Holiday Luncheon 
Contact us to be on waitlist.
Third Thursdays Programs & General Meetings
First Baptist Church
8100 N. Madison Ave. NE
9:30 AM - Social
10:00 AM - Program
11:00 AM-11:30 AM - General Meeting
11:45 AM - optional post-meeting luncheon
Location TBD
November Monthly MeetingThursday, November 16thIt is our privilege to welcome as our November Speaker, Barbara Lawrence, Suquamish Tribal Elder and traditional storyteller. Suquamish storytelling is a traditional way of teaching for all ages. Barbara has a passion for and a depth of knowledge of Suquamish and Coast Salish history, culture politics, archeology, social justice, environmental racism, and contemporary tribal issues. She received a BA from Evergreen College and an MBA in Sustainable Business from the Bainbridge Graduate Institute. Lawrence has served on many Washington State Advisory Boards, bridging tribal and state governmental interests, including helping establish the Canoe Journeys program. She is the Education Outreach Specialist for the Suquamish Tribal Education Administration Department and a curriculum staff member for the Since Time Immemorial project. Barbara Lawrence was raised on the Suquamish Port Madison Indian Reservation. Her father Charles Russell Lawrence, was Chairman of the Suquamish Tribe, and her mother, Anne Roselynn Berg Lawrence, was first generation Norwegian-American. She is a mother to four children and Kiyah to twelve grandchildren and one great-grandchild. |
BIWC HOLIDAY LUNCHEONContact us to be on waitlist.THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2023Kiana Lodge 14976 Sandy Hook Rd NE, Poulsbo, WA 98370 Festivities begin at 11:30 AM with a no host bar, followed by luncheon at 12 noon. Donations for Helpline House are accepted with gratitude! Holiday Buffet Menu
Don't let navigating a Buffet comfortably keep you from attending. We will have happy helpers ready to assist. $40 per person includes tax/gratuity AND a nonalcoholic beverage. Guests welcome.
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Interested in Joining a Book Club?We are happy to announce that a new book club is being formed. Thank you to those individuals who have already reached out. If you are interested in helping to organize and participate in a book club, please send me an email, and I will add your name to the list. We will soon be setting up an organizational meeting to nail down the details as to how you want your book club to operate. Stay tuned for further details. In the meantime, all interested book lovers are encouraged to consider the No Book Book Club. No required reading. Instead, participants share book titles that they have enjoyed and recommend. As always, check out our other activity offerings by clicking the red "Camaraderie" button at the top. |
HELPLINE HOUSE
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BIWC members have outdone themselves! Not only did we donate 51lbs of food and household products, we donated a grand total of $501!!
Let's keep doing what we're doing in November and "outdo" October! 🙂
At our next general meeting, remember to:
- Purchase raffle tickets for a local women-owned/run business gift card! (cash or check accepted). 100% of ticket sales go to Helpline House
- Bring a check payable to Helpline House or non-perishable food/household items to the meeting--we'll deliver for you!
No updates have been made to Helpline's website yet, so it looks like they are still in need of:
- cat food
- bars of soap
- canned chicken or salmon
- jam/jelly
- non-dairy milk
- dry milk
We look forward to seeing you at the Outreach table soon.
Upcoming Events
January General Meeting
1/18/24
Details to follow ......
COVID 19 POLICY
- All BIWC General Meetings, program presentations, activity groups, and any other BIWC-affiliated event shall follow the mandates and recommendations of regulatory agencies as they pertain to Covid 19 current to the specific date of each event. This may result in cancellations, venue changes, social distancing, masks, and/or other safety measures.
- We respect the decisions of members to participate or not within their comfort zone.
- We ask that members or guests who have not been vaccinated or are feeling unwell not participate in in-person indoor or outdoor events.
Recent Events
November General Meeting
11/16/23
Details above ......
Wednesday Walkers Activity Group
November Coffee
General Meeting - October 19th
October Monthly Meeting
Our last meeting was a success with almost 50 members coming to hear about Island Volunteer Caregivers. We were fortunate to learn how IVC works within our community to support the needs at no cost to seniors and people with special needs. They have piloted a Wellness Program aimed at combating loneliness and isolation.
October Happy Hour
Wednesday, Oct 11th at 3:00 PM
Bainbridge Brewing Alehouse
500 Winslow Way E.
Wine, beer, cider, and soft drinks are available for purchase and outside food may be brought into the Alehouse.
There is a parking lot below BIMA. Come and visit with new friends and old friends.
We hope to see you there!
General Meeting - September 21st
The kick-off meeting on September, 21st was amazing. Approximately 40 members enjoyed the program by Melissa Arias, Executive Director and CEO for The Washington and Alaska Make-A-Wish Foundation. Melissa spoke to us about the Make-A-Wish Foundation's history and the undeniable impact it has on children, their families, and their medical outcomes. Bainbridge Island volunteer Robin Warsaw explained the role of local volunteers and shared stories close to home. Thank you, our programs committee, for bringing her and her heartwarming presentation.
Some Golf Activity Group members enjoying a beautiful day
The Spicy Ladies Activity Group dining out in September
Special Pop-Up Event - SEPTEMBER 19th
On Tuesday, September 19th at 4:00 PM, our very own fiber artist, Roberta Nelson, was showcased throughout the tasting room at Fletcher Bay Winery in Winslow. Roberta invited the group to explore her creations of fiber, fabric, and metal, sip a beverage, and share conversation.
Soil Sisters Activity Group - Private Tour of Fern Garden - SEPTEMBER 15th
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SUMMER SOIRÈE - Thursday August 24th
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BIWC's Annual Summer SoiréeThursday, August 24th 3:00-5:00 PM |
Coffee & ART at BIMA
Thursday, August 17th at 10:00 AM
Join the Pop-Up Activity Group for Bainbridge Island Museum of Art’s Spotlight, a juried exhibition of work by 150 artists from the Puget Sound region. You will recognize several artists from Kitsap County including two paintings from one of our own BIWC members. The diversity of media is an absolute “WOW!”
There should be plenty of parking in the lower BIMA lot, as well as in garage under the building
Meet at BIMA Bistro for a morning beverage and socializing at 10 AM on Thursday August 17, followed by an independent stroll through the art museum about 11 AM.
August Coffee
Wine HAPPY HOUR - Tuesday July 25th
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Fletcher Bay CoppertopTuesday, July 25th from 3:30 to 5:00 pmA great way to keep up with friends, old and new, this summer. |
General Meeting - Thursday May 18th
"Creativity is never a straight predictable road" Susan Wiggs |
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Photo by Susan Doupe |
Our May speaker is Bainbridge Island’s own Susan Wiggs, a New York Times Best Selling author who is known for her novels that are inspired by her stubbornly held belief in the robustness of the human spirit in the face of adversity. She will share her latest novel, “Sugar and Salt” with us. Since 1987, she has written about two books a year. On becoming a writer, she admits “It was never something I wanted. It’s just something that I knew I was.” Don’t miss this fascinating presentation by one of the country’s favorite authors. Bring your favorite Wiggs' book to be autographed, and a guest to share this last speaker of the BIWC year with. |
May Coffee
Wednesday, May 3rd at 10:30 AM
COQUETTE BAKE SHOP is now open! Let’s all meet for coffee and catch up!
Its New Location is 140 Winslow Way West.
See you all there.
Wednesday Walkers meet up with BIWC coffee social at Coquette Bake Shop
Potluck Luncheon - Thursday April 20th
It’s our annual Pot Luck Luncheon April 20th at 11am
Plan to join us on April 20th as we present our club’s monetary donation to two of the charities that presented to our club this year.
Please bring a dish that you love to make and eat, along with a list of its ingredients.
Make sure that it’s in a ready-to-serve container along with the utensils needed to serve it and a trivet if the dish is hot.
NOTE: We will not have any way to either heat up or keep warm the food.
Looking forward to seeing everyone and their delicious treats!!
Having Fun in Activity Groups
March General Meeting - March 16th
Dr. Jeannette Franks
Intentional Aging
Jeannette Franks, Ph.D, shares decision-making strategies on how to age well, with purpose and joy! Dr. Franks is a passionate activist, author, and gerontologist who taught courses on geriatrics and gerontology at the University of Washington for 25 years.
Stock up your personal toolbox with practical tips for living your best life! Check out her website, where you will learn more about Jeannette and her new book Intentional Aging: 7 Practical Actions to Live Well and Minimize the Risk of Dementia which is available at EH Books. https://
February General Meeting - February 16th
Kitsap Animal Rescue and Education (KARE)
Dianne Cannafax is co-founder of Kitsap Animal Rescue and Education (KARE), a non-profit organization offering a wide range of services: animal rescue, fostering, adoption; grants for medical and educational needs, and an annual chicken camp for owners and their chickens! KARE collaborates with other agencies, including a new partnership with local law enforcement to provide emergency shelter for homeless persons and their pets. Dianne is bringing another trainer, plus a four-legged friend.
Winter Social at Sisters' Cider House - Wednesday, January 25th @ 3:30pm
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Good turnout. Lots of fun warming up a bleak winter afternoon with our BIWC sisters at Sisters’ Cider House.
Sipping cider (with or without alcohol), socializing and enjoying BIWC provided snacks, Skee-Ball, surprises, and silliness.
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January General Meeting - January 19th
Wreath-making, December 6th
The BIWC Soil Sisters invite you to our Annual Wreath-Making
BAINBRIDGE GARDENS Tuesday, December 6, 10am-noon

New Activity Group KICK OFF EVENT - December 4th
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November General Meeting, November 17th
Our November
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Over $2,000 raised and donated to Helpline House
Members arrived early with time to enjoy a spot of tea, some baked goods & friendly conversations.
Then the shopping began, making fun purchases; the proceeds of which were delivered to Helpline House on Thursday afternoon.
Items for sale included:
- Baked Goods
- Handmade Items– Glass Art, Wooden Ornaments & Knitwear
- Gently used donated items– Women's Accessories, Scarves, Hats, Jewelry, Small Purses and Books.
Thanks to everyone who volunteered and participated in this event.
Special thanks to Sandy for coming up with the idea, and for all her hard work making this event a success
October General Meeting, October 20
Phedra Elliot, the Executive Director of Housing Resources Bainbridge was our speaker for October. Phedra moved to the Pacific Northwest in 2002 just in time to buy an affordable home just before housing prices began to rise. She believes communities should have a variety of housing options and that being able to live where you work should not be a matter of luck.


Decorating Pumpkins at Bainbridge Gardens, September 30
Soil Sisters and Pop-Up Group had fun helping Donna Harui launch the Annual Bainbridge Gardens Pumpkin Walk by painting pumpkins. This year's pumpkin walk benefits the BI Boys' and Girls' Club.
September General Meeting, September 15th
Merilee Mostav from Bainbridge Historical Society
Summer Soiree
June Luncheon - WEDNESDAY June 14th
Sail Into Summer
JUNE LUNCHEON
Wednesday, June 14, 2023
11:30 AM
Wing Point Golf & Country Club
811 Cherry Avenue NE, Bainbridge Island 98110
Festivities begin at 11:30 AM with a glass of sparkling wine, followed by the luncheon at 12 noon.
You will have an opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for door prizes. (Cash/Checks only)
We will be having a Vintage Fashion Show put on by the Bargain Boutique.
Donations for Helpline House accepted with gratitude!
MENU
Mixed Greens with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Bread Basket and Butter
North West Chicken
Seasoned Vegetables
Roasted Potatoes
or
Vegetarian Mushroom Risotto
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Lemon Tart with Rosemary
Coffee, Tea & Soft Drinks
$43 per person includes tax/gratuity AND a glass of sparkling wine or nonalcoholic beverage.
Guests welcome.
Reservation Deadline: Tuesday, May 29th with name(s), entrée choice, and payment.
3 Ways to Reserve & Pay
- CREDIT CARD: Click on the SAILBOATS above. Fill out your info & hit "Submit."
Note: You DO NOT need a PayPal account. Just skip over the PayPal box & scroll down to the bottom to choose "Pay with Credit Card"
- BRING YOUR CHECK or CASH to the General Meeting on Thursday, May 18th
- MAIL CHECK by May 25th: $43 per person Payable to:
BIWC
PO Box 10855
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
** Indicate chicken, or vegetarian entrée directly on your check memo line.
Please -- no separate notes.
Carpooling encouraged. Need a ride? Contact: Judy Grossman
Luncheon Questions? Contact: Tracie Waxman
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Supporting Our Community. These are but a few of out tireless volunteers at the 62nd Annual Rotary Auction
June Coffee Hour
May General Meeting, May 19th
This organization provides emotional and monetary support for people on Bainbridge who are faced with medical difficulties. To date the organization has disbursed over $1 million to our neighbors who are caught in financial crisis as a result of serious illness.We heard how the group was formed and all the incredible things this organization does. Amazing how many services we are fortunate to have here on our Island.
Trip to Whitney Gardens May 17th
Soil Sisters day trip to Brinnon
March General Meeting, March 17th





November General Meeting
The November meeting included a fun presentation by this local boy and cool author.
Jonathan Evison is the New York Times Bestselling author of seven novels, including:
All About Lulu, West of Here, The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving (also a movie), This Is Your Life, Harriet Chance!, Lawn Boy, Legends of the North Cascades, and Small World.
As a teen, Evison, was the founding member of the punk band March of Crimes, which included future members of Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. He lives on Bainbridge Island with his family.
October General Meeting


Join Us for Paint Nite Happy Hour
- Email Sandy at: sandy7nt@gmail.com for more info
- Very limited spaces as we will be social distancing inside the studio.
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Please RSVP to Sandy by Oct. 11 at noon.
- Vaccinated members only and a Face Mask is required.
Come and have some fun and leave with a masterpiece.
Patti's Porch Party

June Luncheon and General Meeting
Fifty-two members and guests basked in the sunshine, sipped beverages, and socialized over lunch at Eleven Winery in June. Thank you! What a joy to re-connect! We never expected to “sell out” the venue, and sadly could not accommodate inquiries after the deadline. Much appreciation to “Our Friendly BIWC Board Members” who volunteered and organized.
Outreach: Thanks to All
The wonderful turnout at our June luncheon also resulted in an impressive amount of donations for Helpline House: 42 pounds of food and a total of $95 in cash and checks. Thanks to everyone!
October’s Afternoon of Fun in the Park
Back by popular demand, October featured another round of Drive-in Games! Lots of laughter and honking horns were heard, as members were able to participate in The Price is Right and Name that Tune from the comfort of their cars. Some just couldn’t resist putting on their dancing shoes. Prizes awarded to our lucky winners included Gift Cards from Local Restaurants.
Recap of October's Zoom Program
If you did not have an opportunity to participate in our October Program, we have posted a link to the pre-recorded presentation by the Ascend Fund. Click on the link below to learn about the challenges facing women who choose to run for office, the strategies for promoting gender parity and the other organizations working in coordination with the Ascend Fund.
Our Program Committee Chair, Karla Sammons, (highroadevents@msn.com) will be contacting the Ascend Fund with follow-up questions and comments from our members, and we invite you to contact Karla if you would like your feedback included.
Fun Times at September Drive-In Games
Kudos to Joanna Lyon for our wonderful Parking Lot Bingo and Trivia! Some members opted to stay in their cars while others brought lawn chairs to sit outside. Congratulations to the Bingo and Trivia winners! We hope to hold one other parking lot activity while the weather permits. It’s such fun to actually be able to visit with each other, even if at a distance.
- Golf activity group enjoying the sunny weather
- Members and guests have ample time to chat and network during the coffee time prior to the monthly meeting
- The Spicy Ladies having fun together
- Members of our golfing group
- Having fun at our monthly meeting
- Having fun with our "In Home Dining Group"
- Wine and Garden Party
- HIking/Walking Group
- Sip & Shop Auction Items
- Sip and Shop - Music and Dancing
- Holiday Party - IslandWood
- Holiday Party - Members Celebrating
- Holiday Party
- Raffle Items at June Luncheon
- June Luncheon - Members wiho won the table hat decor