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This month is a time to give thanks so I thought I would show my appreciation to the Board members who show up, stand up and speak up for the Sonoma County League of Women Voters. The board is all volunteer as the League has no paid staff members.
I believe Juanita Roland is our longest serving board member and she has worn many hats. For quite a while, she was treasurer (and we all know how hard it is to find another person to take over that job!)and is now heading up communications. She was instrumental in our new website design . With Iris Levitis, they help keep all the members in the know via our website and newsletters. Iris, our youngest member is very thoughtful in her probing questions on how the League can improve going forward and reminds us of the value and challenges of younger participants.
Linda Rosen – a retired financial person – was perfect to take over Treasurer duties this year and already, her expertise has helped us develop policies and procedures to protect the organization in the future. Lee Lipinski – our newest board member – has taken the position of VP of administration. She and Linda will keep our office humming and organized. Lee also headed up the Voters Services committee in the past.
Voter Services Chair is now held by Karen Weeks who brings a wealth of knowledge on government as she worked for the city of Sant Rosa for many years and sits on the Planning Commission. Karen and her team will be setting up the candidate forums as well as the Pros and Cons information which helps voters decide on the important issues.
Those important issues are discussed, researched, and made available to members through the advocacy committee which is headed by Leona Judson. She too has held different positions in the League and is incredibly thorough and diligent. If Leona says she will do something, its done! Gene Zingarelli stays very active in this committee and has done so for years.
Jim Masters became involved with the League because of his expertise in the Census and he has since used his research skills to keep us all engaged and informed about issues in the county. Jim also oversees stocking voter registration forms at libraries and other places of interest.
Judie Coleman is our enthusiastic membership guru. She reaches out to every one of our new members to help them be involved. She also can take a great idea and run with it as she has done with the new Observer Corps.
Gayle Peterson knows how to throw a party and is a great hostess. As our Program Chair, she will organize meetings and socials.
Last but not least, is Debbie McKay who steps up to do just about anything needed by the League which included being the past president and current Secretary. Not only is she hard-working, but she is SO smart. She is our go to person for all things League related and writes wonderful articles.
I also want to thank three people involved in youth development – Lynn Dooley, Elaine Covell and Nancy Lewis - as well as Sue Jackson who oversees the Voter’s Edge information.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
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