Communique`
Volume 21, Issue 3
March 2026
Kelly Imbody GFWC-HB President kevnkell@hotmail.com
Judy Brock 2018-2019
2024-2026
Peggy Schiavone 2010-2012
Past Presidents
BJ Stephens 2010 & 2019-2020
Donna Geise 2016-2018
The
Judi Stankowich Past Pennsylvania President 2006-2008
GFWC of Holden Beach
Holly Coleman 2020-2022
Julie Wolfe 2012-2014
Volume 21, Issue 5
Pam Hutchison 2022-2024
Ann Landis 2007-2008 Past NC President (2018-2020)
Karen Throckmorton 2014-2016 NC President 2024-2026
May 2026
Member of the General Federation of Women's Clubs
Helen Stead 2009
Jan Allen Past Wisconsin President 2014-2016
Well, I did it!
Text
Message from Kelly
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Wow! The past 2 years have flown by. I have to admit that in September of 2024 I was feeling very overwhelmed. Questions kept running through my head. “Could I do it?” “What if I really screw things up?” “I’ve never done anything like this before, what was I thinking?” Well, I did it! I don’t think I screwed things up too badly, at least I hope not!! My most sincere thanks to you all for your support for the past 2 years. I had a FANTASTIC Executive Board. Each one of them was there every step of the way. Talk about someone having your back! I used “speed dial” a lot! But here we are at the end of another 2 years and we all survived. I would encourage you to consider stepping up. You certainly don’t have to volunteer to be an officer, (but you could!) but what about serving on a committee? It’s a great way to see how the club works, where our priorities are and where we want to go. The Bylaws Committee is a great way to get a handle on GFWC-HB and its “fit” within GHWC-NC and GFWC. It’s just a couple of Zoom meetings and voila! You’re done! The Budget Committee is a real eye opener and only takes a couple of hours and the Financial Review Committee is also very interesting and again, only takes a couple of hours. Chair a Gala committee! There are 18 years of experience for you to call on!! The point is to think outside the box. Everyone on the committee has a voice, but also a voice for the entire membership. As a CSP/Advancement Plan/Special Project Chair or Co-chair, you’re not alone either. You have a committee to provide input and ideas. That is why there are committees! No one does anything alone. So, continue to show up, and step up. Our membership has grown exponentially these last couple of years. Why? Because you’ve all done just that…shown up and stepped up. Let’s keep that pattern going for Debbie. If she’s anything like me, she’s probably feeling a bit overwhelmed right now. It’s a big responsibility. But she has the entire membership behind her and again, a FANTASTIC Executive Board to rely on! I’ve heard she’s got some great ideas for us to consider. We have a super membership. We will all show up and step up for Debbie. These next 2 years are looking REALLY good!
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EDITOR'S NOTE: Did you know that you could catch up with any past Communiques by going to our website: gwfchb.org and click on the about us tab and look under Communique. You will find the current month's edition and a link to every edition for the past year.
Message from our President Kelly - page 2
Calendar - page 4
In the Beginning - page 5
Past Presidents Comments - page 6-7
Message from 1st VP Kandace - page 8
Message from Membership VP Amanda - page 9
May Meeting - page 10
April Meeting - page 11
Club Information - page 12
Scholarship Winners - page 13
Charity Gala - page 14
Arts & Culture CSP - pages 15
Education & Libraries CSP - page 16
Civic Engagement & Outreach CSP - page 17
Environment CSP - page 18
Message from GFWC-NC President Karen - page 19
GFWC-NC Convention Highlights - page 20-23
ESO - page 24
Legislative Action Center - page 25
GFWC Convention - page 26
Legacy Ladies to Leadership - page 27
Scottsdale, AR
July 25
Holden Beach Chapel 6:15 pm refreshments & Club Chatter 6:45 pm meeting hosted by Past President's Committee and Installation of Officers
Calabash NC
Details to come
Rock Painting for our Time Capsule Tuesday - 4 pm Rosemarie Rovito's House 602 Ocean Blvd W
Fire Department Open House
Aug 16
May 19
GFWC-HB Fundraiser
Rocktail Party BYOB
May 8
Club Meeting
June 26-29
Mark Your Calendar!
Selling 50/50 at Holden Beach Concert We need you to help sell tickets!
Club Summer Social
Tri-Beach VFD Station 1 854 Sabbath Hone Road Friday, 4-7 pm
May 12
GFWC-NC Summer meeting
GFWC Convention
Calendar of Events
July 5
In the Beginning . . .
Ann Landis Our First President 2007-2008
Our Club History
GFWC of Holden Beach would not exist without our founder, Ann Landis, whose gift for inspiring people to say YES sparked everything. Ann’s Federation journey began in 1974 as a Junior in North Wilkesboro. When she retired at 50 and moved to Holden Beach, it was no surprise that she began imagining a new club during her long walks on the shore. With encouragement from her mentor and longtime friend, former GFWC-NC and GFWC Southeastern Region President Julene McPhaul, Ann set her vision in motion. In 2006, Ann held three informational meetings. The first, sponsored by a local business, drew 45 women to a deli in October. One new friend jokingly said she felt hornswoggled after learning Ann’s “new idea” came with 33 years of Federation experience. The second meeting, held at the Holden Beach Chapel, featured popcorn, a movie, and the theme “We’re popping with excitement you are here!” The third—a December covered dish dinner—attracted more than 50 women, who brought membership applications, dues, and canned goods for the local food bank. In January 2007, GFWC of Holden Beach officially organized. GFWC‑NC President‑elect Beverly Lassiter installed officers and inducted 55 new members, many brand‑new to GFWC. Early successes followed: 13 District winners in the first Local Arts Festival and a strong showing at the State Arts Festival. The club’s first major project, now known as our Charity Gala, raised over $5,700 for domestic violence prevention. Today, in its 18th year, it continues to thrive, with $30,000 donated last year alone. Another standout project equipped all Brunswick County EMS vehicles with pediatric bags, earning national GFWC recognition. In May 2007, the club received its charter. Nineteen years later, members remain inspired, committed, and still saying yes—to Ann, to GFWC, and to service.
My name is Betty Jo, better known as “B.J.” Stephens. I joined GFWC of Holden Beach in 2007 after Ann Landis encouraged me—thankfully, I didn’t say no. The club brought friendships, purpose, and meaningful ways to serve our community. I later served twice as President, supported by a strong Board. My second term came during a difficult period when we lost Judy Brock, but our members pulled together with strength and compassion. I’m grateful for the opportunities GFWC-HB has given me, the memories I cherish, and the new ones still ahead.
The 2007 GFWC Convention, held in Philadelphia, featured an award-winning Mummers String Band who had everyone up and dancing in the aisles. These bands, with their elaborate costumes, fantastic music, a special strut, and complex performance routines, parade annually since 1901 on New Year's Day.
Hear what they say....
to this question... What is your most memorable event or happening during your term?
One of my most memorable events was to go with Vice President Bennie Hall to the GFWC-NC State Convention to receive our CLUB CHARTER from GFWC-NC President Sandy Jahn in 2007. Another one was GFWC-NC President-Elect Bev Lassiter coming to Holden Beach and installing 76 new members in GFWC of Holden Beach! Memorable times!
An Landis 2007-2008 Past NC President (2018-2020)
Past President's Comments
Continued on the next page...
During my presidency, I focused on keeping our meetings timely, always ending by eight o’clock because members had expressed that concern. I introduced tiara rings to celebrate different women at each meeting, a fun idea that eventually inspired today’s “Gem of the Month.” Julie Wolfe and I co‑chaired the Gala in its early days, long before it became the grand event it is now. My two years were simple and steady, and though my memories are a bit vague, I remain grateful for the friendships and the privilege of serving.
My final convention was the first weekend in May at a lovely inn on Sturgeon Bay. The first night the owner cooked paella in pans on the patio. It was fabulous. The second day of convention Ms Suellen Brazil was our GFWC guest and it snow showered in the afternoon!
GFWC–Holden Beach launched its first fashion show, now an annual fundraiser featuring fashions from Clarice Holden and even Miss South Africa. Proceeds supportedHope Harbor and Lower Cape Fear Hospice. Members decorated flip‑flops, filled laundry baskets, and created care packets for the homeless. They read Dr. Seuss at Supply Elementary, hosted Turtle Talk for 700 students, and planted sea grasses. “Color Me Beautiful” brightened nursing‑home residents’ days. Members also served as Coastal Living Idea Home hostesses and walked over 15 million steps with AARP.
The 2026 Gala will stand out as the most memorable as it is the highest grossing GALA since its inception. This was possible because of a stellar Chairman in Julie Lopez and enthusiastic and efficient committee Chairs and a membership that came to the table ready to work! Another most memorable is just the past 2 years. It was an honor to serve as your President. I had a wonderful Executive Board that was there every step of the way and you all made it easy (?!?) and fun. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Kelly Imbody 2024-2026
Deceased — April 2019
One of my fondest GFWC memories happened when Ann Landis persuaded me to attend Shot @ Life training with her in Washington, D.C. Early one morning, we had just enough time to visit GFWC Headquarters. After confirming they could receive us, we walked over and were warmly welcomed by the receptionist, who offered a full tour. When she opened the door to the International President’s quarters—assuring us no one was there—we found a startled, not‑quite‑dressed President Babs Condon. She burst into laughter, dressed quickly, and posed for photos. Over a decade later, Babs and I laughed about it again at the SER dinner in Wilmington.
As President-elect, I had the responsibility of informing our members about the tragic murder of our President, Judy Brock. Keeping everyone informed about the ongoing search and providing support to our grieving sisterhood during this difficult time were experiences I will remember forever. During my tenure as President during the COVID-19 pandemic, we adapted to the changing circumstances by implementing virtual club meetings. We also identified projects that could be completed with minimal in-person interaction. To ensure that we continued to support Hope Harbor Home and Providence Home, we swiftly transitioned the Gala from an in-person event to an online reverse raffle.
It was an honor to serve as president, following my previous roles as Gala Chairman, Treasurer, 1st VP, and GFWC-NC LEADS Representative. The 2014–2016 administration was a period of meaningful change. We carefully weighed the pros and cons of aligning our fiscal year with GFWC and GFWC -NC and ultimately made the decision to move forward. That choice has continued to serve our club well over the years.
Moving the 2024 Gala to the St. James Community Center, changing the caterer to Middle of the Isle Catering Company, including my mother and mother-in-law teacups in the beautiful centerpieces, and having one of the most successful Galas to date!
My most memorable moment as President came in August 2017. After purchasing the African Safari at our 2016 Gala, we traveled to South Africa to the Kwa Madwala Private Game Reserve. We had already seen four of the Big Five—leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo—when our guide, Boy Boy, promised we would see a lion. He stopped the jeep, called “Simba, Simba, Simba,” and a lion emerged. I leaned out for a closer look, and Boy Boy shouted, “Donna, don’t lean out! If you get eaten, I’ll lose my job!”
For nineteen years, a legacy grew, Beneath determined hands and hearts so true. From Ann Landis, whose vision sparked the flame, To Helen Stead, BJ Stephens, and Peggy Schiavone, each name Echoes wisdom, kindness, and steady grace. Julie Wolfe, Karen Throckmorton, and Donna Geise carried the torch, Judy Brock sadly left us, yet the club marched forth, Holly Coleman and Pam Hutchison led us into a new decade, With fresh vision and vibrant energy that shone in every stride they made. Through seasons of change and without pause They all nurtured our club and kept blooming for a cause. Nineteen years strong, their legacy remains, Guiding us forward with hope that sustains. As a tribute to these past presidents, we are proud to continue the reach To our community and beyond as GFWC of Holden Beach. Kandace April 2026
Message from Kandace
An Ode to the Women Who Guided Our Club
Message from Amanda
Celebrating May, Membership and Margaritas!!!
GFWC of Holden Beach has had a wonderful year!!! Tons of projects, new members, lots of awards at the GFWC-NC State Convention and most importantly a HUGE amount of volunteer hours worked and over $40,000 raised to give back to our community!! We need to CELEBRATE OUR HARD WORK AND EACH OTHER!!! Let’s get together for margaritas, dinner or whatever combination works for YOU. THURSDAY MAY 21 5:00 pm MINI JALAPENO (Holden Beach Causeway) Bring yourself! Bring a friend! Bring your FABULOUS volunteer spirit to celebrate a job well done!! RSVP to arollins1260@gmail.com just So I can let them know an approximate number to expect!
May Meeting
May 19, 2026
Installation of the new officers President — Debbie Yorio President-elect — Kandace Hill First VP — Amanda Rollins Membership VP — Nancy McDevitt Secretary — Sandy McInturf Treasurer — Delores Lail Induction of new members Pam Billings Ann Masi Rhonda Little Clubwoman anniversaries will be awarded Club Awards Convention awards and wrap up The 2026-2028 budget will be presented and voted on Final Financial report for the Gala
May Meeting will Feature:
Don't Miss this Important Meeting!
Thanks goes to Karen for explaining the purpose of our reporting and keeping track of our hours.
April Meeting
Thanks goes to Kelly for making the meeting fun with the "Would you rather" Game.
Thank you to the Executive Board for a successful 2 years and to Kelly for keeping it lively!
We had a great Attendance at the April Meeting
Sorry You Missed it!
Congratulation to our new Executive Board: Debbie Yorio — President Kandace Hill — President-elect Amanda Rollins — 1st VP Nancy McDevitt— Membership VP Sandy McInturf — Secretary Dee Lail — Treasurer
There are women who serve, and there are women who shine. Every once in a while you find one who does both at the same time. With a pen full of beauty and a heart full of grace, she weaves meaning and magic into every space. With a heart for learning and a passion to lead, she pours into others— planting wisdom like seeds. Through Education and Libraries, she’s helped light the way, reminding us knowledge can change lives every day. With quarters collected, each small coin a part, honoring the courage of women before us, with their spirit in her heart. And when called to lead on a much bigger stage, she stepped in with purpose to serve and engage. With stars, stripes, and spirit, with patriotism as her guide, she brought heart to the Gala runway with creativity and pride. From projects to people, from ideas to art, she gives of her time— but even more so of her heart. There’s so much more about her that I could put in this rhyme, but we’d be here all evening— and we haven’t the time. A writer, a leader, a light we all see Chosen to represent us our Clubwoman of the Year nominee, With grace in her presence and strength in her will, Our Gem of the Month— the amazing Kandace Hill.
Take a Quick Look!
Club News
May – Growth and Gratitude Named for Maia, a Roman earth goddess, May is a time of blooms and burgeoning life. May Day on the 1st is celebrated with maypole dances in parts of Europe—a throwback to ancient fertility rites. In the U.S., the last Monday of May is Memorial Day, honoring fallen soldiers. In Mexico and among Mexican communities worldwide, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the unlikely victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The Indianapolis 500, often run in May, is one of the most famous car races in the world.
March Gem of the Month, Jenny Stoner presented the Gem for April to Kandace Hill.
May 7 — Karen Throckmorton May 9 — Carolyn Sweatt May 10 — Jan Allen May 29 — Helen Stead May 31 — Patti O’Conner
This year’s recipient of the GFWC of Holden Beach Memorial Scholarship is Ayla Austermiller of North Brunswick High School. Ayla will receive $2,150 from our club, which includes a grant from the Town of Holden Beach along with generous donations from our members. Ayla plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in Nutrition. She is exploring two career paths—Clinical Laboratory Science and Dietetics—both inspired by her strong love of science. Her passion has led her to take AP Biology and participate in hands‑on laboratory experiments that strengthened her interest in the field. She has been accepted to both the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University. In addition to our club award, Ayla earned First Place in the District Scholarship competition and will receive an additional $1,000 to support her tuition. We congratulate Ayla on her achievements and wish her every success as she begins this exciting new chapter.
GFWC of Holden Beach’s Band Scholarship Recipient Our club has provided a band scholarship to a deserving senior who has participated in the band at West Brunswick High School. The funds of $450 for this year’s scholarship come from the Arts and Culture CSP funds and the money raised from last summer’s Holden Beach Concert 50/50 Raffle. The recipient of this year’s scholarship is a highly dedicated senior who has devoted four years to both the band and the community. Through performances at games, parades, and community concerts, they have consistently demonstrated commitment and pride in our program. Beyond performing, this student has generously given their time at every event, helping ensure everything is set up properly and put away at the end. Mr. Seip, WBHS Band Director said that the band members and advisors are especially proud of Dalton Reavis, who also served as a section leader, mentoring younger students and helping them grow as musicians.
Scholarship Winners
GFWC of Holden Beach’s Memorial Scholarship Recipient
Gala Wrap-up
To see all the 2026 Gala Pictures, please click on this link:
Another Successful Gala!
Thanks to everyone who sent in pictures of the Gala to make this publication happen!
The 2026 Blooming for a Cause Charity Gala blossomed into our most successful event yet, thanks to the extraordinary dedication of the GFWC‑HB Clubwomen. From the many months of planning, to the hands‑on work during set‑up, to the energy and teamwork on the day of the Gala, our members showed what service in action truly looks like. Our heartfelt appreciation goes to every Committee, every Chair and Co‑Chair, and to our officers. Your leadership, creativity, and commitment shaped every detail of this year’s event and made its success possible. Beyond the numbers and the celebration, this Gala reflects something even more meaningful—the spirit of service that defines our club and the relationships strengthened through working side by side. What we accomplish together continues to make a real difference in our community. Thank you, Clubwomen, for all you do and all you continue to give. Julie Lopez Gala Chairman
As of this writing we are happy to say we have made a profit of $41,000 plus. BEST GALA YET!
“Hearts that beat to the tune of kindness can change the rhythm of the world.” – C.J. Peterson Thank you, 63rd GFWC of North Carolina President Karen Throckmorton for your two years of emphasizing the importance of how ART bridges the gap between different CULTURES and time periods. We are better because of you. Arts Touch Hearts, Open Minds, and Change Lives. Through President Karen Throckmorton’s initiative “Find Your Beat, Join the Rhythm”, she ensured everyone was felt heard and valued, helping each of us grow and succeed and finding our own beats. She thought of culture as the whole social fabric, and art as one of its most colorful threads. President Throckmorton energized, educated and empowered Federation Sisters to see their full potential to finding their own rhythm in their clubs making certain that retention and growth was at the forefront. She promoted well-being with her members by engaging arts into their lives to improve their mental and emotional health. She raised awareness of how ARTS and CULTURE are powerful tools to help us understand and navigate social challenges. President Throckmorton implemented cultural events and projects across North Carolina to bring people together creating a sense of shared identity and purpose helping to build strong communities. Our President, Kelly Imbody enhanced Karen’s theme by adopting it as the theme for her administration. Over the last two years, many of our club’s projects incorporated art and culture, such as the garden poles that now dot our community. Looking back, it is clear that President Throckmorton’s and President Imbody’s emphasis on arts is a blueprint for the future as GFWC continues to find ways to have a positive impact on our communities.
Arts & Culture CSP
Submitted by Michele Skultety
“Wishing Karen and Kelly wonderful adventures, excellent health, and much relaxation!” GFWC-HB Arts & Culture CSP Members: Holly Coleman Jeri Bills Page Blackwelder Marie-Pierre Fletcher Bennie Hall Karen Kennedy Carol Ann Lohman Sharon Pope Peggy Schiavonne Michele Skultety Teresa Teachey Karen Throckmorton Maureen Wright
ARTS is a Blueprint for GFWC
Art Supplies, Laptops & Reading
Education & Libraries CSP
In April, the committee delivered art and educational supplies—previously featured as centerpieces at the District 7 meeting—to Bolivia Elementary and Supply Elementary Schools. The teachers expressed their appreciation for these resources and were delighted that we included the decorated paint cans. We then delivered laptops and other computer equipment to the Brunswick County Government Center for the Computer 4 Kids program. The staff there were enthusiastic about receiving the items and explained that guidance counselors from Brunswick County schools contact them whenever a student needs a laptop or replacement parts. If you have equipment to donate, please visit their website for more information and location details. www.bcccomputer4kids.com May is designated as Get Caught Reading Month The purpose is to encourage people of all ages to read more books instead of spending time on screens. Starting in 1999, Every Child a Reader organizes this initiative, which invites photo submissions of readers caught with a book. Let’s fill our social media pages with you reading! Send your photos to Kandace Kehill57@gmail.com and/or post them on your social media with the Hashtag #getcaughtreading2026
Submitted by Kandace Hill
Nancy McDevitt & Kandace Hill Co-Chairmen
Tri-Beach Fire Department Open House
Robin Langley & Lisa Holmes Co-Chairmen
The Tri-Beach Fire Department replaced an existing fire station on Sabbath Home Road, originally built in 1968. A new station was needed to accommodate a permanently staffed station which would allow for quicker response times all around. The new station will have updated sleeping quarters, a slide instead of a fireman's pole and larger bay doors to accommodate newer fire trucks. The Tri-Beach Fire Department serves Varnamtown, Holden Beach and unincorporated Brunswick County from three stations located on Sabbath Home Road SW , Seashore Road in Supply and on Holden Beach. To celebrate our new fire department, the Civic Engagement and Outreach CSP created a project asking our local communities for their help in stocking the new Station 1 Fire House by purchasing items or making donations to supply or furnish the new facility. This was facilitated by the development of a QR code for ease of purchase along with an Amazon Wish List created by the firemen. Thank you to everyone who participated in this project. The outpouring of community support for this project was overwhelming! Area businesses, churches and community residents purchased over $2,400.00 in items to stock the new Tri-Beach Station 1. Kitchen items were a high priority (if you ever saw the old kitchen you understand!) also purchased were bathroom and sleeping quarter items. This was a great project for the Civic Engagement & Outreach CSP to take on and we had the support of the entire club AND community! To complete the project and bring it full circle a Grand Opening is scheduled for Friday, May 8th from 4 pm until 7 pm. Members of the Community are invited, and we hope that our club women will stop in to show our support and appreciation. About 12 club members will be on hand to help with refreshments, circulate and clean up. On the left side of this page is the announcement that went out to the communities of SeaScape and Lockwood Folly.
Civic Engagement & Outreach CSP
Submitted by Robin Langley & Kelly Imbody
GFWC of HOLDEN BEACH would like to thank all those that participated in our project to help stock the new Station 1 Fire House for graciously purchasing items and/or making donations to supply and furnish the new facility. A community Grand Opening is planned for Friday, May 8th from 4 – 7 pm 854 Sabbath Home Rd. SW Supply, NC Opening ceremonies will start at 4 pm, several local dignitaries will speak and tours of the new facility will be available afterwards. Please plan to attend to show your appreciation to those who selflessly serve us.
This was found on Facebook ... Hobbs Realty Vacations is at Holden Beach.
Good Job -- Environment CSP!
CARING FOR EARTH
Don’t you love the way God created Spring, orchestrating its scheduled activities to burst forth in new life and fresh beauty? In Spring, the earth undergoes a vibrant transformation. It awakens from winter’s dormancy—warmer temperatures, longer days, and fresh growth bring the season alive. As the soil warms, trees bud, flowers bloom, and plants sprout. Animals such as bears and squirrels emerge from hibernation. Migratory birds return, singing and chirping as they build their nests. Insects, bees, and butterflies resume their vital work, pollinating plants and ensuring the next generation of seeds and fruits. Spring is a time for new beginnings and renewal, and every animal, bird, and creature belongs to Him. The earth has been entrusted to us to care for and preserve its beauty. This is His gift to us; therefore, we must care for it and ensure that we are up to the challenge. Being part of the Environmental CSP of our club is rewarding. Each of us brings new ideas and thoughts to the group on ways to enhance and care for the beauty that has been provided to us. As club members in the Environmental CSP, let us always remember to care for this beauty that has been entrusted to us.
Environment CSP
Submitted by BJ Stephens
This is the kind of community we’re so proud to be part of and love sharing with you! One of our team members, who grew up here, was out on a walk and stumbled across a beach toy library… something they had never noticed before. It’s those little moments that make Holden Beach so special. Be sure to add this to your list of things to visit on your next trip!
Cindy Lee & Pam Foertsch Co-Chairmen
GFWC NC
Two years ago, I stepped into this administration with determination, optimism, and a shared belief in what was possible. Today, it’s astonishing how quickly those years have passed — and how profoundly they have shaped us. Our mission was clear from day one: guide the transition from nine districts to five. We knew it would be a major undertaking, but we didn’t expect quite so many curveballs. The initial boundary recommendations simply didn’t work operationally. So, we did what strong women do — we regrouped, recalibrated, and started fresh. New surveys, a new District Strategic Plan, and alignment with the GFWC NC Strategic Plan gave us a stronger, more unified foundation. Once the District Transition Committee formed, the pace accelerated. Summer and Fall were filled with planning sessions, policy reviews, and yes — endless bylaws. All of this happened while hosting the SER Conference in our first months. But the work paid off: a new District Standing Rules Template, updated policies, newly elected District Officers, and enthusiastic participation in the District Naming Contest. Connection remained the heartbeat of this administration. Club President Zoom sessions every other month became a vital link across the state. Visiting districts for Spring and Fall Meetings — and more than thirty-five clubs in person — was pure joy. Installations, inductions, celebrations, strategic planning, hands-on support: each moment reminded me why this Federation is so special. Leadership and Membership thrived. Workshops and dynamic speakers helped drive a 107% membership increase, plus one new General Club and two new Juniorette Clubs. That’s not just growth — that’s momentum. The response to the 2024–2026 President’s Special Project and our theme ‘Find your Beat, Join the Rhythm’ was extraordinary. From the Murals to Suffrage to Special Project Arts Contests, creativity flourished. Presenting checks for the Women’s National Suffrage Monument and to 24 clubs and organizations for Arts initiatives is a moment I will always treasure. To everyone who served during these two years: thank you. Your dedication made every success possible. A special thank you to GFWC of Holden Beach, for cheering me on through every twist and turn. As C.J. Peterson wrote, “Hearts that beat to the tune of kindness can change the rhythm of the world.” You have changed ours. My heart is full — with gratitude, pride, and hope for what comes next. The rhythm of this Federation has never been stronger. Keep finding your beat. Keep lifting one another up. And keep showing the world what happens when women lead with purpose and heart. Thank you for the honor of a lifetime. Karen Throckmorton 2024-2026 GFWC-NC President
Message from GFWC-NC President Karen Throckmorton
ESO Group with Judi, Kandace, Linda & Jeri Bills getting Certificates
Madame President Presiding
Winner of Lucy Bramlette Patterson Award Author - Donna Everhart
Civic Engagement
Legislation
Environment
ESO Group
Keynote Speaker US Congresswomen Valerie P Foushee
2025 GFWC-NC Advancement Plans/Special Programs 49 Clubs Reported 836 Projects 94,936 Hours $85,566 Dollars spend $696,213 Dollars Raised $3,393 Dollars Donated $4,080 in-Kind Donations
We were also honored with: District 7 Collaborative Relationship Contest Award GFWC-NC Honor Club Club Recognition for Net Increase in Membership Donna Geise a & Patti Hogan for 15 years membership and Bennie Hall for 65 years membership
Celebrating Federation Day April 24th
In Memory of ... Elene Bush
Highlights From the State Convention
WHRC
Kelley receiving Awards
LOOK AT THESE NUMBERS FOR OUR STATE'S HARD WORK
2025 GFWC-NC Community Service Programs 49 Clubs Reported 1,787 Projects 94,9360,487 Hours $651,170 Dollars Donated 392,610 in-Kind Donations ESO 18985 ESO Hours 2,768 Books Read
Linda was presented with a "Honorary Life Member" Award from her club.
President's Special Project award for Hope Harbor Home
Don't we look nice for the Saturday night Banquet
Kandace was selected as the state's "Clubwoman of the Year"
Our gang with Wendy Carriker, GFWC President-elect
Cindy Hewett GFWC-NC new President
$$$ 1,000 $$$$
If you ever have the opportunity…it’s a must to go to the state convention. It is an amazing opportunity to see how our little piece of the world fits into the big state picture along with the multiple clubs across the state. CHEERS Seeing our club win multiple awards for the projects we’ve done. Watching “our own” State President Karen Throckmorton preside over the convention and graciously step aside for our new State President Cindy Hewett. Celebrating “our own” Kandace Hill as Clubwoman of the Year. Celebrating “our own” Linda Sturgill into Honorary Lifetime Membership. Strengthening relationships with our own HB members who attended the convention. Welcoming amazing motivational speakers. CHALLENGES There is, of course, business to be done. Bring on the resolutions!! These are new or amended policies reviewed and voted on at the convention. I was forewarned by our members that have attended prior to watch for the fiery debates on each resolution. I have to admit that I was secretly excited to witness this AND it did not disappoint!! COCKTAILS Dinner the evening before the convention. Did I mention cocktails?? Receptions for the outgoing and incoming Presidents. Did I mention cocktails?? Wine in the lobby bar after meetings Whether you chose a cocktail or not, these were great opportunities to network with the many attendees IN CLOSING There are very long days…all day meetings and dress up banquets at night Will I do it again?? For sure!! Hope to see all of you next year at state… you won’t regret it!!
~~~~a first timers view of the NC Convention
Submitted by Colleen McDaniel
Don't miss the summer GFWC-NC meeting on July 25th in Calabash
COCKTAILS, CHEERS AND CHALLENGES
l to r - Sara Tyree, Rebecca Duffy, Karen Throckmorton & Kandace Hill
President’s Special Project and Quarter Millennial Final Report GFWC NC had a great two years advocating for the arts. The dedication and active participation in our communities proves that the arts are more than painted on a canvas, notes in a melody or words on a page or stage. They are the heartbeat of expression that tells stories. We raised over $20,000 for clubs to give back to organizations in our communities, turning passion into purpose and creativity to impact. These organizations remind us that art has the power to transform lives and by donating to them they become our partners in purpose. Twenty-three clubs across the state participated and received funds. The top twelve entries were awarded $1000 and eleven will receive $600 each! GFWC NC members all truly found their beat, joined the rhythm, and discovered the magic by advocating for the arts. The quARTter Millennial Project was simple in concept, powerful in purpose, we collected quarters. Small pieces of change that together created something extraordinary. Each quarter represents more than twenty-five cents. It represents participation and belief. A commitment to ensuring that future generations will see, learn, know the power of persistence and unity. The ladies the monument is dedicated to, contributed what they could, and their collective efforts became a movement that changed the nation. And so, we follow in their footsteps, with every quarter, check and dollar bill collected we are not just funding the monument, we are telling the world this story still matters. That women’s voices matter! We thank you all for being a part of this legacy. Because when we come together even with something as small as a quarter, we will create a lasting change. Our total collection is 40,000 quarters, which equals $10,000. As the song goes: Well, done, sister suffragettes!
President's Special Project The quARTer Millennial Project
Submitted by Judi Stankowich
America 250 NC
ESO
Enjoy some North Carolina historical fiction Check the website for more ideas. http://www.america250.nc.gov/book-club. (click on the above to follow the link) King's Mountain by Sharyn McCrumb The Last Ballad by Wiley Cash Crow by Barbara Wright Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier Tobacco Wives by Adele Meyer
GFWC Legislative Alert: Support Early Detection of Alzheimer’s
Submitted by Donna Geise
GFWC LAC
This is a “mammogram moment” for Alzheimer’s. The FDA has approved a simple blood test to detect Alzheimer’s and related dementia. The ASAP Act would allow Medicare to cover the cost of the blood test to detect Alzheimer’s before symptoms appear. The AADAPT Act will provide funding for virtual dementia education and training for primary care providers. These bills will help patients and their families make better informed treatment decisions, have access to new treatments, and obtain more support for families. Please urge Congress to act! Join the GFWC Legislative Action Center NOW. If you are already registered, please respond to the Alert. Thank you so much for your support.
If you need help joining the Legislative Action Center to support this cause and others. Contact Donna Geise, donnageise@gmail.com or Judi Stankowich, judistankowich@gmail.com for help.
Come travel to the West! It’s Siesta and Fiesta time with your GFWC Friends. Registration closes May 15th, so don’t miss out on the celebration.
Coming soon . . .
A Memory
There once were past presidents bold, Whose leadership shimmered like gold. They guided with grace, Set the pace for the place, And left stories proudly retold.
Legacy Ladies in Leadership