Members enjoyed the Dec. 14 brunch at Orlando’s  in South County.  Sara Ruiz, Executive Director of the Ashrei Foundation, updated us on the work of the Missouri State ID Access Coalition. She's pictured above with Karen Francis and Nancy Price.

Ruiz stressed that 26 million adults in America don’t have an ID. A government-issued photo ID is needed not only to vote in Missouri, but to get medical care, food stamps, housing and other federal assistance. Ashrei is working to remove systemic barriers so “ALL Missourians can access accurate, state-issued photo identification in order to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.” Check out her slides on Missouri photo ID or click here to watch a video of her presentation.

The League also recognized Linda McDaniel, who will be moving to Washington State in January. Linda's League leadership includes serving as President of the North County League, President of the Missouri League, First Vice President of LWVUS, and Co-President of the Metro St. Louis League. She played a lead role in fighting for fair maps after each Census and against strict photo ID requirements.

Many members gave a donation or brough a children's book to donate to Ready Readers.

Pictured below are Victoria Turner with Linda Hanson, K Wentzien with Mary Brown, Patty Egan and Jill Brown, Joan Hubbard, Jennifer and Mark Shylanski at the buffet, Neva Sprung with Kathy Kane, Julie Behrens, Linda McDaniel, Diane Kasten and Angela Janik, Judith Smart and Kathleen Farrell, Debby Howard accepting a door prize, and Julie Gaebe with Otto Brown.