Those present at the Spring meeting of the Women of Augustana on Saturday May 5th listened with close attention as presenter Jim Schwab talked about different kinds of disasters that had occurred all over the world. Tornados, hurricanes, tsunamis, wildfires, landslides and floods were illustrated with slides showing terrible devastation. Jim's job with the American Planning Association in Chicago involves research and training projects which relate to natural hazards and environmental planning. If it's possible what can be done to help protect people and places from some hazards such as landslides and wildfires? Jim's work with natural hazards has taken him to the Caribbean, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, New Zealand and the U.S. Gulf Coast after Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Ike. His presentation title, “I Sent You a Boat” alludes in a symbolic way to the help that is given after a natural disaster occurs.
During the business meeting it was announced that Robin Mitchell is taking charge of organizing coffee hours. Spring kitchen cleanup volunteers are Neva Hefner, Sandra Henley and Michele Makinen. Summer volunteers are Judy Merritt Morgan and Mira Krull.
The Fall meeting of the Women of Augustana will be held on October 27. Jessica Nipp will give a presentation on the ELCA Malaria Campaign. Mark your calendars now! (Please note the change of the October date.)