• Co-president Sage Taber opened the meeting with the AAUW mission statement, approval of minutes, and a hearty thanks to the hosts for presenting a table full of tasty treats.
• Co-president Carol Anthony addressed three items:  the March 20 deadline to register for the IBC spring luncheon; the B-C need to fill two appointed positions for Hospitality; and the 2025 dues of $74 and the 2026 dues of $76.
• Presentation of 2025 Slate – Bette Bude introduced the nominees and directed the members to the newsletter and website for bios and photos.  The election will be at the April meeting. 
• Finance – Total deposits top $31,780.00.
• Public Policy – Co-director Angie Janik alerted us that the legislative session is active, one week before spring break.  Bills are moving quickly.  To keep up with the latest developments and links for contacts, see https://ballwinchesterfield- mo.aauw.net/ and click PUBLIC POLICY.
• Program – Kathy Brown announced a meeting to be held after the speaker to set plans for next year’s speakers.  Ideas are welcome to Kathy or Marcia Block.

• BC Boosters – Marcia reminded us that contributions may be made through May and can be sent to Linda Roberson.  Information is in the newsletter and on the website.
• $$ for Scholars – Carol called for ideas and reviewed the success of the library tour, possibly to be repeated, and the tai chi demonstration.
• Spring Luncheon – Jane Hemer reviewed the process of reserving for the May 8 Spring Luncheon. See the newsletter and website for more information.
• STEM – Barb McQuitty announced the STEM Girls of Promise ceremonies and requested volunteers to help at the three high schools:  Valley Park, April 10 at 7:15 a.m.; Maplewood Richmond Heights, April 18 at 7:15; and Pattonville, April 22 at 7 a.m.  In addition, judges from STEM will review projects submitted to the 2025 Academy of Science e-Fair and will choose AAUW B-C’s winners.
• Out-to-Lunch – Mary Biggs encouraged all to attend the lunch on Wednesday, March 19, at EdgeWild.
• Munching Matters – Linda Roberson drew attention to the date change for April.  See “Save the Date.”
• Friday Reminder – Carol pointed out that the name “Friday Reminder,” or FR, describes the purpose of the publication and is the preferred name for it. 

PROGRAM SPEAKER:  Huvona Watkins, Executive Director of Almost Home, discussed how the non-profit supports at-risk mothers and their children to help them create a better future.

Ms. Watkins described the cycle of poverty that continues to keep young women stuck, generation after generation, making self-sufficiency extremely difficult.  She gave examples of how the cycle can be broken by providing a pathway and support for 16-21-year-old moms who have not finished high school and who need housing to start their journey to a healthier, better life.