Member File: Don Earl
The deets:
Married for 49 years; two grown daughters and one grandchild; one dog
Forty-four years in Greenville, 30 years between Cherrydale and Furman; soon to be relocating to Central.
Previously lived in Buffalo, NY: “Raking leaves beats shoveling snow any day.”
Retired in 2013; joined LWVGC.
What brought you to the League of Women Voters?
My wife had previously been a member of the League and always talked about how special and dedicated the members were, so l when I retired, I jumped in with both feet and served on the board as treasurer for four years. My wife and I shared this LWVGC experience and commitment together, and I got to see first hand just how amazing and rewarding so many are.
What would you like to see Greenville LWV do in the next year or so?
I hope to renew some of the past energy as voting rights and democracy continue to require its deserved and respected purpose, not only in our community, but in every community. One of the things that I was most proud of was wearing my “LWV – Not For Women Only” pin.
What is the most surprising/interesting thing you’ve learned from being in the LWV?
It was so special to participate with voter registration at the New Citizen Naturalization Ceremony. It provides an opportunity to just see how emotional and moving this is for these new citizens. Unfortunately, it’s a right and privilege too many take for granted.
What is the best place you’ve ever traveled to?
“I would have to say it would be the moment I walked through the welcome lodge and saw the Grand Canyon “up close and personal.” It was the first time I had experienced what the phrase “takes your breath away” means and feels like.”
Don came back with a slight amendment to the previous statement: The very first experience of “taking my breath way” was when he first met his wife.
“My second best travel experience was to the Women’s Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls, New York. I had a wonderful hour of experience at the visitor center and then next door at the rehabilitated Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, where the First Women’s Rights Convention in the United States was held.
“Still a treasured visit which enlightened me to learn that this convention in 1848 included discussion and documentation of a “Declaration of Sentiments.” This document defiantly declared that “all men and women are created equal.” The final copy was signed by 100 of the 300 attendees, and, I’m happy to add, that was 68 women and 32 men. This last fact helps illustrate why I am proud to wear my “LWV - Not For Women Only” pin, and rewarding to see that at this beginning, there were also men supporting our cause and purpose.”
Photo: Don chasing rainbows! The Member File is produced by Jo Anne Hennigan. Interested in sharing? Reach out to her.