The popularity of the AAUW Manhattan branch’ s Serendipity interest group is attributed to the exciting diversity of the monthly luncheon programs and opportunity to socialize with members in a relaxed atmosphere. The meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of each month. This interest group is full of  “delightful surprises.” Claudia Jones is the chair of the group, but to keep it “serendipitous,” members sign up about once a year to host a meeting and select a topic and luncheon location. It is an excellent compliment to the more issue-based programs at the monthly branch meetings.

Seated L to R: Helen Janes, Marilyn Bunyan, Claudia Jones, and Lois Deyoe. Standing: Joan Strickler, Elsie Hall, Mary O’Laughlin, Florence Schwab, Jan Freeby and Helen Whiteman. Members not present: Vadaline Strohm and Karen Tinkler.

The friendly atmosphere was readily apparent at the January 28th meeting. Members highlighted their enthusiasm for Serendipity, which has been meeting for over 25 years. “People just come,” Marilyn Bunyan stated, and Helen Janes added, “you don’t have to study – just show up and you get to enjoy a variety of restaurants!” Claudia commented “it is a wonderful venue for getting to know branch members and guests.” “We meet and enjoy each other,” said Jan Freeby.

A wide range of topics are presented, which make the meetings very exciting! Examples mentioned were Karen Tinkler’ s talk on “dog breeders and dog kennels” and “how to dye fabrics in the snow” by the area quilter Harriet Janke. K- State faculty and students often come and talk about issues and projects of interest.

Kayla Harwood, K-State Student

Kayla Harwood, a graduate student living at Meadowlark Hills for the semester, spoke briefly at the meeting about her project in Digital Ethnography. She and five class- mates will be observing and interviewing residents for an anthropological documentary.
Seated L to R:  Helen Janes, Marilyn Bunyan, Claudia Jones, and Lois Deyoe. Standing: Joan Strickler, Elsie Hall, Mary O’Laughlin, Florence Schwab, Jan Freeby and Helen Whiteman. Members notpresent: Vadaline Strohm and Karen Tinkler.

Polly Ferrell talks on Kansas Day.

After enjoying a luncheon with engaging conversation, Polly Ferrell, a retired K-State home economist and popular area speaker, gave a delightful talk on Kansas Day, which commemorates the state’s admission into the Union on January 29, 1861. “People all over the state love Kansas!” Polly stated. She traced the state’s history, symbolism in the flag, and how yellow sunflower trails were created when wagon wheels dropped seeds as they moved across the prairie. Polly concluded with an interesting quiz on the official state animals, plants, and song.

So for “fortuitous happenstance,” fun and friendship, attend one of the upcoming Serendipity luncheon meetings. Locations change monthly, so be sure to contact Claudia Jones  (interiors1@cox.net, 785-537-4442) for details.