Supporter

Freedom Quilts had not had a chances to post due to being busy with trying to get enough quilts for the Flood victims in Cedar Rapids Iowa. We delivery 500 quilts to the Cedar Rapid families and it's all due to our families of supporters. Yes without our families of supporters we would not be able to do all the good works we have been doing. This month the families of supporters are as follow
Well Agco LLC
Frank Reigelsberger
Darlene M. Wittrock
Alice Kelly
Diane Knockel
St Martins Ladies Society Odebolt
Lois Weber
Priscilla Hilgendorf
Mary Jane Criag
Kathy Veit
Patricia Archer
Linda Boeckenhauer
Lisa Veit
Thank you for helping us to continue helping others. May we all have a very Merry Christmas and wonderful New Year.

Support Team

Without the help of many Freedom Quilts would not be able to do all that it has been doing. Our new families of support are as follow
CRVA
Kay Kordik
Robert O'Obrien
St. Mary Student Activity
Storm Lake Knights of Columbus Council #2326

It takes many to keep this project going not only the ones that work putting the quilts together but those that fund the project so we can continue to bring comfort to families that wish us to. Thank you so very much for making it possible to continue doing God work. You are all truly awesome and truly a part of Freedom Quilts.

Support Team

What would Freedom Quilts do without it's support teams. We are adding some more in our Support team and thanking them for all the help they do to help us continue to do our mission. As you might know we are also now adding the flood victims of Cedar Rapids Big sister as I call her because the population is so much more then Fonda which I would have to say is little sister. Sometime little sister has to come and reach out as I know big sister would do if little sister was hurting. Our Freedom Quilts Support team this time are
Knights of Columbus Webster City IA
Lake Lutheran Women Goldfield Ia
XI Chapter Alpha Delta Kappa Early IA
Sue Lodge
Dottie Mozell
Without your help we could not do what we continue to do. Thank you and we will continue to post as we keep getting more supporter in our team. God bless you all for supporting this mission.

Thank you for your Support

I'm so sorry for not keeping up with my supporter this time of year I am swamped helping my husband out in the field and also trying to get quilts done. I could not thank you enough for all you do to support this project because without you we could not be able to keep going. Thank you for caring and making a huge different in other people lives. The following support families are:

St Joseph Altar Society Hartley, IA
Brian Beach
United Methodist Women Huntingon, CT

Yes you are truly the back bone of this project and we would just like to thank you for helping us continue to make a different.
As you know we are also trying as hard as we can to make quilts for also the flood victims it is a task that needs to be done and with help from everyone I know we can get it done. Thank you and God bless.

Our families of Supporter

Our families of supporter keep growing and you my friends are the reason we continue to keep helping others. I'm blessed to have wonderful friends and families of supporter this week our supporter are
Sharon Johnson
Janice Dugger
Shirley Welander
Alice Seagren
Lois McGoven
Darlene Mann
David Goddess
Evangelical Covenant Church
Faye Hogen
Many thanks for you make it possible for me to continue.

Yesterday I spent it working on quilts. I had ladies come and help me work on quilts for the flood victims. The ladies worked from 9:00 in the morning until 3:00 in the afternoon. I worked from 7:30 in the morning until 7:30 at night. I should of stayed in bed for I wasn't feeling the best. I have a sinus infection with a temperature of 102 I figure I had the help I wasn't going to turn them down. Today I wake up in tears thinking of all the families that have lost a love one and part of me wishing I could have been there but not in the condition I am today. I even woke up in tears as I was dreaming of children of 911 crying and asking for help and I was trying to protect them all from the horror that was happening I woke up with tears running down my face. I wanted you to know that you were in my prayers and in our hearts. Many people ask me why do I continue my only answer to them is remembering the faces of so many families that we gave out quilts to. Remembering the families that helped me help others so I can make sure those that still have yet to receive will. I owe you alot to families of 911 that supported me and help me reach out to other families. I feel like I made more friends through the years and always have you all in my prayers. Today was not an easy day for any of you. I wish I could take all your pain away but I know I can't I can only pray that God will help you through this journey that have taught us all what happens when we are not careful. We live in a world that is not safe and we need to watch out for one another. It's been seven years since that horrible day. The day that made our country stop and care for one another and do something. I just hope that we have not forgotten and continue to do for others. That is what makes us all strong is when we stand together and help one another out. Doris I think of you often you lost your beloved son and now you lost your husband. Kathy I know your strong I know it and I also know how much you loved your sister Patty. It shows as you talk about Patty and your face glow as you talk about her. Your niece is growing to be a beautiful young lady and you are helping her for you know that your sister would have wanted that. To all the rest I have not forgotten my wonderful friend Adele who God send my way so we can meet. You are all wonderful and loving people you are all God children that he has brought into my path to meet and grow and become stronger. You all taught me how to continue even thought there seem like there is no hope. All I have to do is picture your faces in my mind and heart and no one can tell me it can't be done because I show them that I can. You made my life richer for when you reach out to God and let him in you do become richer in spirit and that is so important. I just wanted to let you know I haven't forgotten and never will. We do care and I do still have you all in my heart. Kenneth your son was a truly awesome young man all of your love ones were. They all left a mark in this world and they made it better for the rest of us. So on this day I will always keep you all close to my heart and every year to come.

911 Seven years later

Seven years ago the world stop for a while the Twin Towers were attack the pentagon was attacked four plane were taken over by terrorist but flight 93 did not let the terrorist kill anymore people they gave of themselves to save others. I'm no longer just a farm wife and mother I'm a woman with a mission. Seven years ago my heart open to all those families that were in pain and now seven years later I'm still working with the help of many to continue making quilts for 911 families for fallen soldiers, Katrina and flood victims right here in my own state. I will continue to try and bring comfort to all those that wish our comfort. What happen on 911 will always stay with me it woke me up to reaching out to others and defending all those that need it. It also open me up to just reach out to anyone that need me and if they just need me to listen well I'm here for them also. We were in New York on August 14 through the 18 and here are some pictures of what Ground Zero still looks like.

Thank you for all your support

Freedom Quilts keeps going and keeps trying to comfort all those that need it but it wouldn't be able to unless it had a family of supporters. This week I want to thank the following that has help us keep going.
Arlene Tebben
Lin Sunshine
Ms. Colletta Ammann
Egon and Barbara Hatzel (loss FF Thomas J. Hetzel on 911)
Mrs. Norman C. Schreier

Without your help we would not be able to do all that we do so thank you for being a part of Freedom Quilts for being a family of caring. You are the best.

We need your Help for the Flood Victims of Cedar Rapids Iowa

My dear Friends I need everyone help with this one . Over 5,400 families have lost everything. Freedom Quilts is stepping up and doing what it knows best asking for help and making quilts for these flood victims. Nothing is impossible if you have faith and right now I have faith that together we can make a huge different to all the families that have lost so much during the flood here in Iowa. I need quilts or money donation to make this possible. Any amount will do quilts small med or large. From Lap quilts on bigger. Color and design I will leave that up to you. It's always easier to come up with your own design then have someone telling you how it should be done. My goal is to bring comfort to these families and I hope with the help of everyone I could make that happen. United we stand and united we can make it happen. I know what the meaning of receiving a homemade quilts for I witness it many of times when I pass them out to families so please join with me and make a different I need you all to help so we can have enough quilts to give out by this winter. God blesses you all and I truly hope I hear from alot of you. Betty founder of Freedom Quilts

Winner of the Freedom Quilts 2008 Raffle is

Winner of the 2008 Freedom Quilts raffle was Lavon Mason from Fort Dodge. She told me she had never won anything in her life. Well she was lucky this time and won our beautiful quilt. We are preparing to design our next quilt for next year raffle. When we get it done we will post it on the website and the blog for all to see. So remember when you receive your letters please partaking in the raffle fund raiser it is our way of raising money to continue this project that has meant so much to so many families. Lavon Mason is the lady to the left of the quilt. She was very happy to win the quilt. Dennis and I took a little time off to help them quilt a little. We had a wonderful time with truly wonderful ladies.

Thank you for all your support

I want to thank all members in our family of supporter for without you Freedom Quilts would not be able to continue. You are our back bone of this project. We have added flooded victim also to the list of quilts we need to make. It's a tall order but we know with everyone help we can do it.

Nokers Custom Hitch
GingerBread House in Webster City
Myra Christopher
Sharon Michklson
Michelle Spinelli
Harold L. Martin
Miss Hyacinth Blackman
Elizabeth Wright
American Legion Auxiliary (Ruth Neville) Odebolt
Mrs. Deb Majeres
Northwest Council of Catholic Women, Larchwood Ia
Vivian Hickman
Melinda Cress

Thank you so much for making it possible to continue this project. it will be 7 years come this September that this project started and continue to keep focus on helping all those that need us thanks to all of you. We will continue to post as we get news or donations.

Thank you for all your support

I want to thank all members in our family of supporter for without you Freedom Quilts would not be able to continue. You are our back bone of this project.
* Karyn Brophy (lost her son PFC Brian Botello)
John Landgraf in charge of parades for Freedom Quilts
Beulah Imming supporter all the way
Barbara Wadle
Darcy Maulsby written many article to keep informing viewer of this project
Cathy Hodgins
Denise Eckerman made quilts to help this project and also donation
Mark Wells
Janet Schoon
*Mary Soenksen (lost her daughter PFC Katie Soenksen
Nancy Hunt
Linda Stephenson
Janet Dougherty
Pamela Chrystal
Cheryl Werinmont
Linda Dirksen
Mary Kirk
Janaan Wright
Vivian Mc Cormick
Robin Hansen
Trinity Presbyterian Church ( the children did a fundraiser and really did an awesome job raising money for Freedom Quilts.
Ruth Lally
Harold Martin
Thank you for being a part of our family. We continue to post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our families of friends and supporters

*We wish to extend special tributes to family who have lost a loved one. May we always hold dear and honor the memory of their beloved.

Thank you for your Support

I would like to thank all members in our family of supporter for without you Freedom Quilts would not be able to continue. You are our back bone of this project and because of you many have been comfort with quilts Thank you and God blesses.

Clare American Legion Auxiliary
Augustana Women of the ELCA
Sherry Campbell
Denise Echerman
*Edie Deyarmin (lost her son Marine LCPL Daniel N. Deyarmin Jr.)
http://www.freedomquilts.net/Soldier_deyarmin.html
Alta VFW Ladies Aux
* Wendy Cosgrove (lost her husband Kevin Cosgrove on 9/11)
http://www.legacy.com/Sept11/Story.aspx?PersonID=94792&location=2evin_M_Cosgrove.php

We wish to extend special tribute to families who have lost a loved one. May we always hold dear the honor and memory of their beloved.

Thank you for wanting to be a part of our family who reaches out to others without you I know Freedom Quilts would not be able to do all that is does and hopes to continue to do. We will continue to post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our families of friends and supporters.

Norma Gehig

Norma is Married to Ray --They will observe
their 60th anniversary in 2008.( How many people can actually say they been
married for 60 years. She truly knows how to keep a marriage going) They
have six loving
children --3boys & 3 girls. They presented them with 19
beautiful grandchildren & they in turn gave them 13
great- grand children. Quite a group when they all get
together.
Hobbies--I love to sew--crochet--help with freedom
quilts--do crafts--make rosaries--read. Theres always
something that needs doing. Have made afghans for all
my grand children for graduation & children as
well.Havent got to the son-in-laws yet & have been
told so. (What Norma hasn't told you is that she also cleans our church and
decorated it and gets it ready for us every week. She is also a librarian
beside the many other things she is involved in. I have never heard her
complain about any thing and she always has something nice to say about
everyone. She soft spoken and kind , you can depend on her for she is
always willing to help out. She a very hard worker and never complain about
anything she just get right in there and helps. We all love her dearly
because she is so sweet and kind. We like picking on each other but with
Norma since she is so sweet we don't pick on her as much. We have so much
respect for her. We truly love her so much.
How did you hear about Freedom Quilts-- In a town our
size word travels pretty fast & as I never want to
miss out on anything I decided to check it out. As it
turned out I was very pleased of the goals it
represents. So thats how I got started with Freedom
Quilts. I guess I am one of the ones that got in on
the ground floor. What Norma forgot to tell you is that she was one of the
first to support this project and though many have come and gone through the
years Norma is still with us stronger then ever. Norma is a very Christian
person and if she can bring comfort into families through our quilts she
wants to be a part of it. Norma like the rest of us didn't know how long
this project was going to last she never has given up. She believe in the
project and is a great part of the project. Norma is a huge asset to this
project. It's like I have been blessed with having the best of the best
helping me with this project.
Although I am not a seasoned quilter I remember my
mother having quilting sessions at our home as I was
growing up so I was happy to have the privilege of
quilting on the first quilts Freedom Quilters made,
Now when we work I mostly help with the tieing--have
also helped sew the tops & have helped with the
binding.Whatever the boss says.(lol) Norma can do anything you ask her so
it's easy to assign her to any task because she does it and does it well.
Working on the quilts gives me a feeling of doing a
worthy job for someone who needs compassion.It gives a
person a good feeling to think maybe you helped these
people who have such sorrow in their lives a little
joy.
I have been to some of the events when quilts were
presented to the families . I saw first hand how
touched they were to realize that people who didn't
even know them would reach out to them in this way-- &
I cried along with them.
The event at Varina was a very special one.
I certainly never expected Freedom Quilts to become
what it has today. I thought the first quilts we made
for Sept.11 would be it--Guess I was wrong & I am
happy I was wrong as it is surely a worthy project. It
is also a charitable project --we are all called to
give of ourselves in charity --what better way than
this.I am proud & happy I am a part of this
organization & I thank Betty Nielsen for being our
leader. She has spent many hours working & praying to
make this organization a success. In my estimation she
has done a wonderful & remarkable job--In that her
prayers have been answered. Proud To Be A Fredom
Quilter-- Norma Gehrig Varina Iowa.
It is people like Norma that make up Freedom Quilts. She has a heart of
gold that reaches to anyone that needs help. She brings so much goodness
into this project and I must say she enrich the project and the rest of us.
I am truly blessed to have Norma as a friend and a sister of the cloth.
Together we have learn so much care for each other and given our love,
warmth, and carrying to others. As Christian we are called to help one
another and that is what this project is all about helping others and loving
everyone as the Lord would want us to. Norma is a good example of what a
true Christian is all about. Norma is the best of the best. This project is
truly blessed with the ladies that have join the project because they are
truly the best of the best and I am thankful for all of them.

Thank you for all your support

Thank you for your support

I want to thank all members in our family of supporter for without you Freedom Quilts would not be able to continue. You are our back bone of this project. We will continue to post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our families of friends and supporters.

Plover UMW Rolfe
Russell Montgomery
Amvet Post 66
*Theresa Mullan (lost her beloved son on 9/11 FF Michael D. Mullan)
*Alice S. Sheldon (lost her beloved brother PAPO Paul W. Jurgens)
VFW ladies Aux Alta
Christina Kazazes
Trinity Lutheran Church

* We wish to extend special tributes to family who have lost a loved one. May we always hold dear and honor the memory of their beloved love one.

Freedom Quilts Open House

Freedom Quilts finally has a permanent home so this project will continue to comfort families that need us.
All our supporters and friends are invited to help celebrated.

What: Freedom Quilts Open House When: June 29th, 2008 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Where: 13637 550th St. Fonda, IA Sign up for a door prize

Direction: From Storm Lake take C-49 East until you come to intersection C-49 and N-28 turn left on N-28 for two miles and then turn right on gravel road 550th St. We are the second place on the North side of the road you will see the sign on the building.

Direction From Fonda Take Hiway 7 and N-28 intersection go 7 miles North then turn east on 550th St, gravel road second place the building will have the sign.

From Pocahontas: 9 miles West hiway 3 then 3 south on N-28 turn left which is East on 550th St second place on the North side of the road

From Fort Dodge: Take hiway 7 from Pomeroy and Fonda on the west edge of Fonda turn North on N-28 Go 7 miles north then go 3/4 mile east on 550th St the second place on the north side of the road.

Join us in doing something good for the country.

Memorial Day Weekend

For some of us it's the start of picnics, a holiday, a day off from work but do we really take time to reflect what Memorial Day really means. Memorial Day should be a day to reflect on those that gave the ultimate sacrifice for us all. These are men and women that bravely stood forward to protect their family and country. We don't always stop to think that these great men and women gave it their all so we could enjoy this great country and not live in fear. Some of us just take it for granted.
This Memorial weekend take the time to celebrated by taking time to honor those who have died for us. Pray for our troops to come home safe and pray for the families that are left behind. Reach out to them and let them know you care.

Thank You

Today I want to thank all members in our family of support for without you Freedom Quilts would not be able to continue. Here are more members that we owe a great deal of thanks
Marie Sandre
Alpha Delta Kappa from Cherokee
Inspire By Time Quilts
Bonnie Rahn
Covered Bridge Quilting
Julie French
American Legion Auxilary from Pocahontas
Thank you for being a part of our family. We will continue to post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our families of friends and supporters.

Thank You!

Members in our Family of Support, Thank You

Trinity Lutheran Church Odebolt
*Debbie J. Newhouse
*Arlene Tipping
Council of Catholic Women Central Deanery Odebolt
* Mary B. Field

* We wish to extend special tributes to families who have lost a loved one. May we always hold dear the honor and memory of their beloved.

*Debbie J. Newhouse lost her son SPC Nicholas E. Wilson on March 11, 2005. Nicholas died while conducting a roving patrol in Ramadi, Iraq. We were honored to have Debbie Newhouse visit and stay with us. It was a true honor to listen to Debbie talk about her son. There was so much pride in her face, but you could also see the pain in her eyes. It was truly a gift to be able to respectfully honor her with a quilt in remembrance of her son. Debbie has continued to keep in touch which is also an honor for me.

*Arlene Tipping lost her son FF John Tipping on September 11, 2001. We have continued to be very close friends. I have gone to visit her in New York, and she knows that she can talk to me about anything and I will listen. I will listen to all the families that are mourning the loss of a loved one. Out of sadness, friendship got started and has grown.

* Mary B. Field lost her son Sgt Nathan R. Field on January 7, 2006 when his Humvee was hit by a civilian vehicle in Umm Qasr, Iraq. There wasn't a dry eye when Mary spoke of her son. The pain was so clear and she honor us all by sharing her loving son with the rest of us. Since she lives in Iowa we presented the quilt to her in person.

Thank you for being a part of our Family.

We will post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our Family of Supporters.

Thank You So Much!

Members in our Family of Support, Thank You

Jennifer C. Berger
Lois Houghtaling
Sheby County Board
Powhatan Pioneers 4-H Club
Nancy Dop
Patricia M. Webster
*Doug Cook
Julie Sampson
Barb Brugger
Robin Corzilius
Mrs. Ellen Streit
Mary Mohr
Souix City Diocesan Council of Catholic Women
Ireme Drown
Joan Godbersen
Anne Studer
Karen Renger
Shirley Elser
Karen McNertney
Rosemary Paulsen
IA Alpha Gamma Chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa Lois Houghtaling
Honey Bee Quilters (Barb Huston)

* We wish to extend special tributes to families who have lost a loved one. May we always hold dear the honor and memory of their beloved.

*Doug Cook lost his son SPC Robert M. Cook on January 29, 2004.

We will post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our Family of Supporters.
Thank you for being a part of our Family.

Members in our Familly of Support

We are very grateful for the commitment and support people have extended to us over the years. In addition to the many names we've already listed in our Family of Support, there are four very special corporate donors who we would like thank...


Walmart

Walmart has been with Freedom Quilts from the very beginning. In 2001, Betty, Dennis and The Girls struggled to find a way to get to New York -- to find a way to deliver hundreds upon hundreds of quilts to mourning 9/11 families. Well, they finally found their way into New York. BUT... how were they to transport so many quilts from the Heartland to the Big Apple?

This is where Walmart stepped in. Without a second thought, they donated a semi truck, two drivers, purchased shipping permits and covered fuel costs so that each and every Freedom Quilt could safely make it into New York. Not only did they offer to transport these quilts, but we could trust the people we worked with. Two very helpful Walmart staff in particular went out of their way to make sure we -- and so many quilts -- were well taken care of.

Walmart has also awarded Freedom Quilts with two grants over the years, which have been very helpful in sustaining our mission.

Oh yes, and I dare you to take a guess where Betty buys almost all of her fabric. :)


FedEx

FedEx has been a dedicated partner and supporter of Freedom Quilts. If it were not for FedEx, literally hundreds upon hundreds of families would never have received their quilts.

As many of you may know, Betty and Dennis have made several long treks out to the East Coast to deliver quilts. Well, the reality is, despite the number of trips they've made... there will always be families just beyond their reach. Families who couldn't make it to events, or even families who live far away from NYC. Many families, especially military families who have lost a loved one, are scattered across the nation -- across the world even.

Well, beginning in 2002, FedEx stepped in to help Freedom Quilts and began shipping quilts to mourning families all around the country. For free.

For years now, FedEx has connected hundreds of families to the comfort of Freedom Quilts. They have been so generous, reliable, and a true supporter of our mission to comfort. And the FedEx employees Betty is in contact with truly believe in our mission. They believe in Freedom Quilts, and we very grateful for their steadfast support!


American Identity

American Identity is a company based out of Iowa that specializes in custom embroidered caps and hats. They have very generously donated spools upon spools of high quality embroidery thread to Freedom Quilts. On one occasion, American Identity generously donated so many spools of thread that the back of the Nielsen's pickup truck was completely full! In addition, American Identity has donated high-quality batting for our Freedom Quilts. Their generosity has been so helpful to our mission!


ILEC (Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative)

We owe deep gratitude for ILEC's consistent generosity. Without fail, each and every year ILEC makes a generous donation during Freedom Quilts' annual fund raiser. Thank you!

Thank You so Very Much for
Your Support and Your Dedication!

Thank You for Keeping Our Mission Alive!

Thank you so very much for your support. Your help gives us the resources, the strength and the hope we need to continue comforting our mourning families.

Members in our Family of Support, Thank You

Doramae Heller
Maggie Langenfeld
Cheryl A. Smith
Marilyn Wilhelm
Mrs. Sharleen Payne
Ms. Jean M. Hunt (Jean worked in the Pentagon and she was injured on 9/11)
Nancy Dop
Mary Sweet
*Robin Peterson
* Patricia E. Tamuccio
Helen Mosbrooker (Mosbrooker Family Trust)
CD of A Court St Joseph No 1554 Bode
*Barbara Dziadek
*Barbara Heeran
*Lynn Faulkner
Women of ELCA Immanuel Lutheran Church
Dorothea Kultala
Ms. Danuta G. Kowalik
*Hydie A. Henry
*Thinnat and Khampane Nachampassak
* Mark and Irma McVicker
*Haleema Salie
Jean M. Colby
Varina American Legion Aux
Mrs. Kathleen Lancaster
Geraldine H. Barber
* Wilmar and Betty Pollema
Sioux City Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Ruthven
Betty Bardole
*Linda A. Sarle
Mrs. Hazel Glaze
*Ms. Joanie DeMeo
Joyce Blair
Deborah L. Ash
*Kathy Dillaber
Ms. Jo Vos
Sandi Meyer
*Marvin and Audrey Levin
St Mary's Altar Society Auburn
*Dan and Elfriede Plumondore

* We wish to extend special tributes to families who have lost a loved one. May we always hold dear the honor and memory of their beloved.

*Robin Peterson lost her husband William R. Peterson on September 11, 2001

* Patricia E. Tamuccio lost her son Michael A. Tamuccio on September 11, 2001

*Barbara Dziadek lost her brother Denis Lavelle on September 11, 2001

*Barbara Heeran lost her son Charles Heeran on September 11, 2001. He was only 23.

*Lynn Faulkner lost his wife Wendy R. Faulkner on September 11, 2001

*Hydie A. Henry lost her son Army Pfc. Chassan S. Henry on February 25, 2005. Chassan S. Henery, 20 years old, died in Iraq from injuries sustained from an explosion while he was conducting combat operations.

*Thinnat and Khampane Nachampassak lost their son Sgt Krisma Nachampassak on July 10, 2004. Marine Sgt. Krisna Nachampassak 27, of Burke, Virginia died due a non-combat related vehicle accident in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.

* Mark and Irma McVicker lost their son LCPL Daniel McVicker on October 6, 2005. Marine Lance Cpl. Daniel M. McVicker 20, of Alliance, Ohio died from an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations against enemy forces near Al Qaim, Iraq.

*Haleema Salie lost her son Sgt 1st Class David J. Salie on on February 14, 2005. Army Sgt. 1st Class David J. Salie 34, of Columbus, Georgia died in Ba'qubah, Iraq, when his vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device.

* Wilmar and Betty Pollema lost their son SSgt Bruce Pollema on Aug. 27, 2004 when the military tractor-trailer he was traveling in rolled over into a ditch near Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa.

*Linda A. Sarle lost her husband Paul F. Sarle on September 11, 2001

*Ms. Joanie DeMeo lost her husband FF Martin DeMeco on September 11, 2001

*Kathy Dillaber lost her sister Patty Mickley on the Sept 11, 2001 attack on the Pentagon. Kathy Dillaber has become a very dear Friend of the Nielsens. While Betty and Dennis were
in Virginia, it was Kathy who kindly help them give quilts to families who had that lost a love one on 9/11. Kathy still misses her loving sister very much. It is still very painful for all the families who have lost a love one.

*Marvin and Audrey Levin lost their daughter Alisha Levin on September 11, 2001

*Dan and Elfriede Plumondore lost their son Sgt. Adam J. Plumondore on February 16, 2005 in Mosul, Iraq, when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle.

Thank you for being a part of our Family.

We will post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our Family of Supporters.

Groovin' to the sounds of a new tune

So, a few days ago, I was talking with my mom -- yup, that'd be Betty Nielsen, FQ founder -- and the subject of music came up...

I've been listening to a lot of country lately, she says to me. It's what we listen to while we're quilting. The girls like it -- they like it better than my stuff. And it's starting to grow on me.

Mom even went on to talk about The Girls getting together to have their own in-house Freedom Quilts night of line dancing lessons. Linda Madsen offered to teach The Girls a whole new set of moves. Admittedly, this sounds like a lot of fun. But still, I almost couldn't believe Mom's big swing in music tastes.

The Betty who spoon-fed mashed up carrots into a much smaller version of my brother and me was a woman who'd strut her stuff to the soulful sounds of Motown. Mom often interrupted the Saturday cleaning routine so that she could teach my brother and I how to swing our hips to the beat of Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and Gladys Knight & the Pips.

Now, I know Mom still loves Motown. But her movement into brand new tastes and preferences is a testament to how close this group is, how much they've ventured to learn... and to grow together.

Janet Petty

To Janet Petty:

In trying to get all the names of our supporters, I forgot to put the * in front of your name which means you are one of the loving families who have lost a loved one. In your case, it was your beloved son SSgt Erickson H. Petty. Please forgive me for making this mistake. We honor all of those we have lost and we honor all of the families who have lost a love one. As one of our supporters, to me it shows why your son was such a hero -- he learned how to care from his parents.

God bless you and thank you. Thank you all for caring and supporting this project so we can continue to comfort others.

What Goes in a Quilt?

A lot of time, love, attention to detail... and money.

Fabric and Supplies

Freedom Quilts makes large, bed-sized quilts for families. Each quilt requires about 14 yards of top fabric and the backing requires about 9 to 10 additional yards. That already brings our total cost up to approximately $260 for fabric alone. Then, there's batting, thread, needles, rotary blades, and Band-Aids.
The total cost for one quilt can easily reach $300 - $350.

A Whole Lotta Time

Even one quilt requires hours and hours of planning, shopping for the right fabric combinations, designing individual blocks, organizing, cutting fabric swatches, sewing, quilting or tying, and binding.
Our volunteers dedicate about 80 - 100 hours of work per quilt.

In addition to raw materials costs, Freedom Quilts also incurs repairs and maintenance costs for sewing machines that are often pushed to their limit. Currently, of FQ's 10 sewing machines, 1 is in need of immediate repair and 2 are ready to be tossed (after many repairs and re-repairs).

Last year, Freedom Quilts gave 279 quilts to family members.

Freedom Quilts is able to continue comforting families because of
the loving support of people who donate their

Time
our dedicated volunteers

and

Money
our family of supporters

Thank You!

Thank you! We couldn't do it without your help.

Members in our Family of Support, Thank You

Rose E. Kreft
*Margaret Ann Johnson
*Mr. Alexander Santora
Milet L. Kraft
Yvonne Victoria
Sandra Terwilleger
*Deborah A. Lasko
The Hermine & Julius H. Gerwirtz Foundation
*Lorraine Nedell
*Bernadette McHugh
*Elizabeth Mattson
Thomas D. Cole
Nancy D. Gatzke
*Mrs. Christine Evans Serafin
*Marie Fisher
St Paul Lutheran Ladies Aid, Alden
*Zoe P. Kousoulis
Graeve Construction Company ,Lytton
Sac County American Legion
Joan Reiter
Sac County American Legion Auxiliary
American Legion Hutchinson-Liechty Post 546
Mary Proffitt
Mary Lou Morrison
*Roger Marti
Darlene J. Garrels
*Mrs. Iris Rothberg
Guys and Gals of Grant 4-H'er
Alan Reiss
Janet Petty
John D. Kopriva Kopriva Farming Company
*Chris Stanton
Carolyn Shook
Frances K. Roberg
Gladys A. Eddie
American Legion Auxiliary Polk City
Genevieve and Kelvin Langmiad DBA K&G Farms
St Peter and Paul's Catholic Ladies Aid West Bend
Carol Ann Larsen and Larsen Farms
Jean A. Hoesing
*Nancy Knight
Kathleen J. Elbert
Nola Carlson
*Raymond Downey Scholarship Charity Fund

* We wish to extend special tributes to families who have lost a loved one. May we always hold dear the honor and memory of their beloved.

*Margaret Ann Johnson lost her son Scott M. Johnson on September 11th, 2001

*Mr. Alexander Santora lost his son NY FF Christoper A Santora on September 11th, 2001

*Deborah A. Lasko lost her son Gary Lasko on September 11th, 2001

*Lorraine Nedell lost her husband Lawrence Nedell on September 11th, 2001

*Bernadette McHugh lost her brother FF Dennis McHugh on September 11th, 2001

*Elizabeth Mattson lost her husband Robert D. Mattson on September 11th, 2001. (Robert Mattson was a survivor of the 1993 bombing of the twin towers.)

*Mrs. Christine Evans Serafin lost her son Robert Serafin on September 11th, 2001

*Marie Fisher lost her son Andrew Fisher on September 11th, 2001

*Zoe P. Kousoulis lost daughter Danielle Kousoulis on September 11th, 2001

*Roger Marti lost his son Michael A. Marti on September 11th, 2001

*Mrs. Iris Rothberg lost her son Michael Rothberg on September 11th, 2001

*Chris Stanton lost son SFC Ricahrd J. Henkes on September 3, 2006 of injuries sustianed when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations in Yusifiyah, Iraq.

*Nancy Knight lost her son Sgt Kyle W. Childress on January 21, 2005 in Balad, Iraq when his unit was attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire.

*Raymond Downey Scholarship Charity Fund (lost FF Raymond Downey, Deputy Chief of Special Operations Command FDNY, was lost on September 11, 2001)

We will post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our Family of Supporters.
Thank you for being a part of our Family.

Thank You! YOU keep us going.

Members in our Family of Support, Thank You

Judith C. Stothoff
Janis C. Scharingson
Katherine Safris
Mrs. Elizabeth Roehrer
First Christian Church Guthrie Center, IA
Hamilton Law Firm, PC
Darla Pearce
Sally Peterson
Troy B. Wiens, D.D.S. Family Dental Center
Shirley Skadeland
Sue Hass
Jill Oman
Lundell Construction Co., Inc.
First Presbyterian Church Battle Creek, IA
Patricia Ruppier
Bargloff & Company
Women Baptist Missionary Society Lake City, IA
Stan Coombs
St. John Lutheran Church
Dennis Renquist
Bernadette Hayes Griffin
Vetter Equipment Company
Court St. Cecelia no # 283 Algona, IA
Katherine Safris
Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative Estherville, IA
*Carole Zion
*Mary A. Dowd
* John and Fran Bulaga
*Iris Rothberg
*Margaret Ann Johnson
* Ethal M. Henry
Irene M. Mobley
Mary A. Brown
*June Wildman
Lorraine Y Dixon
* Kurt and Diane Horning
* Debra Jean Cleary
* Oliva J. Smith
* Diane Keating Parks
*Diane Fairben
*Christel Desimone
*Dorine E. Toyen
*Beth Murphy
* Mrs Irene V. Ramirez
*Mary Jean Heller
*Marcia Lillianthal
*Judith A. Youngkin
Woven Hearts Quilt Guild
Frances Bean
*Barbara A. Hayes
*Kenneth Paul and Sharon Ambrose
*Emily Howell
* Edward and Mary Ann Sweeney
* Maie Mills Charitable Fund
Karen C. Jones
* Nickolette Maxwell

* We wish to extend special tributes to families who have lost a loved one. May we always hold dear the honor and memory of their beloved.


* Carole Zion lost her husband Charles A. Zion on September 11, 2001

* Mary A. Dowd lost her son Thomas Dowd on September 11, 2001

* John and Fran Bulaga lost thier son John E. Bulaga Jr. on September 11, 2001

* Iris Rothberg lost her son Michael Rothberg on September 11, 2001

* Margaret Ann Johnson lost her son Scott M. Johnson on September 11, 2001

* Ethal M. Henry lost her son FF William Henry on September 11, 2001

* June Wildman lost her daughter Alison Marie Wildman on September 11, 2001

* Kurt and Diane Horning lost their son Matthew Horning on September 11, 2001

* Debra Jean Cleary lost Kevin Cleary on September 11, 2001

* Oliva J. Smith lost her husband CWO Bruce A. Smith

* Diane Keating Parks lost her son Ryan Fitzgerald on September 11, 2001

* Diane Fairben lost her son Keith Fairben on September 11, 2001

* Christel Desimone lost her son Christian L. DeSimone on September 11, 2001

* Dorine E. Toyen lost her daughter Amy Toyen on September 11, 2001

* Beth Murphy lost her husband Kevin J. Murphy on September 11, 2001

* Mrs Irene V. Ramirez lost her son Sgt Christopher Ramirez

* Mary Jean Heller lost her husband Howard Joseph Heller Jr on September 11, 2001

* Marcia Lillianthal lost her son Steven B. Lillianthal

* Judith A. Youngkin lost her son David M. Tapper, Navy Seal

* Barbara A. Hayes lost her son Bob Hayes

* Kenneth Paul and Sharon Ambrose lose their son Paul Wesley Ambrose M.D. MPH on September 11, 2001

* Emily Howell lost her husband Michael Howell on September 11, 2001

* Edward and Mary Ann Sweeney lost son Brian Sweeney on September 11, 2001

* Maie Mills Charitable Fund, In Memory of Charles Mills who died on September 11, 2001

* Nickolette Maxwell lost her son Sgt Jason G. Maxwell

We will post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our Family of Supporters.
Thank you for being a part of our Family.

Thank You! To our Growing Family of Support.

Thank you so very much for your support! Your help gives us the resources, the strength and the hope we need to continue comforting our mourning families.

*Beverly Eckert
*Cindy Fortenberry
*Regina Coyle
*Alice A. Henry
Ray B and Margaret Nielsen
Elk Horn Lutheran Church Women
Mary A. Miller
Donald A. Beneke
Pocahontas Title Company, LLC
Evening Out Club
Bernetta Pudenz
Jean Meier
Marie A. Nelson
Ann M. Thomas
Gary Lee Friedman
Elva Doorenbos
Janice Zabel
Evelyn Berglund
D & G Woodin, Inc (Gretchen Woodin)
Mary Hayungs
Pocahontas Farm and Home Inc
Mrs. Mary Mohr
Mary Nyren
Lori Jensen Wells
Garnet Vierow
Linda Eichelberger
Kimberly Gutz
Lois M. Biggs
Dennis Koenigsfeld
Marilyn Lesan
*Martin L. McNulty
Steven Schroder
Ione Edwards
Winona Chrisman
Kent B. Willis
*Jane Pollicino
Francis L. Henderson
Margit Behrens
*Mrs. Anne Hohlweck
Mrs Lois K. Crouch
Dott M. Barney
Presbyterian Woman of Pocahontas
*Mrs. Dolores Caproni
Alpha Delta Kappa of Council Bluffs
*Tracy Gazzani
* Adele Milanowycz
Lois K. Crouch
*Barbara M. Weiss
* Mrs. Phyllis Schreier
Dorothy Kultala
*Christi Slavenas

* We wish to extend special tributes to families who have lost a loved one. May we always hold dear the honor and memory of their beloved.

* Beverly Eckert lost her husband Sean Rooney on September 11, 2001. While Betty and Dennis were in Connecticut giving quilts to the families of 9/11, Beverly kindly invited them into her home. She shared her story of a great man and a great love and the last minutes of that devasting day. Beverly will always be in our hearts and prayers as are all of the families who have lost a love one.

* Cindy Fortenberry lost her husband CW3 Wesley Charles Fortenberry when his helicopter was shot down in Baghdad.

* Regina Coyle lost her son FF James R. Coyle on September 11, 2001
http://iaff2498.org/news/the-343-fire-fighters.html

* Alice A. Henry lost her son FF Joseph P. Henry on September 11, 2001

* Martin L. McNulty lost a love in on September 11, 2001

* Jane Pollicino lost her husband Steve Pollicino on September 11, 2001

* Mrs. Anne Hohlweck lost Thomas W. Hohlweck on September 11, 2001

* Mrs. Dolores Caproni lost her son Richard Caproni on September 11, 2001

* Tracy Gazzani lost her son Terrence D. Gazzani on September 11, 2001

* Adele Milanowycz lost her son Greg Milanowycz on September 11, 2001

* Barbara M. Weiss lost FF David Weiss on September 11, 2001

* Mrs. Phyllis Schreier lost her husband Jeffrey H. Schreier on September 11, 2001

* Christi Slavenas lost her son 1st Lt Brian D. Slavenas

We will post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our Family of Supporters.
Thank you for being a part of our Family.

Many Thanks to Our Family of Support

Thank you so very much for your generosity, your compassion
and your heart-felt dedication to our mission...
to comfort those who have lost a loved one.

Members in our Family of Support, Thank You
*Diane Miller
*Linda Cavalier
Sarah Gittins
Mary L. Smalley
*Joan E. Tino
*Patricia Wotton
Mrs. La Donna De Young
*Marilyn W. Thorpe
American National Bank Sac City, IA
Lila M. Johnson
Valeria Sauter
Mildred B. Devereaux
Ms Elaine Mackey
Donna B. Buckmiller
Mrs. Arlene Carlson
Thursday Study club
Marjorie N. Buntz
Shari Siemsen Stelling
*Barbara Blass
Lenora R. Babb
*Brenda Bishop
*Janet A. Dunstan
* Barbara Jackman
Joyce C. Johnson
Marlene Beadle
*Linda G. Creamer
*Doris Mardovich
* Joanne A. Blankenbecler
Debra E. Haak
Judy Herrin
Jane Ann Van Oss
Vivian E. Hickman
* Dorothy Scales
*Eleanor Gillette
SMSgt Jean M. Colby USAF Ret
*Gloria Ingrassia
Vicky Schroeder
Barbara Artist
Judy Genson
Riverside Presbyterian Women
Susan Grieme
Ted Shold
Dennis Walter
Judy Steffen

* We wish to extend special tributes to families who have lost a loved one. May we always hold dear the honor and memory of their beloved.

* Diane Miller lost her husband, Firefighter Henry Miller from Ladder 105 on September 11, 2001
* Linda Cavalier lost her son Judd Cavalier on Sept 11, 2001
* Joan E. Tino lost her daughter Jennifer Tino on Sept 11, 2001
* Patricia Wotton lost her husband Rodney James Wotton on Sept 11, 2001
* Marilyn W. Thorpe lost her son Eric Raymond Thorpe on Sept 11, 2001
* Barbara Blass lost her son Craig Michael Blass on September 11, 2001
* Brenda Bishop lost her son SFC Jason L. Bishop
* Janet A. Dunstan lost her husband Richard Dunstan on September 11, 2001
* Barbara Jackman lost her daughter Brooke Alexandra Jackson on September 11,
2001
* Linda G. Creamer lost beloved Susan M. Clyne on September 11, 2001
* Doris Mardovich lost her son Ed Mardovich on September 11, 2001
* Joanne A. Blankenbecler lost her son Sgt Major James D. Blankenbecler
* Dorothy Scales lost her son Col David M. Scales at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001
* Eleanor Gillette lost her son Evan H. Gillette on September 11, 2001
* Gloria Ingrassia lost her son Christoper Ingrassia on September 11, 2001

We will post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our Family of Supporters.
Thank you for being a part of our Family.

Patty Archer, a Friend and a True Sister

Those who know Patty Archer love her. You can depend on her and know that she'll always have your back. Patty is a very trusting soul and is more like a sister to us all. Patty is single and has two very awesome nephews that she loves dearly and a brother Paul. She loves quilting, reading, and going to activities that her nephews are involved in. Patty can do anything you ask her to, and if she doesn't know how believe me, it doesn't take her long before she catches on and then does it.

Patty helped to start our Freedom Quilts project. She got a call from me asking what she thought about making quilts for the 9/11 families. With out hesitation, she said yes she would help. Patty has many talents and shares them with all of us. I have never seen someone stretch material and make it fit like Patty does.

Some of the things Patty does for Freedom Quilts is sew blocks, tie quilts, occasionally sweeps the floor, or helps to set up the frames, and she helps with the annual mailers.

Patty used to help with presentations, but after her aunt got sick and then her brother with cancer, Patty couldn't do presentations any more. It was too painful. What people don't understand is, every time we do a presentation, we find ourselves reliving all the pain witnessed and it tears your heart to pieces. Patty puts her heart into everything she does and every time we did a presentation, it took a toll on her. Patty knows how it feels to lose someone you love. She has had her share of losses.

She lost her dad, her mom, her Aunt Betty, her brother Tom was killed in a propane explosion, and not too long ago she lost her amazing brother Mike. She knows that pain oh too well, and if there is anyone who really knows how to talk to families who have lost a love one, Patty would be the person to talk to.

She is strong in her faith and will support you 100 percent. She has both witnessed first-hand and has helped me through the ups and downs of this project. There were many of nights we went to bed in tears or upset because when things weren't going well, but never did she give up. She had faith and knew that God was going to pull us through all the hardships. Sometime I wondered if we would pull through, and she would remind me that I had to have faith and believe.

Many of nights we work and didn't get much sleep trying to get quilts done, and always her thoughts were with the families of those who lost a love one and on the project. Patty went to New York on the very first trip and got to see Ground Zero. She also made other trips with us to deliver quilts to families. Patty feels like we are making a difference. She hopes the quilts help families get through those tough days, but most important to Patty is the hope that families realize their loved ones made a difference too with their heroic acts. Patty feels always humbled and overwhelmed to see families receive their quilts. The families are always so thankful and that really touches Patty.

When you ask Patty what kind of feeling do you get when you are working on a quilt, she will tell you that she has a sense of peace and calm and that we are doing something to make a difference. When you ask her where she sees this project going, she'll tell you that only God knows -- and she means that literally.

We both have witness many miracles that only God would have his hands on, so we put our faith in the Lord and let him guide us. Even though Patty has touched so many hearts and has given so much, she will tell you that she probably received more from this project then what she put into it -- but we all know better than that. We know all she has done.

Patty has met many people that she would never have gotten to know, and yes this project has brought us together. Friendships have sprung up and have bonded us together. These friendships are priceless, and the quilts we make are an extension of that friendship. We are trying to extend our hugs and friendship to families across the nation. Patty is a huge part of this project and she is someone I know I can turn to for good advice. She has faith and that my friends, is what keeps this project going.

Thank you Louise Knapp for the beautiful Flowers

How touch I was to receive these beautiful flowers they took my breath away. I was both honor and humble at the same time. Thank you so very much.

Families of 2.26.1993

Yesterday, we wrote about remembering those who died in the first World Trade Center attacks on February 26, 1993. We also mentioned that Freedom Quilts sent handmade quilts to these families in honor of their loved ones.

Here are photos of families receiving their quilts.
(To view notes for each photo, move your pointer to "notes")

Thank You! To our Growing Family of Support.

Because of your generosity, together, we can continue to reach out to families with love to comfort.

Members in our Family of Support, Thank You
Michael Korsonsky*
Liz Wright
Dyan Zinzi
Fedex
A Stitch Above the Rest ( Sandee Petersen and Diane Knupp)
Loisanne Diehl
Donna Reynold
Mary Ann Sandvoid
Marlene Nielsen
Beverly Armstrong
Iska Hendricks
Pandora Phills, LMT
Leona King
Mary lou Johnson
Mrs. James M. Prichard
LaVon Barkmeyer
Helen Hall
Delorse Greeve
LaVon Mason
Laura Andrews
Francis Long
Beatrice Pudenz
Faye Hogan
Cletus Brincks
Mary Ellen Nilson
Paul Snyder
Richard E. Tesdahl
Coletta A. Ammann
Curt Manatt
Edgar F. Hansell
F.R. Ruliffson
Iowa State Bank (Sac City , Iowa)
Mary Turner
Angela Podraza
Betty Westmoreland
James N. Armstrong
Bernice Chambers
Irene Porter
Jeaunette Nall
Cleo L. Titon
Dale Butch Sleezer, Jr (Sleezer Select Stock)
Joyce Shriner
Michael M. Cullen
American Identity (Barbara Heying)

* We wish to extend a special tribute to Michael Korsonsky in honor and memory of his beloved Jeanette LaFond Menichino who died on September 11, 2001.

We will post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our Family of Supporters.
Thank you for being a part of our Family.

Remembering February 26, 1993

What were you doing on February 26, 2008? Do you remember what happened 15 years ago on February 26, 1993?
...it was the beginning of the pain, the sadness, and the terror.

On February 26, 1993 12:17 PM, a truck filled with 1,500 pounds of explosives was planted by Ramzi Yousef and detonated in the underground garage of the North Tower, opening a 100 foot (30 m) hole through 5 sublevels of concrete leaving six people dead and 50,000 other workers and visitors gasping for air in the shafts of the 110 story towers.

Many people inside the North Tower were forced to walk down darkened stairwells which contained no emergency lighting, some taking two hours or more to reach safety. As the Port Authority was a bistate agency, the towers were exempt from New York City building codes. Subsequent to the bombing The Port Authority installed emergency lighting in the stairwells. It is believed that this lighting saved many lives during the events of September 11, 2001.

In 1997 and 1998, six Islamic extremists were convicted and sentenced to life in prison for their roles in the bombing. According to a presiding judge, the conspirators' chief aim at the time of the attack was to destabilize the north tower and send it crashing into the south tower, toppling both landmarks.

As a memorial to the victims of the bombing of the tower, a reflecting pool was installed with the names of those who had been killed in the blast. Following the September 11, 2001 attacks, relief workers found a single fractured piece of the fountain etched with the word "John"; to date it is the only remaining part of the 1993 memorial that survived the collapse of the towers.
- Quoted from Wikipedia

A fragment of the memorial to the 1993 victims
that was destroyed in the September 11 attacks.


Did you take time to pray for the families who lost so much on that day? For those who will always have that day so painfully etched into their hearts? Freedom Quilts took time to reflect on the families and to pray for them. We also took the time to make quilts for the families and let them know that yes, it's been 15 years but we still have not forgotten. It is when we fail to stop and remember that things happen.

May we always hold in blessed memory
those who were killed during the attack on February 26, 1993

Stephen Knapp
John Di Govanni
Bill Macko
Bob Kirkpatrick
Wilfred Mercado
Monica Smith, who was pregnant

Please take time to think of all who died on that day and pray
that God will continue to give all mourning families comfort and the strength to carry on.

Our Family of Supporters, Thank You!

Without our supporters, Freedom Quilts would not be able to survive. They are the backbone of the project. They are people who reach out and help whenever we need it. This project is kept alive by Our Family of Supporters -- our dedicated volunteers and our generous donors.

Individual donations have made it possible for us to continue making quilts for families who have lost a love one. These generous supporters are the people behind the scenes, but this year we want all to know that they are making a difference. They have stood up to say yes, I want to help.

Members in our Family of Support, Thank You
Hope Veverka*
Belva Henrickson
Amy Bouska
Bowman & Depree, LLC
Teresa Horrocks
Elaine Harden
Farmers State Bank ,Marcus
Phyllis Helsing
Norene Schechinger
Anna Marie Olson
Karen K. Hyde
Shirley Ann Hogrefe
Susan Thayer
Brad Strader
Lois Powers
Marilyn Rehnstrom
Ms Marian Ballard
Lorraine Roarda
Taylor Contracting Co, Inc
Georgia Flanigan
Jean Spencer
Mildred Meyer
Violet Berkland
Judy Kollasch
Donna Stall
Citizen State Bank
Lake City Veterinary Service
Margaret Feld
Marilyn Nielsen
Don Siepker
Liz Wright
Dyan Zinzi

*We wish to extend a special tribute to Hope Veverka in honor and memory of her beloved son Army Pfc. Brandon R. Sapp who died in Iraq on August 14, 2004. May his memory live strong.

We will post as often as possible to honor and celebrate our Family of Supporters.
Thank you for all of your help.

Freedom Quilts Fundraiser

Thank you so much for believing in this project and for being one of our supporters. Without people like yourself who are kind and caring we would not be able to do all that we have done and hope to continue to do. You make it possible for us to continue and that means so much to the families that receive a quilt from us. They they know it comes from so many loving and caring people and you are one of them.

This year we decided use our Freedom Quilts Blog to thank and celebrate people who have supported us this year... to give them the credit they should receive, for without you I couldn’t and wouldn’t be able to do all that I have.

For those of you who are not yet supporters, it's never to late join in. We also would like for you to invite others to check out the blog site and have them put comments also. See about buying a ticket to win the beautiful quilt that we are raffling to raise funds.



Thank you and God bless.

Linda Madsen, thank you for your many talents, your dedication, and your amazing sugar cookies!

Linda Madsen is truly a talented woman. She is an excellent sewer and can sew anything you put in front of her. She has made entire quilts for this project, she has sewn blocks, sashing, boarders, binding, and ties quilts.

Linda is always coming up with fresh, new ideas to make The Girls' jobs a little bit easier. For some time, the tables rattled like crazy when the girls sewed at fast speeds. Well, Linda suggested placing carpet samples beneath sewing machines to curb the rattling. She also suggested placing non-slip shelving paper beneath the sewing pedal to prevent it from sliding around.

Linda is a wife, a mother of 3 girls and a grandmother of 5 -- but with twins on the way, she'll soon be a grandmother of 7. Linda is a very active woman whose time is spent with family, helping Freedom Quilts, and keeping busy with her many hobbies. Linda's hobbies include quilting, volleyball, and decorating sugar cookies (which, according to many, are quite simply the best sugar cookies you'll ever have). Linda is very talented and warm hearted, and her smile just lights up the room.

Linda first heard about the Freedom Quilts project on TV. Soon afterward, she and her friends went to work designing blocks and making a quilt for the project. When Linda came to deliver the finished quilt, she was invited to stay help... and, she's been with Freedom Quilts ever since.

Linda has witnessed first-hand what these quilts mean to the families. She helped to present quilts to the 9/11 victim families, she was at the Des Moines Event where families of fallen soldiers received quilts, and she was there when Freedom Quilts hosted its own special event in Varina to present quilts to families of fallen soldiers.

Linda was there when we presented one of our quilts to the 911 Memorial Museum... when Former Governor George Pataki from New York City thanked all those who helped bring comfort to the 9/11 families.

Linda's focus is her family, and you can tell how much her family means to her when she talks about them. Her eyes twinkle with joy as she talks about her beautiful daughters and grandchildren. Her heart goes out to families that have lost a love one. Not to long ago, Linda lost her dad. She is the first to tell you how important family should be to all of us, and she always takes time to help others.

"It warms my heart to help someone in need", is what Linda will say to you.

Greetings! As many of you could probably guess, leading a nonprofit organization is a very busy endeavor. In an effort to help Betty (a great leader of FQ and my mom) and to support Freedom Quilt's mission, I'll be volunteering my time to help post updates on FQ news and events.

It is a joy and an honor to help out, and I look forward to being a part of the Freedom Quilts community!

New FQ Building

Freedom Quilts has a brand new building! Just a couple of weeks ago, final touches were made to our organization's new home. We've got plenty of workspace, a kitchen, bathroom, a whole lot of storage space, and excellent lighting. But the best thing about the new building is that it's ours. Volunteers (aka "The Girls") are thrilled to know that they finally have a place where they can put their work away at the end of the day and know it will be right there waiting for them when they come back.

This is a huge change from the way we've had to do business in the past. For the last seven years, we've been working in the basement of the parish hall. Each day of quilting required a time-consuming routine of transporting and setting up equipment and then tearing down at the end of the day.

Now, FQ didn't have to pay to use the space, but it always felt like a transitory set-up. We never knew how much more time our organization would have at the parish hall. Even the priest would ask, so... when are you planning on finding another place? Do you know how much longer you'll be using the hall? Everyone felt like we were on borrowed time. We knew we'd eventually have to find a real home for the organization.

The new building also has number of comforts which were missing from the hall. Number one -- Heat. We keep the new building nice and warm, which comes in handy during cold Midwest winters. This is a welcomed change from the number of winter afternoons in the hall when we sat there quilting in our winter coats. One chilly day, you could even see your own breath in the air!

Ahh... Freedom Quilts finally has a place to call home!