MINUTES OF WISCONSIN MANX SOCIETY, INC
April 14, 2002 – 1:00 PM
Midvale Community Lutheran Church
The Wisconsin Manx Society, Inc. met at Midvale Community Church, Madison on April 14, 2002. Following 11AM to Noon Registration and Social Hour and a delicious catered lunch at 12:00, President, Joyce Benjamin convened the business meeting and Past President; Jody Morey accompanied the group in the singing of the Manx National Anthem
Charlotte Ravenscroft, beautiful new daughter of Andrew, our Membership Secretary and his wife, Beth was introduced as our newest member. Norman and Ingrid Standish were guests.
The President read an item from the July, 1953 NAMA Bulletin urging members to attend the NAMA Silver Anniversary Convention in Cleveland, Ohio.
A few Memorial moments were spent, remembering our own member, Paul Rabenhorst and World Manx member, Noreen Cottier and the many contributions of each to the Wisconsin Manx Society. Our sympathy was expressed to Ellen Rabenhorst and her sons and to the Family History Society of the Isle of Man. Ellen thanked the group for cards and other expressions of sympathy and concern.
The Minutes of the Fall ’01 Meeting have been printed in the Spring Newsletter. They will be kept on file and become part of the recorded History of the WMS, Inc.
Joan Ogden, Treasurer reported a balance of $958.74. The annual report and fee for a Wisconsin Non-Stock Corporation have been sent to the Wisconsin Department of Institutions by the Treasurer. This is a requirement for retention of our Corporation (and tax-exempt) status. The complete Treasurer’s Report is on file with the President and Recording Secretary.
Membership Secretary, Andrew Ravenscroft thanked those who are remembering to pay their Membership dues, reminded us to keep encouraging others to join and said he will send queries to those who have been receiving the Newsletter, but have not responded to the Membership dues reminders. Historian, Mae Reese thanked those who have remembered to bring news items and photos regarding the WI Manx and our members. They will make our History more complete. Librarian Norma Bircher reminds us of the extensive collection of books and other items available for borrowing. Reading through the bound NAMA Bulletins is a great way to learn more about the Manx in America. They are bound in ten year increments. Those for 1991- 2000 are yet to be bound, but are available as single issues. Newsletter Editor Judy Schlueter, was told that the new format is appreciated. This edition was printed, labeled and mailed by Judy. Dorrie Alff will continue to work as co-editor. Address corrections have been achieved. Prompt notification of address changes is appreciated. Vice-President, Judy Bonnet did the necessary planning with the Caterer for today’s lunch, and has already set the date and contracted for the same kind of service for our Fall Meeting. See Fall Meeting date below. She will accept your reservations again in the Fall. If reserving by phone, please be certain to state the required information clearly
Correspondence – Information has been received on two new books on architecture in Northern IOM. It is available in the Library.
A Christmas greeting was received from Sam Quayle of the IOM.
Old Business –
Celtic Women International will meet this year in New Orleans. WMS will not be represented this year. We will pay registration fee for our President to attend the Minot Celtic Festival in September. She intends to pay for her own lodging and transportation and would be happy to have others join her on the trip. Jody Morey has been trying to get information about a Rock River Celtic Festival in Rockford (probably in July) but so far has not been successful. She will follow up on a suggestion to call the Rockford Convention Bureau. We hope to have WMS representation at that Festival.
The WMS report for the NAMA Bulletin was the report of our loss of Paul Rabenhorst. We know that many NAMA members will remember him from the ’96 convention in Madison and/or the 2000 Convention on the Isle.
Convention 2002 was discussed. Norman Standish brought Registration blanks and Hotel/Motel/B&B Listings. As Chairman of the event, Standish was able to give us the latest information on the exciting program that is in store for those who attend. Plans are proceeding for the presentation of the 1st Manx North American Youth Award at the 2002 Convention. Mary Kelly is on the Committee and assures us that James Morey will be considered for the award for his musical efforts. WMS is proud to sponsor him as a candidate.
Special "Harry Potter" Manx Coins will be available for purchase at the NAMA Convention. Norman Standish brought special order information and encourages those who want them to order them in advance of June 1, 2002 so that they may be procured in advance of the Convention. They are only minted on the Isle of Man.
Meeting was adjourned and followed by the Program.
Program – " The Standish Family in America-Persistent Settlers"
In a striking Pilgrim costume, Norman Standish presented a fascinating saga of the Standish enterprising spirit and the tendency to settle further and further West as opportunity beckoned. His interesting stories made us all look forward with anticipation to the Convention programs.
Next Meeting – October 20, 2002 - Midvale Lutheran Church - Madison
Program: Convention Reports and Video on "Star of India"