In the afternoon of Saturday September 23, 2023, at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum (MVM) in Vineyard Haven, the League of Women Voters – Marthas’ Vineyard (LWV-MV) sponsored a new member tea and honored long time member, Leigh Smith. LWV-MV member, Kristi Strahler welcomed attendees and provided opening remarks. LWV-MV member Deborah Medders shared Leigh Smith’s 50+ years active membership in LWV-NJ and then on Martha’s Vineyard, honoring her commitment to the League.
Prospective members were invited to the MVM to learn about the history of the LWV-MV. MVM’s Research Librarian, Bow Van Riper, a former university level history professor, gave an enlightening history peppered with humorous anecdotes on how the current league’s predecessor, The Tisbury Women’s Association, started in 1933, The name changed to the LWV-MV in the mid 1950s, as the Association included members from all over the island. This history allowed prospective members to become more familiar with the League’s goals. Mr. Van Riper reminded the group that although the League is well known to be non-partisan, it did not mean the League was apolitical. One such issue in 1933 sounds familiar to us today: more transparency in government.
Refreshments were provided at the end of program, allowing League members to chat with prospective members and to answer their questions about the local League.
Kristi Strahler welcomes the attendees and provides opening remarks as honoree, Leigh Smith, listens.
Deborah Medders relates honoree Leigh Smith’s more than 50 year history as a member of the LWV
MVM Research Librarian, Bow Van Riper shares the history of the LWV-MV
LWV-MV member, Joy Thoma (L) and guest, Elizabeth Foster-Nolan, co-president of the LWV-MA
Attendee Tony Kauffman (L) and LWV-MV member Dr. Lorna Andrade
LWV-MV member Ken Armstead (L) and attendee Sophia Scarano