By Caroline Pufalt
Thanks for years of dedicated volunteer service in editing and publishing the Missouri Sierran newsletter! For many years Bob Sherrick and Claus Wawrzinek have been the “unseen” force behind our newsletter, formerly called the Ozark Sierran.
Claus and Bob shared the work. The work started usually at a chapter meeting which Bob or Claus would attend and gather ideas for articles - but not just ideas, volunteers were also needed to write those articles. Claus was in charge of getting submissions, via email, in on deadline and that was sometimes a struggle. But with Claus’ reminders and his editing, each issue attracted interesting and timely articles. Chapter Development Director, Melissa Hope, also helped with design ideas and fund-raising tie ins.
Then Claus would start the formatting needed for eventual layout. He and Bob would usually meet at Bob’s house to complete the final layout, fitting articles, pictures, outings announcements etc in each issue. Both Kansas City area residents, Bob and Claus found that working together in person at the final stage was helpful. They also kept on top of technology and tried new publishing programs.
When the final electronic copy was ready, Bob would often take the disk directly to the nearby printer. Claus would make sure the printer had up to date labels for all 10,000 MO members. This is provided by the national club office. The printer would print and mail the newsletter and Bob would retrieve the extra copies that we use at meetings and public outreach events.
Together Bob and Claus produced a quality newsletter that was an important tool for communication within our chapter.
After years of donating time and effort on this project Bob and Claus are still active in the club but pursuing other avenues of volunteering - and maybe they will have more time for some of their favorite free time activities. Claus enjoys photography and hiking and skiing. Claus grew up in Germany near the Austrian Alps so he aims high when it comes to mountains. Bob and his wife, Doris, are lovers of the American southwest. They have enjoyed many Sierra Club service trips in that area.
In their typical generous fashion Claus and Bob have helped with the transition to a new newsletter team. Becky Parker is our new volunteer doing layout. Cheryl Hammond has also helped with an upgrade to a new publishing program. Caroline Pufalt is temporary editor.
If you are interested in editing, contributing articles or ideas, let Caroline know. cpufalt@sbcglobal.net