The Otto Kaiser Memorial Hospital Auxiliary held its’ monthly business meeting Thursday, Feb. 7 with 17 members present. President Emma Villanueva called the meeting to order at 9:30 am in the Hospital Board Room. Monthly reports were presented by officers as well as standing and appointed committee members. Included was an annual report of net-sales for year-end presented by Treasurer Patsy Marchant.

Vice President Margie Pierce reported that a total of 7170 hours of volunteer service had been performed by the auxiliary members during the year 2012. These hours represent an increase of 1,142 hours over the previous year.

Of special note was the report of Ways and Means Committee member, Joyce Janssen, concerning the upcoming Spring Jewelry Sale. This is the first of three sales planned for the year. Although we call it a Jewelry Sale don’t let the name fool you. Jewelry, yes, and lots of it. But did you know there are also purses, tote bags, toys for children, glasses, sunglasses, cell phone holders, manicure sets, scarves and on and on. There are always new items to surprise and delight us. And something for everyone: men, women, boys and girls. With Easter, Mother’s Day, and graduations coming up, it’s the perfect place to do some shopping. The sale is scheduled for Monday, March 4 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Tuesday, March 5 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mark your calendars and pass the word. We hope to see you there.

During the Jewelry Sale, the new Spring Baskets lap quilt being raffled will be presented and on display in the Gift Shop. The quilt features embroidered baskets of flowers on a pale yellow tone-on-tone background. Tickets are $1.00 each or 6 tickets for $5.00. The drawing for this quilt will be held during the Bluebonnet Days Celebration in May. Come and take your chance!

All proceeds from our fund-raising events directly benefit the Otto Kaiser Memorial Hospital. Thank you in advance for your continued support of Auxiliary efforts.

Attention graduating seniors! President Villanueva has appointed 3 members to the Scholarship Committee. They are Joyce Janssen, Laura Gamez and JoAnn Slane. These members will be coordinating with the 4 area High Schools (Kenedy, Karnes City, Runge and Falls City) in awarding $400 scholarships to a graduating senior who may be interested in pursuing further education and a career in any health care related field. Please contact you school counselor for specifics in applying for this scholarship. Applications should be submitted by April 1. Awards will be given in early May.

And, we wish to extend a hearty welcome to our newest members, Gina Vela and Sylvia Aguero, who visited with us at our January meeting.

Our next business meeting will be Thursday, March 7, at 9:30 a.m. in the Hospital Board Room.