please reach out to us with our emails, in person, on social media or email socialmedia@glwa.net

We have great news!  The Geneva Lake Women’s Association has been approved for Google’s Non-Profit programs, one of which will allow us to run internet ads to our website free of charge.

To remain in the program, we must keep the website up to date, secure, and updated with new content. We’ve been updating it, so please go to GLWA.net to check it out and keep sending us community activities that you’re aware of.

Keep in mind, if you have any ideas or needs for merchandise, please reach out

Treasure Sperry

Comments, Notes & Reviews….

From the LDL Chair, Maureen Berkowitz, “Thanks to all of the ladies of GLWA.  Everyone pitched in to make Ladies Day Luncheon a big success.  A very special thank you to my partner, Penny Hallett, and the most fabulous committee, Missy Sell, Georgia Ichen, Cathy Stoodley, Kathy Papcke, Mary Blohm, Sue Connors, and the fabulous Treasure Sperry and Kathy Bartelli.”

Proud parent moment from Liz Krause, “My daughter, Chloe Chappell (15), a sophomore at Badger High School, lettered in girl’s varsity golf again last night.  She was the first freshman to be on the varsity golf team in 10 years and lettered last year.”  We love these stories!!  Congrats & good luck on the course Chloe!

In Memoriam, we remember Amy Kelly’s father, Donald H Reconnu, who passed away on Oct 17 2021. Don was a Sgt in the US Army (1965-67) and served in Vietnam.  Don received the Veteran of the Year Award in 2013.  He was also a founding member of the Vietnam Veterans of America South Dakota chapter 1054.  Visitation will be held at Beyers Funeral Home in Lady Lake, FL, on Sat, Oct 30 at 10:30am.  Donations in Don’s memory may be sent to the Vietnam Veterans of America via check or money order to:  Northeast South Dakota VVA, Chapter 1054, PO Box 1062, Watertown SD  57201.  Amy, your GLWA members and friends send our love, prayers & sympathy.

MEMBERS on the MOVE…

Want to get out post-Covid and meet locals?  GLWA member, Cathy Gelpi Popick, is the founding member of “Lake Geneva Social Club” which meets monthly (it’s always a surprise!) at local venues. 

It is a great way to try out new places.  Just ‘Like” her Facebook page and you will receive updates.  Member have reached triple-digits over 900!!!  As a frequent patron myself, Cathy typically gets a crowd of 50-75 so it’s cozy & easy to meet a neighbor.  Next get together:  Wed, 11/9, 5-8pm, Maxwell Mansion, 421 Baker Street, Lake Geneva.

Congrats Lake Geneva!  Conde’ Nast Traveler! rated Lake Geneva as one of the “Top 26 Most Beautiful Towns in America.”

https://bit.ly/3mkHTqv or visit www.VisitWalworthCounty.com

Have a great rest of your fall!