President Joan Raum convened the meeting at Mary Trobaugh’s home and heartily welcomed Veta back. The attendance was nearly perfect, with 23 members answering roll call and 3 members excused. Joan shared Cheryl Darby’s “Spring and the Great Reveal,” which described the annual duties disclosed by the warm sun’s brightness, first inside and then outside. The Secretary’s report was read and accepted. Beth Wegner, Gladbrook’s Head Librarian, sent a note thanking Alpha Study Club for its donation to the Summer Reading Program. The Treasurer reported that a few remaining fees need to be collected; the report was also accepted. Pauline presented a bill for Librarians’ Valentines. Old Business: The Social Committee reported that our Spring Fling on May 10 will be to The Gathering Place in Iowa Falls. Rides and Riders signed up to meet at the Methodist Church, with departure at 10 a.m. Our meals will cost $8.50 plus drinks. New Business: Veta was granted a Leave of Absence for the coming year, with our very best wishes. Pat Goos, incoming President, passed out the Committee Assignments for 2016-2017. The Business meeting ended when Joan presented some witty thoughts about Aging. Shirley Young of the Program Committee introduced Maxine Schoel’s book review. “Destiny of the Republic” by Candice Millard is a narrative about a largely forgotten segment of American history. This is the story of how a remarkable man, James Garfield, was elected President of the United States, only to die of complications of a gunshot fired by a mentally challenged, disgruntled member of the opposition. This book was remarkably written and very well researched. Covering the relationships Garfield had with Alexander Graham Bell and Robert Todd Lincoln, among others, Millard brings to life these people who were important to him. The reader remains intrigued through the final pages that tell of the suffering Garfield endured during the last two months of his life. Mary and her helpers served delightful refreshments of Fruit Salad, Blueberry Dessert, Candies, Nuts and Drinks.