On Saturday, December 8, JASNA-Idaho welcomed 125 members and guests to honor Jane Austen's birth. The event included a tea and guest speaker and was held at the Grove Hotel in downtown Boise.
Tables in the ballroom at the Grove Hotel were decorated with poinsettias and framed quotes from Jane Austen. Lighted Christmas trees decorated the room. Music by harpist Alexander Combs set an elegant atmosphere.
Guests were greeted by Susan Durst and Monica Van Bussum, who staffed the registration table. Each guest received a name tag and place card prepared by tea registrar Irene Miller Coen.
Inside the ballroom, guests browsed the book and gift sale managed by Katelyn Holland and Karin Holland, and purchased raffle tickets for gift baskets prepared by Nanci Fritschle. Cheryl Russell Griebenow, Kris Kendall and Susana Ossandon helped with raffle ticket sales.
Tea service included scones with jam, finger sandwiches, sweets, and lots of tea.
Carole Stokes, Idaho Regional Coordinator, introduced the guest speaker for the tea, James Nagle. Mr. Nagle, JASNA Secretary and attorney, delivered a fascinating and informative talk entitled "Inheritance in Jane Austen's Time." Jim cited examples from Austen's works, especially
Pride and Prejudice, and also from the BBC production
Downton Abbey, to explain legal issues including inheritance, the entail, women's rights and property rights. Following his presentation, Jim answered questions on a number of issues.
The birthday tea is an annual event sponsored by the Idaho Region of the Jane Austen Society of North America. Irene Miller Coen served as registrar. Susana Ossandon handled publicity for the tea. Katelyn Holland coordinated the book and gift sale, and Nanci Fritschle organized the raffle. Monica Van Bussum designed table decorations and served as treasurer. Cheryl Neruda photographed the event.
