Show and Tell November 15, 2011

What a wonderful show and tell we had. While we were a bit cramped in 216 for the meeting and our show and tell--we still heard the oh's and ah's with each quilt. Great show everyone.

Kathleen Shaw's “Safari” is a fractured nine patch. She took Pat Alfredson‘s Walk on the Wild Side Challenge which limited the quilted project to 100 inches in circumferce and went on Safari.


Note that the challenge fabric is in the four corners.






Kay Brill made two scrap quilts. The first used an August Cole scrap quilt
pattern to make this wonderful quilt—it is pieced and quilted by hand.

And the second was a scrap quilt pieced by machine and quilted by hand.


Joan Peake attended Bethany Richardson’s Stack-n-Whack workshop and made this classy pillow.

She also made a miniature pinwheel quilt entitled “Primitive Gatherings Pinwheels.









Sierra Smith had some left over blocks and made a “Fairy
Wall” Hanging.

She also made a nice big quilt bag to carry all of her wonderful creations from two leftover blocks.

Sierra made this table runner for her daughter’s boyfriend’s mother to match the Santa she bought in Savannah.





Kathy Edwards machine pieced and quilted “Fractured Flower”. The instructions for this can be found in “Fabulous Fractures” by Brenda Esslinger.



Kathy also produced her own design “Wheels 2” where she hand painted the background; it was handdrawn with watercolor pencils, machine appliqued and quilted.

Libby Dudley made this original Halloween Door Decoration. It is based on the Topiary Block Design of June 2011 luncheon—“A Witch’s Brew of a Flower.


Ro Coller was on retreat and she accomplished a lot. She made “Purple/Blue Strips that Sizzle” which was from a Margaret Miller class.



Pink and Green Cottage quilt, a fractured nine patch. The pattern is from McCall’s Quick Quilts Nov. 2011.








She also made a jelly roll strip quilt.

And a fractured 9 patch/ red-black –white design. Lastly, she made a table runner with leftover blocks from the fractured nine patch. It is a variation of the 10-minute table runner.





Jill Crispino made this lovely “Star of David Wall” hanging. The Star is paper pieced on the machine. The rest was put together by hand. It was machine quilted.











Lynne Fishburn pick up “My Lucky Day”, a quilt top that she
purchased at the Springfield QU Auction on Nov. 15, 2011.

Lynn Eccleston made “Fugue in Pinks and Browns” which pattern
is adapted from a block of the month by Connecting Threads. Lynn wanted a larger quilt so she purchased additional fabric and desgined the border. It was
an arithmetical nightmare. She also substituted a brighter pink because as designed, the values seemed to be too similar, resulting in a “flat” appearance.
This was a new adventure in machine quilting for me. She used a LOT of thread.









Lynn also made “Harvest Dresden” which is a traditional design. She had scraps from Cherrywood hand dyes. She used a specialized wedge ruler and hand appliqued the Dresden plates to the green background and machine quilted the quilt.













Lynn also made “Pink Pinwheels” which is an original design. Lynn says that this is a charity quilt for Quilters Quarterly. A friend gave her a package of jellyrolls to be used for a charity quilt. She thought the design was too busy to stand by itself, so she put the blocks on point with a pink background and bright pink sashing. She used a wool batting which makes the machine quilting popout.



Ruth Morgan made this Asian quilt for her son for Christmas. It is a turning twenty pattern and Lynne quilted it. I hope to surprise him with this.

This crazy style quilt was pieced by Ruth's husband's grandmother back in the 1960's and Ruth sewed the strips together as a gift for him for his birthday last month. He was thrilled. Angie quilted it for me.



Andrea Gribble named this quilt "Stained Glass Windows." The blocks were done at a block exchange. It took her a year to put it together and another to figure out a border. It was quilted by Lynne Fishburne. She finished the top at this year's retreat.





Jim Melton showed us his civil war quilt top that he has started.

Mary Downey made this patriotic quilt for a silent auction for the Aurora Hills Women's club--

And her second quilt is for her great niece who is being confirmed this month.

December Newsletter

MOUNT VERNON CHAPTER OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE
COMMITTEE-2011-2012Co-Presidents— Ruth Morgan and Ro Coller
Vice President/Programs— Carol Kunkel
Secretary— Jim Melton
Treasurer—Mary Mazzuchi
Nominating Chair— Libby Dudley
Newsletter—Mary Downey


Co-Presidents’ Message
Hi all-- We certainly had a fabulous November--beginning right on the 1st with our Annual Auction. We brought in over $8,000--something of a record for Mt. Vernon. The live auction was lots of fun. Andrea's stories were priceless but not so the items. They had great prices attached to them thanks to some very spirited bidding. There were many pleased members and guests leaving the auction with all their swag from the live auction, the silent auction, the chance auction as well as the buy it now and white elephant areas. The lunch and yummy food items were also a hit. Thanks to all who made the auction a success: those who contributed items, those who bought items, those who set up, those who cleaned up, those who worked at the cashier tables and those who worked in any way to contribute to such a successful endeavor.

Thanks, also, to our ad hoc fiscal committee. They submitted their findings and recommendations to the executive board after the business meeting on November 15. Ruth and I will be reporting to you early in 2012 regarding their recommendations as well as other suggestions we are working on to move Mt. Vernon forward.

We had a great business meeting (very cozy as it was held in room 216), with lots of show and tell and news from Carol regarding upcoming programs. We're looking forward to Bunnie Jordan's lecture and workshop in January.

Tammy Mannarino previewed the Holiday Luncheon theme: Starry, starry night. Get your instructions for the white Ohio Star block on a blue background on the blog. Get out your best holiday recipes and come to the pot luck lunch on December 13. Dig out that dreaded UFO and wrap it attractively. Of course, you have to take someone else's UFO if you bring yours.

We hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family, friends and food galore. See you at the Holiday Luncheon.

Ro and Ruth

Vice-President's Message
Thanksgiving is behind us, I hope yours was full of family, fun and of course wonderful food!! During my four day holiday weekend I put away thoughts of upcoming programs and began work on a new quilt—my Stack-n-Whack quilt from our recent Bethany Reynolds program. Oh to be working on that again tonight!! But alas, it is time to think once again about upcoming programs and to start sending encouraging words regarding our January and February programs.

As announced at our last meeting, 2012 is chock full of wonderful quilting opportunities. WE start the year with Bunnie Jordan, a local quilt historian and teacher. She will present her Civil War lecture on January 24th followed by an opportunity to fondle and learn about antique quilts at the workshop titled Hit Parade of Quilting on Jan 25th at the Government Center. Dig out your favorite old quilt and bring it to the workshop to learn more about the fabrics in your quilt.

February brings Jean Ann Wright. By profession Jean Ann is a quilt magazine editor. In her other life she is a quilt book author. She and her sister recently published their book, Circle of Nine Quilt. Jean Ann will present her trunk show and discuss her new technique. I have not yet received a copy of her book to share with you. Hopefully we will have a sample of this new technique to show you before the lecture and workshop, Feb 28 & 29.

April, if transportation issues allow, brings Laurette Koserowski, editor of The Quilter Magazine, for a lively and spirited and fun filled lecture on March27. Among her duties at The Quilter Magazine, Laurette reviews many many books and chooses the books that are reviewed in the magazine. Laurette will not be putting on a workshop on the 28th but I have a few ideas, so save the date!

April brings Karen K. Stone. This workshop has received a number of reservations. Many hands were raised when we asked for show of interest in this program. So, if you raised your hand, please get your registration form and check to me soon.

If we are to continue to have quality programs, we need to fill these workshops. I will have registration forms for all of these workshops at the luncheon and I plan to start advertising outside of MVQU a day or two later. Please see me at the luncheon. Let’s fill these workshops! We do so much wonderful work to raise the money which allows us to have these programs, and we have a fabulous lineup. Bunnie and Jean Ann were recommended as presenters by MVQU members. I am excited to bring them to MVQU for your quilting pleasure!! Happy Stitching, Carol


December 13, 2011 –
Holiday Luncheon: Starry, Starry Night

Where: Hollin Hall Senior Center
Time: 12:30
We love Red and Green for the Holidays, but sometimes it’s nice to try something a little different. Think BLUE, like the blue field of a night time sky twinkling with stars. As always, we will have a Potluck Lunch. Everyone should bring a dish to share whether it is an appetizer, salad, entree, side or dessert. You may bring Show and Tell in keeping with the theme of Starry, Starry Night. In addition, you may bring something that is being given as a gift that you won’t be able to show later. Feel free to dress in stars or in blue.

Rather than a gift exchange, there are UFO’s in our Star-Filled sky. It’s a UFO exchange! Please package an unfinished object in an attractive way including any partially completed parts, fabric and instructions needed to complete. Think about how we package blocks and tops for our auction. Then place your UFO in a plain brown grocery bag and put a label on it (e.g. Happy Holidays from Tammy) so that you won’t pick your own! Everyone who brings one will get to/must take one home. It is your challenge to finish your new UFO in any way you would like….complete it as intended, incorporate it into an existing project. The sky is the limit.

If it’s a luncheon, there are blocks for a Block Raffle!

We have chosen Ohio Star because it is relatively easy and we think it is a great idea to simplify the holiday season! It will be a 12 inch block (Unfinished 12 ½ inches) with Blue Background and White Star. Both fabrics should read as solids. It’s a traditional pattern with no copyright issues. Instructions can be found at http://www.quilterscache.com/O/OhioStarBlock.html Feel free to use a quick piece method to make your quarter square triangles! The blocks will be raffled at the luncheon. Your name goes into the basket one time for each block you make.

Of course, we will need your help in all of this. Let us know if you can Volunteer. We will need folks to do some prep work (making centerpieces, assist in purchasing, planning decorations) and then also folks for the day of the luncheon for set up and clean up. Especially clean up, since Anne and I have Kids coming home from school in the afternoon. Thanks in advance for your help! Anne Poulin and Tammy Mannarino

HOLLIN HALL SENIOR GIFT CARD COLLECTION

We are collecting and donating quilts to the Carpenter's Shelter following our Tuesday pot luck luncheon. If anyone has a quilt to donate to the shelter, they should get it to me no later than the luncheon. Quilts for Carpenter's Shelter may be any size, for any age, of any style, and for boys or girls, men or women. The Carpenter's Shelter is for homeless families and families in transition. Our quilts have been greatly appreciated in the past, and were used in the shelter and then used and displayed in the recipients’ home as they transitioned out of the shelter.

I am also looking for two volunteers to take our quilts to the Carpenter's Shelter, and to take pictures of our donations being received by the shelter staff. Please feel free to call me at (703)-659-5050 or email me at philiplakier@msn.com" So far, I have been given 10 quilts ready to donate.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Thanks go to Hedy Van for her “Three Little Pigs” story quilt displayed at the Sherwood Library in November and Lynn Eccleston for her fall leaf tessellation quilt displayed at the Hollin Hall Senior Center. For December, Ruth Morgan’s vintage pillow sham is at the library and Mary Downey’s MVQU auction win is on show in the Hollin Hall office. Thanks again to all for sharing. If you can share a lap-sized quilt or two for a month – like January, please contact committee chair Libby Dudley. Display could start as early as Dec. 27.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE:

Over the holidays, while you snuggle under those great quilts you made and shared at Show and Tell and the Quilt Show, and even before that at Bees as you made them and told their stories, and at Programs and Workshops where you gained ideas and learned techniques, give a thought to volunteering for a leadership role in keeping the enthusiasm of our chapter going in 2012-13. Even “newbies” can step up – each of us stepping up in some way makes it work for us all. Happy Holidays. Libby Dudley, Chair.

SPECIAL NOTICE TO ALL MVQU MEMBERS:

Please be aware of the Fairfax inclement weather policy—you can find it in the November minutes posted in this newsletter.

In addition, you should also be aware that if you are a member of MVQU, you need not purchase a pass for the Hollin Hall Senior Center. Your membership in MVQU entitles you to enjoy the activities of MVQU held at the Center.

MVQU UPCOMING EVENTS AND REMAINING PROGRAMS IN 2011-2012
December 13, 2011 Holiday Luncheon
January 3, 2012—Bee, Room 216
January 10, 2012-- Business meeting
January 17, 2012 – Bee, Room 216
January 24, 2012--Bunnie Jordan, Civil War Trunk Show
January 25, 2012-- Bunnie Jordan Workshop: Hit Parade of Quilting
January 31, 2012--Community service workshop
February 14, 2012-- Business Meeting
February 28, 2012--Jean Ann Wright, Quilts in my Suitcase; The Life of a Traveling Quilt Editor
February 29, 2012-- Jean Ann Wright Workshop: Circle of Nine Quilts
March 13, 2012-- Business meeting
March 27, 2012--Lorette Koserowski, Quilt Book Review
April 10, 2012—Karen K. Stone
April 11, 2012—Karen K. Stone Workshop: New York Beauty
April 24, 2012—Business Meeting
April 30- May 3 --Spring Retreat
May 8, 2012--Business meeting
May 22, 2012--Mike Ellingsen: Machine Quilting on a traditional machine
May 29, 2012--Community service workshop
June--Big QU Quilt Show Boutique
June 12, 2012-- Year End Luncheon

HOLIDAY CHALLENGE

Come participate in our holiday challenge. Create a quilted piece that reflects your favorite holiday. This can be a recognized holiday, i.e., Christmas, New Years, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, 4th of July, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, President’s Day or it can reflect your very own holiday perhaps your birthday. Have you been on a vacation holiday? You might want to reflect on your vacation holiday, perhaps a trip to the beach or mountains or skiing. Design a quilt that reflects your favorite holiday. The project can be any shape but no larger than 264 inches around the perimeter or circumference (60 x 72). We will show our completed projects at the business meeting in February. These challenges must be completed finished, including the quilting and binding. A label would be good also.

2013 QUILTER'S UNLIMITED RAFFLE QUILT COMMITTEE UPDATE
Thanks to everyone who made and handed in the Bull’s Eye blocs for the 2013 QU Raffle Quilt. We have all the blocks needed and we are now assembling them. ..................From the 2013 Raffle Quilt Committee.

BLANKET PERMISSION FROM BONNIE HUNTER
This should solve any confusion with regard to Bonnie’s designs. Bonnie writes--note my emphasis in red

It has come to my attention that there is a bit of a buzz and confusion in the quilt world thanks to a particular magazine article in McCall's Quilting. The article is requiring quilters to get direct permission from each and every designer allowing them to display quilts made from our designs in your local quilt shows. This has greatly increased both my email and my snail mail and the time it takes to reply is daunting!! It is taking away so much quilting time!

I WANT you to show the quilts made from my designs in your local shows! I love it when you send me pictures! Please consider this public announcement BLANKET PERMISSION for you to do so. You don't need to write me or send me forms in the snail mail to sign and mail back to you. (And ones that require me to use my own stamps to mail back to you? FORGET IT! At least some have included self addressed stamped envelopes) All I ask is that you list me as the designer on the label, and include the ORIGINAL NAME OF THE QUILT if you happen to change the quilt to some other name that suits your own story. Something like this works great:




Carol made her quilt while following along with last years "Carolina Christmas" mystery. She did hers in blue and green and gold, and renamed hers "Happy Scrappy Stars", but included BOTH quilt names on her label.

This is really important when it comes to tracking back a quilt to its origin. Designers are losing their connections to their own designs as patterns go out there and are constantly renamed by everyone who makes the quilt. So including the designer AND the original name of the pattern keeps all that important information intact, and gives credit to the designer. You will also notice that Carol gave proper mention of her machine quilter as well! Quilted by Kristy! This is IMPORTANT!

The only thing I would add if I were Carol, would be her own signature somewhere on there, in pigma pen. Future generations are going to be missing out on our personal handwriting, and personal handwriting is very valuable on antique quilts. It gives a connection to a REAL PERSON, not just a computer-generated-die-cut-printed-thing made by a machine. Don't forget to SIGN your labels! Happy Quilting, Happy Showing! Bonnie Hunter



QU 39th ANNUAL QUILT SHOW
The Quilt Show is coming. The Quilt Show is coming. Now is the time to think about what you will be showing in the Quilters Unlimited 39th Annual Quilt Show. Show dates are June 1 – 3. Any QU member in good standing may enter up to five (5) quilts in the show. You cannot enter items in the show that you have shown in past QU shows. This year we will continue to use the online registration procedure that was launched last year. If you are uncomfortable using a computer or do not have internet access do not let this keep you from showing a quilt. We will work with you to get your quilts registered.

Online registration begins January 1, 2012 and for Mt. Vernon closes on February 27th. We will be explaining in detail how to register your quilts in the January Newsletter and at the January 10th Business Meeting. You will need to register all the quilts you want to show during one login session. So be prepared with all the information for each quilt before you begin the registration process. Don’t worry about all these details at this time. We will walk you through the process and have written instructions for you in January.

Now is the time to get your projects finished so they can be displayed at the show. Email your questions or concerns to your quilt collectors, at mvququiltcollectors@gmail.com

Your Quilt Collectors
Lynne Fishburn and Angie Miller


2012 RAFFLE QUILT






The 2011-12 raffle quilt is named “Virginia Beauty.” The Vienna Raffle Quilt Team will be in contact with each QU chapter to bring the raffle quilt to their chapter meeting to sell tickets. Karla Vernon designed “Virginia Beauty” using EQ7 software with an outer border block named “Jamestown Square” to reflect the Virginians who made this quilt. Appliquéd vines, leaves, and flowers, and a paper-pieced center star reveal different quilting techniques. The Vienna members who worked on the quilt are: Judy Beach, Tommie Curtis, Delores Hanger, Bunnie Jordan, Lorraine Heady, Betty Ladd, Julie Riggles, Mary Ellen Simmons and Karla Vernon. Christy Dillon’s spectacular machine quilting is showcased in the abundant free space in the quilt. She used two different thread colors. This quilt is queen sized at 90” x 90”. The drawing for the quilt is on June 3 at 2:30, during our quilt show. Tickets will be sold at the quilt show all four days. Tickets are 6 for $5.00 or $1.00 apiece



2011-2012 COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Auction: Andrea Gribble
Auction Storage: Ro Coller
Community Outreach: Libby Dudley
Community Service: Lynn Miller
December Luncheon: Tammy Mannarino and Anne Poulin
June Luncheon: Nancy Barkume and Carol Allen
Greeter & Door Prizes: Ann Marlin
Challenge/Mystery: Pat Alfredson and Mary Mazzuchi
New Member Kits: Dotty Eisenhouer
Quilt Collector: Lynne Fishburn and Angie Miller
Hospitality: Barbara Dove
Fall Bus Trip: Andrea Gribble
Quilt Retreat:
2013 Quilt Raffle Design: Ro Coller and Pat Alfredson
QU Event(our job--run the boutique) if interested see Ruth or Ro
Audit: Mary Downey
Senior Center Rep: Mary Stauss
Sunshine: Barbara Zygiel

UPCOMING AREA SHOWS, EXHIBITS AND MORE
The Lancaster Quilt Museum, in Lancaster, PA, which houses the famous and wonderful Esprit quilt collection, will have to close it's doors. If you have not visited this impressive little museum, less than two hours away, you should take the opportunity before it's too late. For more information see http://lancasteronline.com/article/local/500910_Lancaster-Quilt---Textile-Museum-will-fold.html

Ongoing -- December 17, 2011 -- Virginia Quilt Museum-- "Unity in Diversity-- A collection from Country School Quilters" see www.vaquiltmuseum.org for more information.

FIBER ARTS SHOW AT THE WORKHOUSE ARTS CENTER - The Workhouse Arts Center is holding The Art of Fiber exhibition from November 23 - December 31, 2011. This national juried exhibition will display the beauty and creativity of the fiber arts in its many forms, including wearable art, sculpture, 2D pieces and accessories. The Workhouse Arts Center is located at 9601 Ox Road (Route 123) in Lorton

Ongoing --January 8, 2012--CLOTH RECYCLING EXHIBIT AT TEXTILE MUSEUM – "The Textile Museum has a wonderful exhibit upstairs called Second Lives: The Age-Old Art of Recycling Textiles. There are pieces from many different cultures and eras. The large red, black, and white pieced hanging from Afghanistan provides graphic impact, creativity, and attention to detail. The main exhibit is Weaving Abstraction: Kuba Textiles and the Woven Art of Central Africa on display through February 12, 2012. The Museum is at 2320 S. Street, NW, Wash., DC 20008. Call (202) 667-0441 or visit www.textilemuseum.org

January 27-28, 2012 - The Quilting and Needle Art Extravaganza, 9am – 5 pm, Statesville Civic Center, 300 South Center St. Statesville, NC 28677, Admission $5.00 For additional information call The Quilter’s Gallery, 704-376-2531 or 704-864-4894

February 23 - 26, 2012- - Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival XXIII, Hampton Roads Convention Center, Hampton, Virginia. For more information visit the “Greater Chesapeake Bay/Williamsburg Area. See www.quiltfest.com


Permanent Exhibit at the Virginia Quilt Museum in Harrisonburg, Va.
The Virginia Quilt Museum will feature an exhibit of quilts from the 1860s to honor the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. The Women Who Stayed Behind, Stories of Civil War Quilts and Their Makers, is funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Virginia Commission for the Arts and James McHone. The Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm at 301 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA. Parking in the municipal lot behind the museum is free. Phone 540-433-3818 for more information and for group tours.

UNDERGROUND RAILROAD QUILT
As part of the James Madison Museum's exhibit on the sesquicentennial anniversary of the Civil War, Ms. Jean Love has graciously loaned her recently made Underground Railroad Quilt. These quilts were used before and during the Civil War as secret codes that gave slaves directions for escaping to the North. These patterns were part of the Africans' tradition of recording their history by committing it to memory and passing it orally to subsequent generations. Come visit the museum and discover their story of escape! Also available in our gift shop are books by Tina Gravatt on miniature quilts, as well as books on other old world crafts. The Museum is located at 129 Caroline Street in the heart of downtown Orange, Virginia 540-672-1776, www.jamesmadisonmus.org

A new Art Quilt Gallery in the Big Apple The Art Quilt Gallery in New York city is a small gallery devoted entirely to art quilts on West 25th St. For more information check out their website http://artquiltgallerynyc.com .


Birthdays

December
12/4 Charlotte Read
12/8 Anne Poulin
12/17 Joyce Matherly
12/23 Barbara Jones
12/25 Mary Downey



January
1/3 Jeanette Hall
1/10 T. Carter
1/19 Ann Marlin
1/28 Joyce Nicholson
1/28 Dianne Tippins


Mt. Vernon Quilters Unlimited
Minutes of General Business Meeting on November 15, 2011
The meeting was called to order in “Bee Room 216” by Co-President Ruth Morgan at 12:35 p.m. Ruth welcomed members and guest Cindy Grimord, 2012 QU Quilt Show Chairman. With no corrections, the October Minutes stand as presented.

VP and Program Chair Carol Kunkel reported on the year’s programs and workshops to date, noting that Bethany Reynolds presented a sell-out workshop in October and a popular lecture. Bunnie Jordan will be at MVQU January 24 with a Civil War Trunk Show. Carol is taking sign-ups now for Jordan’s Jan. 25 workshop “Hit Parade of Quilting” to which members can bring one quilt for examination and discussion. Jean Ann Wright lectures on Feb. 28, followed by a workshop on Feb. 29 demonstrating her new technique found in “Circle of Nine Quilts,” a book written by Wright and her sister. In March, plans are to have a presentation by Laurette Koserowski, editor of Quilting Magazine. In April, Karen Stone will do a lecture and workshop. Sign-ups have begun for many of these workshops.

Treasurer Mary Mazzuchi reported the account balance was $15,725.70, including income from the November 1 auction and other contributions.

QU Fall Event: Co-President Ro Coller reported that around 5 MVQU members attended the October 15 evening event at NOVA Annandale, noting that MVQU reserved the venue, set up the room, made speaker arrangements, and supplied refreshments as part of its QU Matrix tasks for 2011-12. Susan Carlson of Maine presented a well-received lecture to approximately 70 attendees.

MVQU November 1 Auction Update: Chair Andrea Gribble reported current income, to date, of $8,130.25, noting that more might be received. Sixty-four people registered for paddles but more attended. She provided a separate sheet breaking out income for the various auction and sales sections. Andrea thanked all those who aided in making this a successful event. Those in attendance, in turn, acknowledged Andrea for her fine work.

Hospitality: Today’s hostesses were Joyce Keating and Colleen Griffin. October program meeting hostesses were Kay Brill, Angie Miller and Barbara Jones.

2013 QU Raffle Quilt: Co-Chair Pat Alfredson expressed a big “thank you” to all who supplied blocks for the quilt, particularly noting Patricia Bolton’s contribution of 80 blocks. The plan now is to start assembling the quilt over the holidays.

Nickel Exchange: Co-Chair Mary Mazzuchi said 25 participated in this month’s exchange and that December’s will have 29 participating in a black and white fabric exchange; details on the website. Bring the squares to the holiday luncheon. The January exchange will be announced then. Mary said ideas, kits, books, and magazines using nickel squares are online and in stores and libraries. Pat Speth’s website was recommended as a good place to start.

Holiday Quilt Challenge: Co-Chair Pat Alfredson reminded members that the challenge started in October and is due at the business meeting in February. Depict your favorite holiday – a real one or vacation or your interpretation. Note that the allowable circumference has changed – it is now 264 inches maximum (60”x72”); any size up to and including that is fine. It should be quilted and bound, and if it’s going in the QU Show, it should be “show ready” with a hanging sleeve and label (see QU website).

5th Tuesday Charity Workshop: Chair Lynn Miller invited all to participate in the Tuesday, November 29 workshop focusing on sewing kids’ backpacks for a nursing organization that will distribute them filled with supplies to young patients at area hospitals. A similar workshop took place in the 2010-11 year. She received Bethany Reynolds’ permission to adapt one of her patterns for this project. Lynn will send details of fabrics and supplies needed to all shortly. Event will be 10-3 in Room 216 at the Senior Center.

2012 Quilt Show Chairman Cindy Grimord encouraged members to participate in “owning the show” – get involved by volunteering, entering a quilt, and attending. There is no theme in 2012, instead the focus is on the chapters. Each has an aisle “endcap” to display the its banner and two 20x30 foamcore boards on which it can tell visitors about the chapter and its activities. She noted she has already volunteered to chair again in 2013 – QU’s Ruby (40th) Anniversary, when there may be a red and white challenge for members. Cindy said the QU Show is on Facebook with an address of ‘Quilters Unlimited of Northern Virginia Quilt Show 2012’ and that members can also get to the site through the regular website and can do posts on why they are putting a quilt in the show.

December Luncheon: Co-Chair Tammy Mannarino announced that the December 13th luncheon at 12:30 in Room 112 at Hollin Hall Senior Center will be a potluck with “Starry, Starry Night” as its theme. A sign-up sheet was passed for volunteers to assist with aspects of the event. A block raffle will be held using blue and white Ohio Stars made and brought by members. Bring Show and Tell related to the theme or projects being given away at the holidays, etc. Instead of a gift exchange, bring a gift-wrapped UFO completely enclosed in a grocery bag to exchange for another. You can complete your new UFO any way you wish. Details on the luncheon and its activities will be sent out shortly.

Mt. Vernon’s 2012 QU Show Boutique Responsibility: Ro Coller called for a MVQU member to step up to serve as chair of this QU show task. Ro and Ruth have been attending the QU show meetings; however a chair is needed immediately to handle details of conducting the boutique at the show. The 2011 show after-action report is available to review and provides information on the tasks involved. This is an important fund-raiser for all chapters, so please consider chairing. 2012 Boutique show volunteers get discounted entry and are recruited by QU Volunteer Committee. You can also step up to chair Mt. Vernon’s own Boutique Committee and manage items MV members will contribute for sale at the show.

Door Prizes: Chair Ann Marlin announced winner Barbara Jones, Lynn Dille, and Ro Coller.

Amended Inclement Weather Policy: Hollin Hall Senior Center has changed its policy:

--When Fairfax County Government Offices are closed: All senior centers will be closed. Mt. Vernon Quilters will not meet.

-- When Fairfax County Public Schools cancel classes for the day: Hollin Hall Center will be open for self-guided groups, such as Mt. Vernon Quilters. Senior center-sponsored programs, activities, transportation and lunch will be canceled.

--When Fairfax County Public Schools have a delayed opening: Hollin Hall will be open. No transportation and no lunch. All center-sponsored activities scheduled before 10:00AM are canceled. Mt. Vernon Quilters can still met.

--When Fairfax County Public Schools have an early release: Hollin Hall will remain open for self-guided groups such as Mt. Vernon Quilters. All center-sponsored activities scheduled after 12:00PM will be canceled.

There was a show of hands recommending that the December Luncheon be held regardless of the weather, unless, of course the government offices are closed due to a huge snowstorm that day.

Following Show and Tell, the meeting was adjourned at 2:12 pm by Co-President Ruth.

Respectfully submitted,
Jim Melton, Secretary

Note: Quilt blocks pictured with the articles are from allpeoplequilt.com. Patterns and instructions are available at the site

Please submit items to Mary Downey, MVQU Newsletter Editor, at mvqu.news@gmail.com. Because of the holiday, the deadline for the January newsletter is December 20, 2011.

OHIO STAR Pattern with White Star

When completed,

this block should measure 12 1/2" X 12 1/2"



Cutting Chart for One Ohio Star Quilt Block with WHITE STAR

White Fabric (Reads as a Solid)

Cut one 4-1/2" x 4-1/2" square for block center
Cut two 5-1/4" x 5-1/4" squares to make quarter-square triangle units

Blue Fabric (Reads as a Solid)

Cut four 4-1/2" x 4-1/2" squares for block corners
Cut two 5-1/4" x 5-1/4" squares to make quarter-square triangle units



To MAKE BASIC QUARTER-SQUARE TRIANGLE UNITS from HALF SQUARE UNITS© Janet Wickell

Choose a finished size for your quarter-square triangle units. Add 1-1/4" to the finished dimension and cut two contrasting squares with sides of that size.

Place white and blue fabrics (5 1/4" squares) right sides together, draw a diagonal line from corner to corner on the fabric and sew together with two seams placed 1/4" from each side of the drawn line, cut apart on the diagonal line and press to create two half-square triangle units.

Turn one half-square triangle unit to its reverse side and draw a diagonal line from one corner to another, placing it perpendicular to the seam. Position the two triangle-square units right sides together, with contrasting triangles facing each other. Align patch edges carefully. Sew together with two seams placed 1/4" from each side of the drawn line, the same method used to create the parent units. Cut the squares apart on the line, press units open and trim away triangular nubs at the ends of the seam allowances.

You now have two basic quarter-square triangle units.

To Assemble the Ohio Star Quilt Block
Make 4 basic quarter-square triangle units as noted above.
When you're finished, each completed quarter-square triangle unit should
measure 4-1/2" x 4-1/2".

Arrange the plain squares and the quarter-square triangle units into three rows, taking care to orient the triangle tips as shown above.

Sew the components of each row together. Press seam allowances towards the plain squares unless you feel the color shows through too much.

Sew the three rows together to complete the block, butting seams and matching patch edges. Press.

Your completed Ohio Star quilt block should measure 12-1/2" x 12-1/2". If your block is smaller than it should be, or skewed, press again and recheck.




Instructions can also be found at http://www.quilterscache.com/O/OhioStarBlock.html .

Note that these instructions do not use the quarter square triangle unit.

Chutney Chicken Salad and Cream Puffs

Chutney Chicken Salad

1 1/2 lbs. cooked, diced chicken (about 2 cups)

1 cup chopped celery

3 green onions, thinly sliced

1/2 cup slivered almonds

2 teaspoons finely minced fresh ginger

1 cup golden raisins

1/2 to 1 cup coconut

Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup sour cream

1/2 small jar mango chutney

1 Tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon curry powder

Place first seven ingredients in medium bowl. Mix dressing ingredients together and add to bowl. Mix together and refrigerate for at least an hour to let flavors blend.

Cream Puffs

2 cups water

1 cup butter

2 cups flour

8 eggs

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Bring water/butter to simmer. Add flour and whisk briskly. Add eggs.

Drop by 1/4 cupfuls on ungreased baking sheet.

Bake 35-40 minutes. Remove tops, scoop out goo and fill.

Makes 24.

November 2011 Newsletter

MVQU meets Tuesdays at 12:30pm in Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Road, Alexandria, VA 22308. For more information click here.

MOUNT VERNON CHAPTER OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE-2011-2012

Co-Presidents— Ruth Morgan and Ro Coller
Vice President/Programs— Carol Kunkel
Secretary— Jim Melton
Treasurer—Mary Mazzuchi
Nominating Chair— Libby Dudley
Newsletter—Mary Downey

Co-Presidents' Message

Hi, Quilters, Wow! October just flew by. We had our business meeting with a wonderful show and tell. What imagination our members have. The summer challenges were great--and they will be hanging at the Quilt Show in June along with the upcoming "favorite holiday" challenges. Everyone will be able to see the talent Mt. Vernon contains. The regular show and tell was a real inspiration. It's one of the reasons I love coming to the business meetings. Five of us went to the big QU Fall Event--Susan Carlson's trunk show/lecture at NOVA's Ernst Cultural Center on Saturday evening, October 15. We served the refreshments and a good time was had by all. Bethany Reynolds came to Mt. Vernon on Tuesday, October 25 and gave a trunk show and lecture depicting her quilt journey as a quilter, teacher and author. I have it on good authority that the workshop on Wednesday was lots of fun. Thanks, Carol, for filling the workshop, and thanks to Gigi Corbin and Lynn Eccleston for signing up this national speaker for us a year in advance. We have all seen some of the Auction items. Andrea has been teasing us with glimpses of some of the items that will be available on Tuesday, November 1. We hope this major fund raiser will be a big success. Make time to come and support Mt. Vernon. Thanks to all who contributed already and thanks in advance to all who will come and contribute by participating in the live auction, the silent auction, the chance auction, the buy-it-now table, the white elephant table and the bake table. We have so many great items and Christmas is just around the corner....not to scare anybody, but time does seem to just disappear when you are not looking. See you on November 1--remember, we are serving lunch, so come, eat, shop and bid.----- Ro

Vice-President's Message

We started our program year in September with Newbie Richardson, Costume and Textile Specialist presenting very exciting and informative lecture This is the Way to Wash our Clothes: the Layman’s Guide to Textile Conservation. After the lecture, MVQU members and guests were invited to share their family heirlooms and treasures to share with Newbie and the group. Newbie was most gracious in talking about each item, sharing information about what the item was, what it was made of, the era it was made and lastly how to care for it. Please enjoy sharing our journey through the past with Newbie through the pictures that follow.

__“Overwhelming Success!! Wonderful Presentation! Fabulous!!” were some of the many comments received after Bethany Reynolds visit to MVQU on Oct 25 & 26. Bethany Reynolds of Hancock, ME presented her Stack-n-Whack®-ipedia lecture and trunk show for MVQU members and guests from other guilds, providing great insight into the makings of a Stack-n-Whack® quilt. Bethany’s lecture was particularly interesting because she did not just tell family stories about her creations, she actually pointed out the particular technical components of the techniques used in each quilt that she showed. Bethany pointed out how she added half square triangles prior to combining blocks so that they went together quickly and easily. She showed how her technique made a difficult looking block come together easily, often removing inner Y seams. In addition to her technical expertise, Bethany kept the audience entertained with her humorous comments throughout her presentation. The fifty plus audience members were captivated. Several said they wished they had signed up for the workshop. The Sampler workshop was held on Wednesday the 26th at the Fairfax South County Center. Attendee’s ranged from MVQU members to visitors South as far as Richmond, VA and all the way North to Silver Spring, MD. The class was full and motivated. This workshop was chosen so that each participant went away knowing seven Stack-n-Whack® techniques. The varieties of fabrics chosen by the workshop participants made for a wonderful adventure in watching Stack-in-Whack® come alive. It is absolutely fascinating how one piece of fabric can combine into so many fascinating block combinations. The fabric play took a great deal of time. Each participant seemed to gravitate to their particular favorite technique, talking excitedly of the quilt they were creating. Many mentioned that Bethany resolved questions they had about the technique, ultimately realizing that with all of her tips, the technique was quite easy after all. Several workshop members got far enough along to pull out their machines. Future MVQU Show n’ Tell’s will reveal some fabulous results from this workshop!!-------Carol















___________________________________________________________

MVQU and Programs Remaining in 2011-2012
*NOVEMBER 1, 2011--MVQU ANNUAL AUCTION

*NOVEMBER 15, 2011 BUSINESS MEETING

*NOVEMBER 29, 2011--5TH TUESDAY COMMUNITY SERVICE WORKSHOP
December 13, 2011 Holiday Luncheon
January 10, 2012-- Business meeting
January 24, 2012--Bunnie Jordan, Civil War Trunk Show
January 25, 2012-- Bunnie Jordan Workshop: Hit Parade of Quilting
January 31, 2012--Community service workshop
February 14, 2012-- Business Meeting
February 28, 2012--Jean Ann Wright, Quilts in my Suitcase; The Life of a Traveling Quilt Editor
February 29, 2012-- Jean Ann Wright Workshop: Circle of Nine Quilts
March 13, 2012-- Business meeting
March 27, 2012--Lorette Koserowski, Quilt Book Review
April 10, 2012--Business meeting
April 24, 2012--Program TBA
April 30- May 3 --Spring Retreat
May 8, 2012--Business meeting
May 22, 2012--Mike Ellingsen: Machine Quilting on a traditional machine
May 29, 2012--Community service workshop
June--Big QU Quilt Show Boutique
June 12, 2012-- Year End Luncheon
PLEASE NOTE SOME OF OUR MEETING DATES HAVE CHANGED FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER BECAUSE OF THE NOVEMBER ELECTION.

2011-2012 Committee Chairs
Auction: Andrea Gribble
Auction Storage: Ro Coller
Community Outreach: Libby Dudley
Community Service: Lynn Miller
December Luncheon: Tammy Mannarino and Anne Poulin
June Luncheon: Nancy Barkume and Carol Allen
Greeter & Door Prizes: Ann Marlin
Challenge/Mystery: Pat Alfredson and Mary Mazzuchi
New Member Kits: Dotty Eisenhouer
Quilt Collector: Lynne Fishburn and Angie Miller
Hospitality: Barbara Dove
Fall Bus Trip: Andrea Gribble
Quilt Retreat: Gail Franchi
2013 Quilt Raffle Design: Ro Coller and Pat Alfredson
QU Event(our job--run the boutique): OPEN, if interested see Ruth or Ro
Audit: Mary Downey
Senior Center Rep: Mary Stauss
Sunshine: Barbara Zygiel



Mt. Vernon Quilt/Fund Raiser/Quilt Auctions/Hand Made Items/Bake Sale/Luncheon
Don’t forget - Lunch is served!!! – and while you’re having a delicious home-cooked lunch on Tues., November 1, 2011 (12:30p.m. - 4:00 p.m.) at the Mt. Vernon Chapter’s Annual Fund Raiser, think about how much fun you’ll have at our Live Auction, our Silent Auction, our Chance Auction, our Buy It Now Boutique with handmade items from our members, our Bake Sale with goodies, jams, jellies, and Sack Suppers for 2-4 people to take home with you (who wants to cook dinner when you have had SO MUCH FUN!), and our White Elephant table. We won’t tell anyone how much you spend with us, and if your husband calls, we promise to tell him you have had those items for YEARS! We want your money – we’ll earn your trust!!!!! Our event will be held at the Hollin Hall Senior Center, at 1500 Shenandoah Rd., Alexandria, VA 22308. We’ll save you a seat! Contact Andrea Gribble at andreagribble@hotmail.com for additional information.

Message for Community Outreach from Libby

Thanks go to Lynn Eccleston for lending quilts on display at Sherwood Regional Library in October and at the Hollin Hall office in October/November. Take a turn showing some of your work – we display different quilts each month at these two sites. If you have small lap/wall quilts or table-toppers ranging in size from about 36x36 to about 47x55 that you’d like to share, please contact Libby Dudley. There is no one in line right now, so step right up!



MESSAGE FROM OUR CHALLENGE/BOM.MYSTERY COMMITTEE: Pat and Mary
Nickel Fabric Exchange: We had 25 lovely fabrics turned in for the October exchange; thank you ladies! Join our next nickel block exchange in November. For those who want to participate we will have a sign-up sheet at our business meeting November 15 when the number of blocks needed will be announced. The exchange blocks should be turned in at or before the luncheon in December. November's theme is Black and White; fabrics should be either black or white solids or fabrics that read like a solid, or black and white prints either black background with white print or white background with black print. If you won't be at the November 15 meeting but want to participate contact either Pat Alfredson, 703 416 2718, pat.alfredson@verizon.net or Mary Mazzuchi, 703 960 0569 mazzuchimw@aol.com before November 15 to sign up in advance.

2013 Quilter's Unlimited Raffle Quilt Committee Update
Thanks to everyone who made and handed in the Bull’s Eye blocs for the 2013 QU Raffle Quilt. We have 195 blocks right now toward our goal of 260. Please keep them coming!
The block instructions are on the blog under BOM. If you have trouble downloading these, let Pat Alfredson know and she will print them out for you. Any washed batiks are all right -- the more variety the better. You can give them to any member of the quilt committee and they will be added to our quilt. The deadline is the Holiday Luncheon in December, but the sooner the better...................From the 2013 Raffle Quilt Committee.


We have talent on display--just in case you missed seeing these wonderful quilts--check out these beauties.

Kudoos to our members

-------------T. Carter for her two quilts at the Philadelphia Quilt Show:


"Tasunke" is an original creation. T. created "Tasunke"(the word for horse in the Lakota language) to honor native American people and celebrate horse culture. The Tasunke(horses) are ready for war, as their tails are tied and adorned with feather of the eagle or red-tailed hawk. The beautiful shades painted by nature's paint brush during sunrise and sunset inspired her color selections. This star quilt reminds me to be thankful for a new day.

"Grandma's House" is also an original design. She designed this quilt to preserve her humble heritage and honor the elders of her family hoping to evoke memories and joy. Her grandpa immigrated to Mt. Lake, Minnesota, a small town on the prairie--from Dreispitz, Russia and built this homestead in 1901. She recreated it as historically accurate as possible drawing from photos and living memory. All that remains today--the last physical witness of the Schriock Homestead--is a stump of the big Cottonwood tree. Both quilts were machine pieced, machine appliqued, and machine quilted.


-------------Barbara Dove, Dotty Eisenhour, Lynne Fishburn and Trish Nicholson for their quilts that were on display at the St. Francis Episcopal Church Quilt Show "Threads of Color" October 1, 2011. All the quilts in the show were gorgeous.



Barbara's "Tranquil Transitions" is an original design and was inspired by a photo taken on a visit to Germany. It shows the season changing from Fall to Winter on the shores of a mountain lake. Techniques include fusible applique and machine quilting.







Dotty's "Chinese Coins and Log Cabin" is a pattern from the book "Westminster" by Kaffe Fassett. The quilt is machine pieced and hand quilted.



Lynne's "A Mt. Vernon Thank You" quilt was given to her as a thank you for being President of Mt. Vernon QU from 2010-2011. The Scrappy X blocks were made by the members. The quilt was pieced by Lynn Eccleston and Gigi Corbin and quilted by Angie Miller with a design Feather Meander.





"Columbines" was machine appliqued and machine quilted by Trish. She appliqued a two foot square top in preparation for a free-motion quilting class with Ann Fahl. The blossoms were enlarged from "A Captivating Columbine" pattern by Bee Creative Studio but were rearranged for the square format because the pattern was rectangular. She used Stuart Gill paints to highlight the inner petals and (later, after quilting) perle cotton to hand-embroider the stamens. Her fills included ferns, leaves, flowers, hearts and a dragonfly.





-------------and Kathy Edwards and Kris Bishop for their entries in the "Power Suit Challenge" displayed at Artisan Artifacts, 4350 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, Va. This show is still on going--so stop by and see these wonderful quilts.

Kathy tells us: "I immediately thought of a deck of cards when I heard the word 'Suit.' It might have been because of the number of card games I was playing with my grandson while school was out this summer. I've always thought the Ace of Spades was the most powerful card in the deck, but since I didn't wear a suit, I selected the King of Spades to depict a Power Suit. Pieced shirt background, collaged suit fabric pieces for clothes, hand-drawn face and hands on suit fabric, bead embellishments, and tie for binding.





Kris Bishop's entry stated: "He can leave the board room and go directly to the back room to a poker game and still be a 'winner' in both places wearing his 'power suit.' He is the winner with a 'royal flush.' My quilt is very streamlined and reserved, just like the impressions you get from the wonderful suiting fabrics. I used the suiting fabrics with cotton. It is machine pieced and quilted."

2012 Raffle Quilt
The 2011-12 raffle quilt is named “Virginia Beauty.” The Vienna Raffle Quilt Team will be in contact with each QU chapter to bring the raffle quilt to their chapter meeting to sell tickets. Once the professional photographs are completed, our website will be updated to picture this quilt along with ticket sales information. Karla Vernon designed “Virginia Beauty” using EQ7 software with an outer border block named “Jamestown Square” to reflect the Virginians who made this quilt. Appliquéd vines, leaves, and flowers, and a paper-pieced center star reveal different quilting techniques. The Vienna members who worked on the quilt are: Judy Beach, Tommie Curtis, Delores Hanger, Bunnie Jordan, Lorraine Heady, Betty Ladd, Julie Riggles, Mary Ellen Simmons and Karla Vernon.
Christy Dillon’s spectacular machine quilting is showcased in the abundant free space in the quilt. She used two different thread colors. This quilt is queen sized at 90” x 90”. The drawing for the quilt is on June 3 at 2:30, during our quilt show. Tickets will be sold at the quilt show all four days. Tickets are 6 for $5.00 or $1.00 apiece



UPCOMING CALENDAR EVENTS AT MVQU

• November 1, 2011--MVQU Annual Auction
• November 8, 2011--(Election Day) Bee 12:30pm
• NOVEMBER 15, 2011 BUSINESS MEETING
• November 22, 2011 Bee 12:30PM
• NOVEMBER 29, 2011--5TH TUESDAY COMMUNITY SERVICE WORKSHOP
• December 13, 2011 Holiday Luncheon

Upcoming Area Shows, Exhibits and More

Ongoing -- December 17, 2011 -- Virginia Quilt Museum-- "Unity in Diversity-- A collection from Country School Quilters" see www.vaquiltmuseum.org for more information.

November 3, Haymarket Guild Auction, 6:30-9PM, Evergreen Volunteer Fire Dept. 3510 James Madison Hwy. Haymarket, Virginia

November 9, Burke Guild Auction, 7:30 PM, Cherry Run Elementary School, 9732 Ironmaster Dr., Burke, Va. 22015

November 9-13, 2001, Maryland and Virginia Quilter's Quest, Wed through Saturday 9Am-6PM and Sun. Noon- 4PM. For more information see http://www.quiltersquest.org/

November 15, Springfield Guild Auction, 9:30 AM, Greater Springfield Volunteer Fire Dept., 7011 Backlick Rd, Springfield, Va.

November 19, Fairfax Guild Auction, 10 AM, St. Peters In the Woods Episcopal Church, 5911 Fairview Woods Drive, Fairfax Station VA

Permanent Exhibit at the Virginia Quilt Museum in Harrisonburg, Va.
The Women Who Stayed Behind: Stories of Civil War Quilts and Their Makers The Virginia Quilt Museum will feature an exhibit of quilts from the 1860s to honor the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. The wives, mothers and daughters who watched their men leave to fight stayed at home to carry on daily life. In addition, they sewed for the army, cared for the wounded and protected property and family. Surviving Civil War quilts made in Virginia are rare and very unusual.
The Civil War era quilts in this exhibit are part of the collection preserved by the Virginia Quilt Museum. The Virginia Quilt Museum is located in the home built in 1856 by Edward T. H. Warren for his wife, Virginia Magruder Warren. During the war the house was used as a hospital. Mrs Warren lost her husband, father and three brothers to the Southern cause. Two other brothers were severely wounded. Through all of this she stayed behind and did her part caring for her children and others. The Women Who Stayed Behind, Stories of Civil War Quilts and Their Makers, is funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Virginia Commission for the Arts and James McHone. The Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm at 301 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA. Parking in the municipal lot behind the museum is free. Phone 540-433-3818 for more information and for group tours.

Virginia Quilt Museum Christmas Ornaments Update
A huge thank you to all the quilters who made and mailed Christmas ornaments to the Quilt Museum! Your generosity and creativity is greatly appreciated. We received over 150 ornaments for the Christmas in July Contest. They were all sizes, up to 6 inches, some embellished with beads and buttons, all very unique.
The ornaments were displayed in the lower level of the Museum until October 15 when the votes made by visitors were counted. The ornament made by Jan Hood of Woodstock, VA, had the highest number of votes and won first place. She won a $25 gift certificate to be redeemed in the Museum Gift Shop. The creations of Patricia Bender from Shipman, VA and Loreen Ellis from Herndon VA tied for second place. They each received a $15 gift certificate. Third place and a $10 gift certificate went to Betty Marshall of Barboursville, VA.
Many of these Christmas ornaments had “sold” tags on them before they were moved to the gift shop. Visitors are very excited about buying such beautiful handmade in the USA gifts and decorations. All the money from the sale of the ornaments will be used to support the Museum.
As you see ideas, fabric and notions on sale and make you own ornaments this year, set aside one or two for next year’s Christmas in July at the Virginia Quilt Museum! Visitors will be asking for them next year. -----------------Josephine Millett, Chairman of the Museum Shop Committee

UNDERGROUND RAILROAD QUILT
As part of the James Madison Museum's exhibit on the sesquicentennial anniversary of the Civil War, Ms. Jean Love has graciously loaned her recently made Underground Railroad Quilt. These quilts were used before and during the Civil War as secret codes that gave slaves directions for escaping to the North. These patterns were part of the Africans' tradition of recording their history by committing it to memory and passing it orally to subsequent generations. Come visit the museum and discover their story of escape! Also available in our gift shop are books by Tina Gravatt on miniature quilts, as well as books on other old world crafts. To contact the James Madison Museum please call 540-672-1776. We are located at 129 Caroline Street in the heart of downtown Orange VirginiaMeredith WoutersPrograms Coordinator for The James Madison Museum 129 Caroline St. Orange VA 22960540-672-1776540-672-0231 (fax)http://www.jamesmadisonmus.org



Birthdays

November
11/1 Hedy Vann
11/7 Kathleen Shaw
11/09 Colleen Griffin
11/14 Lynn Eccleston
11/15 Barbara Zygiel
11/20 Dotty Eisenhour
11/23 Ann Steck
11/24 Tammy Mannarino
11/26 Beverly Krysa

December
12/4 Charlotte Read
12/8 Anne Poulin
12/17 Joyce Matherly
12/23 Barbara Jones
12/25 Mary Downey

Mt Vernon QU October 11, 2011 Business Meeting Minutes:

Ruth Morgan opened the meeting at 12:35PM

Approval of Minutes: The September meeting minutes were approved with the following correction each instance of "Hollin Hill" was corrected to read "Hollin Hall".

Officer Reports:

Vice-President Carol Kunkel reported that the Bethany Reynolds workshop was full and it would be held at the South Government Center at 8350 Richmond Hwy. There is free parking behind the building.

Ro Coller reminded us that Susan Carlson, an art quilter, is the speaker at big QU event this Saturday, 7PM at NOVA on Little River Turnpike and that MVQU was responsible for refreshments. Directions were handed out to those thinking of attending. Carpooling was suggested.

Membership and Treasurer: Gigi Corbin has stepped down and Mary Mazzuchi has graciously stepped in and will act as treasurer for the rest of the year. Mary reported that our guild's treasury stands at. $9045.46.

Ro announced that an ad hoc Fiscal Committee was established comprising Gail Franchi, Kathy Edwards, Lynne Fishburn, Beth Smith, Joyce Keating, Gigi Corbin and Marianne Urban.

Committee Reports:

Auction by Andrea and Ro: Lunch would be served. Some items, batik, blocks, baskets, buttons, coffee cans, etc. were still needed. A flyer was distributed giving all the details of the auction. Everyone was encouraged to invite friends and neighbors.

Bus Trip--Andrea Gribble reported that the bus for the Pennsylvania National Quilt Extravaganza was a success. She reported that 13 non MVQU members joined us and paid the non member price, $60. We had good feedback. She recommended that next year everyone pay the same price.

Hospitality Chair -- Barbara Dove thanked Nancy Barkume, Carol Allen and Mary Downey for their providing hospitality today.

2012 Raffle quilt: Pat Alfredson reported that she had 175 blocks out of the 260 needed.

Nickel Exchange: Mary Mazzuchi reported that there were 22 members in the exchange and that the fall colors were distributed. A sign up sheet for the next exchange was available.

Charity Workshop--Lynn Miller announced that it would be November 29 and that we would be making backpacks.

Christmas Luncheon: Tammy Mannarino and Anne Poulin announced that our December 3 luncheon would be a pot luck at the center. Help would be needed for set up and everyone should bring a dish of their choice.

Door prizes were given to Lynn Eccleston, Tammy Mannarino and Carol Kunkel.

Our Summer Challenge--"Walk on the Wild Side" and our Regular Show and Tell followed.(for pictures of the quilts and projects see our blog)

Announcements:

• Ruth reminded everyone that the auction was Novemeber 1 and that our business meeting would be November 15.
• Ruth mentioned the Kaleidoscope quilt exhibit at City Hall in Old Town Alexandria
• Ruth also mention that the Virginia quilt museum in Harrisonburg, Virginia had a showing of Civil War quilts as part of the 150th commemoration of that conflict.
• Kathy Edwards mentioned and invited everyone to see the "Power Suit" challenge at Artisan Artifacts.
• Pat Alfredson announced the next challenge would be a "Holiday challenge" and is due the first week of February, 2012.

The meeting adjourned at 2:50 PM

Respectfully submitted,
Jim Melton, Secretary


Please submit items to Mary Downey, MVQU Newsletter Editor, at mvqu.news@gmail.com The deadline for the December newsletter is November 23, 2011.