Saturday, July 26, 2008



June Knudson – Soroptimist of the Year 2007-2008

In her role as President for an unprecedented two years (normal term is one year), June spearheaded the concept of entrepreneurial leadership within Soroptimist International of Hood River. While acknowledging the balancing act of juggling home, career and community that challenges all women, June inspired us to renew our commitment to SIHR and move beyond the status quo. She instituted Project Managers and encouraged the establishment of a framework for all projects, insuring continuity from year to year and avoiding the starting-from-scratch often faced by new committee members. June established budgets, created flexible agendas and encouraged us to set new goals that reflected our mission of "the best for women."

June Knudson, “the reluctant president,” has been instrumental in taking SIHR to the next level and inspiring both old and new members with her commitment, drive and unflagging good cheer! Thank you, June, for your unfailing energy and contributions to Soroptimist International of Hood River!

JOIN SIHR!
Send your name, address and phone number to SIHR, Post Office Box 51, Hood River, OR 97031 or email Carolyn at carolyn@bci-grp.com or call 541-386-3990.


Photo by Denise Rehse Watson/www.PhotosensitivePortraits.blogspot.com

Friday, July 25, 2008



Fundraiser for Helping Hands Against Violence

Stacey Shaw and Swirl Wine Club present the compelling documentary I Know I’m Not Alone” on Saturday, August 9th at 7:30 p.m. at the Columbia Center for the Arts. Proceeds from the viewing benefit Helping Hands Against Violence, Inc.

Two years ago world-renowned musician Michael Franti decided to ‘walk his talk’ and traveled to the war zones of Iraq, Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. This wasn’t a USO green zone sponsored visit – Franti and his team organized a trip that would take him to the core of the red-zoned, war torn neighborhoods of Baghdad, the West Bank and Gaza Strip with his guitar, video cameras and the intent to experience first hand the human cost of war. Out of this journey, Franti has created a compelling documentary film titled
"I Know I’m Not Alone."

In addition to his groundbreaking music, Franti is a renowned speaker for social justice and human rights. He has lectured at many of this country’s top universities, including Yale, Georgetown and Stanford, and shared the stage with the likes of Mohammad Ali, Bill Clinton, Michael Moore, Ralph Nader, and Gloria Steinem.

A true armchair travel film,
"I Know I'm Not Alone" pulls the audience into these war zones in the company of Michael's guitar, eloquence and wit – you feel the humanity, artistic resilience and sometimes horrific experience of what it's like to live under the bombs and military occupation.

Admission : $5 • Wine : $6 / glass
7 pm – 7:25pm Social/wine • 7:30 pm Film begins

JOIN SIHR!
Send your name, address and phone number to SIHR, Post Office Box 51, Hood River, OR 97031 or email Carolyn at carolyn@bci-grp.com or call 541-386-3990.


Wednesday, July 23, 2008



Installation of Officers 2008-2009

On a warm and windy afternoon this past July 3rd, Soroptimist International of Hood River installed our new Officers for our 60th year of service in Hood River. The celebration was everything that Soroptimists are about: camraderie, caring and community!

Shown here is the new board being sworn in by SIHR member, Judy Jensen (in order of appearance):
Lisa Hargrave, President • Harriet Kelly, Secretary • Carolyn Van Orden, Treasurer • Kate Brownback, Director • Mary Lively, Vice President • Vicki Claflin, Director • Michele Sliwa, Delegate

JOIN SIHR!
Send your name, address and phone number to SIHR, Post Office Box 51, Hood River, OR 97031 or email Carolyn at carolyn@bci-grp.com or call 541-386-3990.


Photo by Denise Rehse Watson/www.PhotosensitivePortraits.blogspot.com


What do Soroptimists DO?

Hood River Soroptimists are a Very Busy group of women! Here's just a few of the many ways that SIHR contributes to the welfare and well-being of women and girls in the Gorge:

PROJECTS

The Lunafest Women's Film Festival is a fundraising and outreach program featuring independent films by, for and about women.
The Community Baby Shower gathers supplies and clothing for infants born to women in poverty.
Backpacks for Kids - Essential Care for Foster Kids is a partnership with Embarq to collect backpacks and essential care items for children in our community entering the foster care system.

FUNDRAISING RECIPIENTS

Helping Hands Against Violence offers support and shelter to women experiencing domestic violence.
The Hood River Young Women's Center provides young women who are leaving abusive situations with a safe, supportive environment while they make a new start.
The Inspiration Circle is an after-school group that helps young women in high school reach their fullest potential through academic focus and community service.

AWARDS

The Women's Opportunity Award is a cash award to female head of households seeking to improve their economic status through training and education.
The Women of Distinction Award honors women who have made outstanding achievement in their professional, business or volunteer activities.

JOIN SIHR!
Send your name, address and phone number to SIHR, Post Office Box 51, Hood River, OR 97031 or email Carolyn at carolyn@bci-grp.com or call 541-386-3990.

Photo by Denise Rehse Watson/www.PhotosensitivePortraits.blogspot.com