Stillwater women’s GOP president passing the gavel

As 2014 comes to a close, so does my role as president of the Stillwater Republican Women. Reflecting on the past four years, the support of our membership has been overwhelming. Because of the dedicated “Team Work” we have accomplished numerous projects. Early on, I encouraged members with my motto: “Involvement Brings Awareness..”
Educating one self on all levels of government to be better informed is a “key” to promote the Republican principles and values. I have attended meetings at the County Commissioners. I learned that my voice could be heard under “Public Comment” - Note pursuant to 2-3-103, MCA by giving presentations about Women Suffrage -100 years ago the right to VOTE, local government, literacy program to name a few.
In keeping with learning, I attended a National Federation of Republican Women regional meeting in Rapid City, SD in the Spring of 2013 and then a Montana Federation of Republican Women meeting in Billings in conjunction with the MT GOP Convention and then a trip to Helena for the Fall Biennial meeting for election of State Officers.
2014 activities included joining the Stillwater County Chamber of Commerce in March 2014. SRW submitted Tonya House, Adult Volunteer of the Year. It was rewarding to see the questions asked at the annual awards banquet about the Back Pack Program. The level of awareness was elevated.
In April we approved having a Facebook page. The revised “Burma Shave Signs” have been in place since June 2014 on I-90 eastbound with a strong message about “America.” Scholarships were given to three Stillwater Seniors with first place winner receiving $1,000, second place $500 and third place $200 in May 2014.
Another first in 2014: monthly column in the local newspaper (SCN) entitled “Is America Free” written by member Fiona Nave is SRW education program on the principles of liberties.
My thanks to Barb for the use of the Columbus downtown display windows since August 2013. Current events and history is reflected in the displays. SRW hosted a constitution seminar entitled “The Making of America” in September 2013.
SRW received financial support from the Stillwater Republican Central Committee along with a number of businesses and individuals. This reflected great team work from members and the communities SRW participated in three parades to promote the seminar starting with Columbus, then Fishtail and Absarokee.
On Oct. 22, 2011, SRW hosted the MTFRW Biennial Convention at the Cobblestone School Community Center in Absarokee. Thank you members for a big undertaking – team work.
Since 2010 SRW has been making a difference by “Adopting-A-Highway” - yet another project.
SRW continues to support the literacy program from the National Federation of Republican Women. Members have given of their time and money to support the local “Project Hope -Angel Tree.”
Kudos to the SRW membership. It has been an honor to serve you these past four years. God Bless America and each of you.
Shirlee Keffer
Columbus