Salem Lutheran (Albert Lea) Women’s Board met on Sept. 8, 2010. President Deb Beighley presided. A devotion entitled “Thimbles of Love” was given by Laurel Herdina. The board had not met during the summer and all circle leaders were present at this meeting. The secretary’s report was read by Kathy DePoppe and the treasurer’s report was distributed as prepared by Sharon Dilling.

Thank you notes were received from: St. John’s for serving coffee hour, Lutheran World Relief and REACT for cookies given to the rest stop travelers on 4th of July weekend. An invitation was received from Faith Lutheran Church in Hutchinson to attend their New Beginning Meeting at Faith Lutheran Church on Oct. 2. A Ladies Bible Study scheduled at Albert Lea Vineyard Church Sept. 18. Crossroads Church Community Sewing Day was held on the Sept. 18 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Salem was invited.

All circles are to complete a questionnaire sent out by River Channels regarding the lack of women’s support at retreats, conventions, etc. in hopes of finding a solution to inactive members.

Thanks was extended to all who made the Church Women United meeting hosted by Salem a success on Sept. 3. Those who participated in the Human Rights Celebration Program were: Kathy Paul, Beth Spande, Jeanette Ophaug, Caroline Neale, Terry Olson, Lynette Hendrickson,Cynthia Nelson, Helen Weik, Judy Dilling, Lois Anderson, Betty Kalis and Audrey Johannsen. Special music was provided by Rebekah Sousa and Nancy Lahs. Ushers were Eleanor Schember and Pat Hayek. Registration was done by Pat Mangskau and Pat Dollum. Pauline Hall was in charge of the program. Guest speakers were Libby Seifert and Juana Raatz from SPIRE. A most enjoyable morning with great attendance.

Upcoming events:

SOS (Salem over Sixty) touring the SPAM Museum in Austin and to a buffet at the Holiday Inn on Sept. 30.

SOS will go to Glenville Candle Shop on Oct. 28, with lunch at the Office Cafe.

Dedication Dinner (Salem women potluck) will be held on Oct. 14 at 6 p.m. at Salem.

Pauline Hall reported all Salem shut-in’s were called on by WELCA team during the summer months. Laurel Herditta stated Sew ‘N Tell met on Aug. 12 and 24 and made up used clothing boxes for the Marie Sandvik Center, Appalachia, and VA. The ladies also made and gave several quilts where needed. Meeting closed with Lord’s Prayer. Next WELCA Board meeting will be on Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2010.