crystal Coast QUilters' guild

Dear Guild Members,

It’s the start of a New Year with many changes taking place. First, I’d like to thank Cathy Crandell for being such a wonderful President for the past three years during some very difficult times. Her ability to always keep an open mind and striving for what was in the best interest of the guild and its members, proved to be a real benefit to our guild during the pandemic. I’d also like to thank Chris Pochwat for her service as Treasurer and for her decision to guide our members with the UFO and PHD Challenges, which have been fun ways for us to stay connected by sharing our progress on Facebook. We all owe both of you a big Thank You! I’d also like to extend a big thank you to Lisa Rechkemmer, and all who helped with the December Luncheon. It was so nice to have an in-person gathering and visit with one another again! It really helped put everyone in the holiday spirit.

Looking ahead, the guild will be changing our website host soon. Our current host does not offer some features that will enable us to create a website that is more user-friendly. You will be informed, when this change has taken place. Members at the December Luncheon voted to raise our dues to $35 a year. Please take care of paying your dues now. They can be paid on the website, mailed to Vicky Garner, or to the guild’s post office box.

I’m looking forward to the new year and hope that we will be able to enjoy more in-person gatherings. We are exploring different options and will keep you informed of what we find.

Stitch away,

Laurie

Dear Guild Members,

Reflecting on the last three years as your president, I am reminded of the opening lines of A Tale of Two Cities, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. . .” From my perspective the Guild has had some wonderful times over the past couple of years: staging a successful quilt show with stunning quilts and touching memorials to some of our former members; coming together for listening sessions and creating new goals for the future of the Guild; partnering with local libraries to bring our art to the community and with the hospital, to help patients in need of care.

And then the worst of times: COVID-19 with illness, death, anxiety, and isolation. Yet, in the midst of the pandemic, angels emerged from our ranks, making masks for first responders. With time at home, our members made scores of quilts for kids and veterans. We found ways to connect through Zoom meetings, writing notes in the newsletter, and telephone calling. Our Workshop Committee pivoted to an online format, bringing us workshops and lectures from nationally recognized teachers, and we were motivated by the UFO and PHD challenges.

Although the future remains uncertain with regard to COVID-19, its variants and what we need to do to remain safe and healthy, I am convinced that the Crystal Coast Quilters’ Guild will thrive. We have not only weathered this crisis as a group, we have continued to care for each other, and those in need, through our love of quilting. I look forward to our future together, continuing to build our relationships and enjoying each other while making a contribution to our community.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your president.

Warmly,

Cathy