[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 62 (Tuesday, May 7, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E727]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              TRIBUTE TO BETHESDA-CHEVY CHASE BRANCH AAUW

                                 ______


                       HON. CONSTANCE A. MORELLA

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 7, 1996

  Mrs. MORELLA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in this Chamber to honor the 
Bethesda-Chevy Chase [B-CC] branch of the American Association of 
University Women [AAUW] on the occasion of their 50th anniversary.
  The first 50 members of B-CC AAUW were installed by Maryland AAUW 
president, Mrs. C.L. Everson, on May 20, 1946, at the Woman's Club of 
Bethesda clubhouse. The first president of the local group was Mrs. 
Noble Boaz.
  The members of the B-CC branch quickly established study groups that 
reflected their interests and diversity, and after only 1 year, began a 
newsletter that has, to this day, maintained the same format. At first, 
the branch was involved in local affairs that affected the community 
and the schools. AAUW members closely followed the proposed policies of 
candidates for the school board and the county council, and often 
volunteered for various county boards and commissions. During the 
1950's, AAUW had attained important influence in the community, 
affecting decisions regarding teacher recruitment and salaries in the 
local schools.
  Over the years, the programs at the monthly meetings of the local 
branch have covered every conceivable subject, from outer space to 
foreign affairs. These programs are indicative of the interest of the 
members in the pursuit of knowledge. Many programs have centered on 
various aspects of art, books, and science, again reflecting the 
talents and interests of the membership in education.
  Scholarship has always been high on the AAUW agenda, and the B-CC 
branch began raising money to help students obtain a higher education. 
In February 1949, the organization held a fellowship tea at the Iranian 
Embassy. Admission was $1.50. Soon after, several bridge groups were 
begun as a way to raise money for scholarships. Members also held 
fashion shows, art auctions, yard sales, and book and author luncheons.
  This year, members are focusing on conducting workshops that address 
gender equity. The B-CC branch is particularly interested in promoting 
women in math and science, and established a contest for high school 
girls to suggest scientific careers.
  Mr. Speaker, the B-CC branch of AAUW has a long and proud history of 
advocacy for the equality of all women. The members of this esteemed 
group, since the beginning, have challenged injustice and 
discrimination in society. I am proud to pay tribute to the B-CC branch 
of AAUW for 50 years of dedication and service that has enabled women 
to enjoy the benefits of the Nineties. I congratulate Frances Cressman, 
Thelma Feld, Barbara Hively, Frances Dellon, Ellen Gillis, Inge Baer, 
Alice Dixon, and Louis Peltier, who make up the board of directors, as 
well as all of the wonderful members of the B-CC branch on this 
milestone anniversary. These AAUW members are long-distance runners for 
equality and social justice, and I wish them continued success for the 
future.

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