The 2007 year ended nicely with November (Thanksgiving) and December (Christmas) meetings well attended. We received many nice "warm wear" items which were donated to three schools in the Cedar Rapids area. Several of our members spent many hours making beautiful hats and mittens for the students. With the fierce winter that we have had, these donations were warmly received.

Our 2008 schedule is out and looks like a fun year. We have cancelled the February meeting because of the weather and bad roads. On March 13^th we will be hosting the "Beeping" Easter Egg Hunt at the Iowa Braille & Sight Saving School in Vinton, Iowa. The hunt will start at 1:00 p m and probably be in the school gym. All are welcome to come. If weather does not permit us to drive to Vinton, we will still provide the students with Easter goodies in backpacks.

Our Cedar Rapids meetings are always on the fourth Wednesday of each month except November and December. Locations do change so call ahead if you are in town for the day and will be able to join us. If you want a meeting schedule mailed to you, please call me, Frank Edmunds. Here is a glimpse of what we will be doing in 2008: March 26, Huntington's in Marion; April 23, Coopers Mill; May 28, Metro (Buffet); June 25, Coopers Mill; July 23, Wicki- up Hill; August 27, Usher’s Ferry (Picnic); September 24, Bloomsbury Farm; October 22, Chrome Horse; November 19, Coopers Mill (Thanksgiv- ing); December 17, Long Branch (Christmas).

We are looking forward to seeing all of you at our meetings. The hospitality is always great and of course we like to eat. We enjoy sharing fond memories of the past and seeing people we have not seen for a long time. Come and reminisce with us.

Each year, sadly, we lose members and we take this time to remember those who are no longer with us. May they rest in peace.

Yours in Pioneering,

Sincerely,

Frank Edmunds