Vice President Joe Biden visit Peoria, Illinois March 31, 2010
Accompanied by U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill.
Keynote speaker for 16th annual Partners in Peace Celebration sponsored by The Center for Prevention of Abuse at Peoria Civic Center. His visit was significant because he wrote the landmark 1994 Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). The measure led to creation of the Peoria County Family Justice Center in October 2004.
Democratic Chairman Billy Halstead said Biden’s appearance proves Peoria’s importance on the national map, also noting President Barack Obama’s visit last year.
“The president comes one year, the vice president the next and we’re still a long ways from election. It’s not like they’re stumping for votes. I think it’s huge,” Halstead said, noting how the general public was invited to attend the event. “He’s not only coming to our city, but he’s coming here for a very important issue he feels deeply about.”
After departing the Civic Center, Biden made an unscheduled shop at George’s Shoeshine, a favorite stop of Secretary LaHood’s and local downtown institution. Owner George Manias, in his 63rd year of shining shoes, refused to accept payment for the five-minute shoeshine service that thrust his otherwise quiet business into the national spotlight — again.
In his shop, Manias boasts pictures with President Barack Obama, who stopped for a shine in 2009 and former presidents George W. Bush, Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford, all of whom stopped at the shop at one point or another.
“It was exciting, because I never thought he would stop by my shop. He’s a real nice man. He talks just like an ordinary person, a nice guy,” Manias said following Biden’s visit.
A second unscheduled shop took place at The Spotted Cow ice cream joint and cafe in Central Peoria, where owners Frank and Donna Abdnour renamed their homemade chocolate chip ice cream “Chip off the Old Biden” in his honor.
At that location, Vice President Biden, Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin sat with several small business owners and workers in the Peoria area.
One of those people was David Hill, who, with the help of Workforce Network funded by Recovery Act investments, has been able to transition his management experience into a retail grocery management position with The Kroger Company. Biden noted situations similar to Hill’s are taking place throughout the country.
Peoria resident Duane Greer took a guess Biden would visit Spotted Cow and managed to snag a front-row seat in the comfy cafe before the vice president arrived. “We live in the same neighborhood as Abdnour’s and I’m driving around here and I start seeing a lot of guys in black suits and dark vehicles I knew something was going on. So we walked down here from our house to have some lunch.”
Source. Karen McDonald, Political reporter, Journal Star
1 News Plaza, Peoria, IL 61643
(309) 686-3285 - Office phone
(309) 696-6453 - Cell
(309) 686-3296 - Fax
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
April 18-24 is National Crime Victims' Rights Week (Fairness, Dignity, Respect)
Please plan to join us as we gather to celebrate Oklahoma Crime Victims’ Rights Week at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at the Oklahoma State Capitol (Blue Room) in Oklahoma City.
Last Day to Register for YWCA of OKC 2 Minute 5K (April 17)
OKLAHOMA CITY (Mar. 31, 2010) — The YWCA’s 2 Minute 5K will be Apr. 17 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Stars & Stripes Park, 7398 N. Portland in Oklahoma City. The race coincides with Sexual Assault Awareness month and will raise funds for programs assisting victims in our community.“Every 2 minutes a woman is sexually assaulted,” said Janet L. Peery, CEO of the YWCA Oklahoma City, referring to the name of the event. “That is too many women hurt in our state. This race is a chance for everyone in the community to spread awareness, assist victims and help prevent future attacks.”
Race day will include the 5K as well as a family fun run and community fair. The fair includes games and family-friendly activities, free food and live music. After the race, participants will hear the first hand story of a sexual assault survivor in our community and learn how they can help raise awareness.
Funds raised through the race directly benefit the YWCA’s programs to help victims of sexual assault, including the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program and hospital advocacy. The YWCA SANE program trains and coordinates volunteer nurses to meet sexual assault victims at the hospital to meet their medical needs and perform a forensic exam to collect evidence. Hospital advocates, also trained volunteers, provide emotional support and resources for victims during and after the exams. Prevention Education programs are also supported through the event.
Race registration is available online at www.ywcaokc.org/2minute5k. Participants can register as a team or individual and set up a personal webpage. Registration is $25 April 5, then $30 from April 6 through the day of the race. Check in begins at 8 a.m. on April 17 and the race will begin at 9 a.m.
About the YWCA
The YWCA Oklahoma City is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice and dignity for all. The YWCA Oklahoma City is best known for being the only shelter for battered women and children in Oklahoma County. Nearly 3,000 women, children and men receive help through YWCA programs, including emergency shelter for battered women and children, counseling, support groups, child care, transitional housing, financial literacy, batterer's intervention and other services. For more information on the YWCA Oklahoma City, visit www.ywcaokc.org.
Source: YWCA OKC Media Contact: Katie Hurst
Office: 405-951-3381, Cell: 918-637-9507
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
OK State Rep. Mike Shelton Calls for Judge’s Investigation, Removal
From the Oklahoma House of Representatives
Media Division
March 30, 2010
OKLAHOMA CITY – State Rep. Mike Shelton today called for the state attorney general to investigate Major County District Judge Vinson Barefoot in light of the judge’s decision to place four Liberian-born sisters with adoptive parents convicted of abuse.
Shelton said he believes the judge should be removed from office.
“It is very clear that these four girls are now in danger,” said Shelton, D-Oklahoma City. “Based on all the public evidence, I don’t know how anyone could justify placing children in a home with adults who are known violent abusers of children. This decision defies all common sense.”
The four girls were among five adopted from an orphanage in Liberia. The second-oldest sister (not among those ordered back to the home) has said she was abused both physically and sexually by the adoptive family.
The adoptive parents, Ardee Verlon Tyler and Penny Sue Tyler, were convicted of felony child abuse and received 10-year suspended prison sentences. One of the couple’s biological sons, 28-year-old Jeremy Tyler, has also claimed the couple is guilty of long-standing abuse.
Media Division
March 30, 2010
OKLAHOMA CITY – State Rep. Mike Shelton today called for the state attorney general to investigate Major County District Judge Vinson Barefoot in light of the judge’s decision to place four Liberian-born sisters with adoptive parents convicted of abuse.
Shelton said he believes the judge should be removed from office.
“It is very clear that these four girls are now in danger,” said Shelton, D-Oklahoma City. “Based on all the public evidence, I don’t know how anyone could justify placing children in a home with adults who are known violent abusers of children. This decision defies all common sense.”
The four girls were among five adopted from an orphanage in Liberia. The second-oldest sister (not among those ordered back to the home) has said she was abused both physically and sexually by the adoptive family.
The adoptive parents, Ardee Verlon Tyler and Penny Sue Tyler, were convicted of felony child abuse and received 10-year suspended prison sentences. One of the couple’s biological sons, 28-year-old Jeremy Tyler, has also claimed the couple is guilty of long-standing abuse.
-----
Way to go, rep Shelton; you must have been reading my mind! What WAS that judge thinking? See The Oklahoman article entitled Liberian sisters to stay with Oklahoma adoptive parents Judge makes ruling despite son’s claims of abuse
Monday, March 29, 2010
Women in US Military Service - Will Policies Change?
By Dawn Lim dlim@govexec.com March 26, 2010
The first women who flew military aircraft were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor bestowed by Congress, this month in a highly anticipated ceremony at the Capitol. As aviators in noncombat roles, Women Airforce Service Pilots ferried and tested planes to free up male pilots for combat during World War II.
Women have earned the right to be in combat alongside their male counterparts in more aspects of military life since the 1940s. But they still are barred from being assigned to ground combat units. That could be about to change.
Last month, Army Chief of Staff Gen. George Casey said the military should review its policy outlining the role of women on the battlefield.
In congressional testimony in late February, Casey said, "I believe that it's time we take a look at what women are actually doing in Iraq and Afghanistan and to look at our policy."
He spoke a week after the Navy, with the support of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen, unveiled plans to lift the ban on women serving in submarines.
A 1994 Defense Department policy states that women can be assigned to all positions where they are qualified, but excludes them from assignments to "units below the brigade level whose primary mission is to engage in direct combat on the ground."
The then-Defense Secretary Les Aspin defined direct ground combat as "engaging an enemy on the ground with ... weapons while being exposed to hostile fire and to a high probability of direct physical contact with the hostile force's personnel. Direct ground contact takes place well forward on the battlefield."
Defense acknowledged the rule hasn't stopped women from taking on combat tasks.
Pentagon press secretary Geoff Morrell said during a February briefing that "even though the law prohibits them from deploying in combat units that are below the brigade level, clearly, effectively, many women in uniform are in combat situation
s every day."
Nearly 236,000 women have been deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Of those, 128 have been killed, with 68 of the deaths taking place under hostile conditions.
"Women will continue to be assigned to units and positions that may necessitate combat actions within the scope of their restricted positioning -- situations for which they are fully trained and equipped to respond," Defense spokeswoman Eileen Lainez told Government Executive.
A Congressionally mandated 2007 report by the RAND Corp.'s National Defense Research Institute recommended that Defense revise its assignment policies to reflect the changing nature of warfare. "The focus on a defined enemy and the linear battlefield does fit the picture of traditional military operations but is inappropriate to Iraq," the report's summary stated.
While RAND stressed its "intent is not to prescribe policy," it asked the military to "consider whether the policy should remain focused on the assignment to units rather than the individual employment of women."
Thomas Donnelly, director of the Center for Defense Studies at the conservative think-tank American Enterprise Institute said the fact that women face combat situations in war zones is not sufficient basis for expanding their combat roles. "Women fighting on the field are a commonplace and understood phenomenon," he said. "But what happens under an extraordinary set of circumstances and what is expected to become standard practice are separate questions."
He added he would be surprised if the Army moved forward on lifting the ban, citing the lack of a vocal advocacy community and the fact "there are physical strength requirements for infantry that don't go away."
But a former WASP who was honored at the recent Congressional Gold Medal ceremony said she saw no reason women should be banned from combat. Josephine Swift, 92, who became a WASP to follow the lead of a Navy pilot brother, said: "If we are allowed to take on the same duties, what's the difference between men and women these days? If women want to fight for their country, it should be their privilege."
The first women who flew military aircraft were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor bestowed by Congress, this month in a highly anticipated ceremony at the Capitol. As aviators in noncombat roles, Women Airforce Service Pilots ferried and tested planes to free up male pilots for combat during World War II.
Women have earned the right to be in combat alongside their male counterparts in more aspects of military life since the 1940s. But they still are barred from being assigned to ground combat units. That could be about to change.
Last month, Army Chief of Staff Gen. George Casey said the military should review its policy outlining the role of women on the battlefield.
In congressional testimony in late February, Casey said, "I believe that it's time we take a look at what women are actually doing in Iraq and Afghanistan and to look at our policy."
He spoke a week after the Navy, with the support of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen, unveiled plans to lift the ban on women serving in submarines.
A 1994 Defense Department policy states that women can be assigned to all positions where they are qualified, but excludes them from assignments to "units below the brigade level whose primary mission is to engage in direct combat on the ground."
The then-Defense Secretary Les Aspin defined direct ground combat as "engaging an enemy on the ground with ... weapons while being exposed to hostile fire and to a high probability of direct physical contact with the hostile force's personnel. Direct ground contact takes place well forward on the battlefield."
Defense acknowledged the rule hasn't stopped women from taking on combat tasks.
Pentagon press secretary Geoff Morrell said during a February briefing that "even though the law prohibits them from deploying in combat units that are below the brigade level, clearly, effectively, many women in uniform are in combat situation
s every day."
Nearly 236,000 women have been deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Of those, 128 have been killed, with 68 of the deaths taking place under hostile conditions.
"Women will continue to be assigned to units and positions that may necessitate combat actions within the scope of their restricted positioning -- situations for which they are fully trained and equipped to respond," Defense spokeswoman Eileen Lainez told Government Executive.
A Congressionally mandated 2007 report by the RAND Corp.'s National Defense Research Institute recommended that Defense revise its assignment policies to reflect the changing nature of warfare. "The focus on a defined enemy and the linear battlefield does fit the picture of traditional military operations but is inappropriate to Iraq," the report's summary stated.
While RAND stressed its "intent is not to prescribe policy," it asked the military to "consider whether the policy should remain focused on the assignment to units rather than the individual employment of women."
Thomas Donnelly, director of the Center for Defense Studies at the conservative think-tank American Enterprise Institute said the fact that women face combat situations in war zones is not sufficient basis for expanding their combat roles. "Women fighting on the field are a commonplace and understood phenomenon," he said. "But what happens under an extraordinary set of circumstances and what is expected to become standard practice are separate questions."
He added he would be surprised if the Army moved forward on lifting the ban, citing the lack of a vocal advocacy community and the fact "there are physical strength requirements for infantry that don't go away."
But a former WASP who was honored at the recent Congressional Gold Medal ceremony said she saw no reason women should be banned from combat. Josephine Swift, 92, who became a WASP to follow the lead of a Navy pilot brother, said: "If we are allowed to take on the same duties, what's the difference between men and women these days? If women want to fight for their country, it should be their privilege."
Michelle Obama To Speak at White House COuncil on Women and Girls' Forum
This Wednesday, March 31, First Lady Michelle Obama will attend and deliver remarks at the White House Council on Women and Girls’ Forum on Workplace Flexibility in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building at 1:15 PM.
Both the President, who will be speaking at the forum later in the day, and the First Lady will discuss the importance of creating workplace practices that allow America’s working men and women to meet the demands of their jobs without sacrificing the needs of their families.
The forum will be an opportunity for CEOs, small business owners, labor leaders, and workplace policy experts to share their ideas and strategies for making the workplace more flexible for American workers and families. Media access for this event is expanded pool.
The entire forum, including all five breakout sessions, will be streamed on WhiteHouse.gov/live.
Both the President, who will be speaking at the forum later in the day, and the First Lady will discuss the importance of creating workplace practices that allow America’s working men and women to meet the demands of their jobs without sacrificing the needs of their families.
The forum will be an opportunity for CEOs, small business owners, labor leaders, and workplace policy experts to share their ideas and strategies for making the workplace more flexible for American workers and families. Media access for this event is expanded pool.
The entire forum, including all five breakout sessions, will be streamed on WhiteHouse.gov/live.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Oklahoman Elizabeth Warren Making Waves Defending Consumer in DC
Here is a lovely article about an Oklahoma woman, Elizabeth Warren, who The New York Times calls "the scourge of Wall Street bankers." They say :
Read the NYT article at http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/25/business/25warren.html
Ms. Warren has two roles here: officially, as head of Congressional oversight for the Troubled Asset Relief Program, and unofficially, as chief conceiver of and booster for a new consumer financial protection agency. Fusing those projects and her academic work, she has become the most prominent consumer advocate in years.
Read the NYT article at http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/25/business/25warren.html
Supporting Homeless Women Veterans (Does Oklahoma Need a Program Like This?)
Reading it made me wonder if there are organizations and programs targeting the needs of Oklahoma's women veterans. If you know of any, leave a comment, please, and tell us about the programs.
And what do you think about trying to replicate this facility in Oklahoma? Think there's a need for it here? Leave a comment! Jean
Supporting Homeless Women Veterans in Florida
by Tina Tchen on January 29, 2010
Last Friday, I had the opportunity to help break ground on a transitional housing facility for homeless women veterans in Cocoa, Florida. Named Operation Home Front and run by the Center for Drug-Free Living, the new facility will provide integrated services to help residents address warfare trauma and substance abuse, gain employment, and transition to permanent housing. Operation Home Front will foster a safe, supportive community by housing 28 homeless female veterans and their children together. At a time when an estimated 13,000 women veterans are homeless, Operation Home Front is an example of the comprehensive strategies we need to help this group build strong families and become self-sufficient.
I attended the groundbreaking with Tammy Duckworth, Department of Veterans Affairs Assistant Secretary for Public and Intergovernmental Affairs, and Gil Kerlikowske, Director of National Drug Control Policy. (You can read Director Kerlikowske’s Op-Ed on this project.)
In the afternoon, Director Kerlikowske and I had the privilege of visiting a treatment program where the Center for Drug-Free Living serves women and their children. We were able to meet with the women there and hear first-hand their stories of struggle, perseverance, and love for their children. The strength and courage of these women as they work to overcome their addictions was inspiring.
It was clear how important it is to provide treatment programs where women and their children can stay together – it’s better for these families, and it works. Studies show that 60% of the mothers in family-based treatment remain substance-free six months after discharge. Also, 88% of children treated in these programs remain stabilized and living with their mothers six months after discharge. This approach is also cost-effective: the costs of family-based treatment are offset three to four times by savings from reduced costs of crime, foster care, and adverse birth outcomes.
However, a mere 5% of treatment programs offer family-based services for both parents and children. These programs need to be replicated and expanded; public-private partnerships, like the one that funds Operation Home Front, can help make these lifesaving services available to more families.
Are you - or do you know - a homeless veteran? If so, read about help for them at the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans website.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Demographics: Older Oklahomans (from OK State Council on Aging)
661,098 Oklahomans 60+ (rank of 21st in US)
By 2020, 1 in 5 Oklahomans will be 60+
15.4% minority
68,255 age 85+
Raw number has increased twelve times since 1900
Life expectancy of 65+ is now 19.1 years
General indicators:
– High poverty rate (19th in US)
– Larger number of rural dwellers
– Very poor health indicators
– High disability ratio (8th in US)
– High Old-Age Dependency Ratio (14th in US)
– Ranked 6th in for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
In Oklahoma, the elderly segment of the population is growing dramatically. By 2020, one in seven Oklahomans will be at least 65 years of age, with the fastest growing segment being the 65-74 group followed by the 85 and older group.
Older Americans 2008: Key Indicators of Well-Being
Average life expectancy continues to increase, and today’s older Americans enjoy better health and financial security than any previous generation. However, rates of gain are inconsistent between the genders and across age brackets, income levels and racial and ethnic groups. Some critical disparities also exist between older Americans and older people in other industrialized countries. These and other trends are reported in Older Americans 2008: Key Indicators of Well-Being, a unique, comprehensive look at aging in the United States from the Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics.
http://www.agingstats.gov/agingstatsdotnet/Main_Site/Data/Data_2008.aspx
Health Characteristics of Adults Aged 55 Years and Over: United States, 2004–2007 http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhsr/nhsr016.pdf
Healthy aging has emerged as one of the major public health opportunities of the 21st century. Since the turn of the last century, there have been dramatic improvements in life expectancy. . . . Today, as U.S. adults live longer, there is growing emphasis on extending not just years of life, but years of quality life. Prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of many of the diseases traditionally associated with older age have contributed to the extension of healthy years for many adults. As our understanding of aging-related health issues expands, and advances in medical technology continue, the opportunities for older adults to live longer, healthier lives should continue to increase. In 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a report on the state of aging and health in America that described an action plan for improving the health of older Americans (5). This action plan includes injury prevention, reduction in prevalence of selected chronic health conditions, and increases in prevalence of health-promoting behaviors and use of preventive health services.
By 2020, 1 in 5 Oklahomans will be 60+
15.4% minority
68,255 age 85+
Raw number has increased twelve times since 1900
Life expectancy of 65+ is now 19.1 years
General indicators:
– High poverty rate (19th in US)
– Larger number of rural dwellers
– Very poor health indicators
– High disability ratio (8th in US)
– High Old-Age Dependency Ratio (14th in US)
– Ranked 6th in for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
In Oklahoma, the elderly segment of the population is growing dramatically. By 2020, one in seven Oklahomans will be at least 65 years of age, with the fastest growing segment being the 65-74 group followed by the 85 and older group.
Older Americans 2008: Key Indicators of Well-Being
Average life expectancy continues to increase, and today’s older Americans enjoy better health and financial security than any previous generation. However, rates of gain are inconsistent between the genders and across age brackets, income levels and racial and ethnic groups. Some critical disparities also exist between older Americans and older people in other industrialized countries. These and other trends are reported in Older Americans 2008: Key Indicators of Well-Being, a unique, comprehensive look at aging in the United States from the Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics.
http://www.agingstats.gov/agingstatsdotnet/Main_Site/Data/Data_2008.aspx
Health Characteristics of Adults Aged 55 Years and Over: United States, 2004–2007 http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhsr/nhsr016.pdf
Healthy aging has emerged as one of the major public health opportunities of the 21st century. Since the turn of the last century, there have been dramatic improvements in life expectancy. . . . Today, as U.S. adults live longer, there is growing emphasis on extending not just years of life, but years of quality life. Prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of many of the diseases traditionally associated with older age have contributed to the extension of healthy years for many adults. As our understanding of aging-related health issues expands, and advances in medical technology continue, the opportunities for older adults to live longer, healthier lives should continue to increase. In 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a report on the state of aging and health in America that described an action plan for improving the health of older Americans (5). This action plan includes injury prevention, reduction in prevalence of selected chronic health conditions, and increases in prevalence of health-promoting behaviors and use of preventive health services.
UCO Students Becoming "Disability Aware"
Kudos to University of Central Oklahoma for hosting Disability Week and giving students ways to recognize barriers that people with disabilities cope with every day. My grandmother was wheelchair bound towards the end of her life and we traveled across the country together. What a nightmare. It was a rude awakening for me. There were plenty of places you just couldn't go. But that was then.
Now things are better because of passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, right?! Not really. There are "grandfather clauses" and budget constraints and other reasons for not making buildings accessible for some people. Case in point: Get in a wheel chair and try maneuvering your way in and out of buildings on the University of Oklahoma's Norman campus.
I ran a program there where one participant literally had to enter one building through the delivery entrance, maneuver her way a working kitchen and come out into the dining room in order to get into the building at all. That left her in tears and me humiliated for OU's foot dragging at making their buildings ADA compliant. We actually chose to not hold a dinner session in Monnet Hall because, whether they tried to enter from the east or the west, someone would have had to carry women in wheelchairs up several steps just to get them to the first floor.
I'd post a link to the article by Sarah Hill in The Oklahoman March 24, 2010 entitled "disability awareness is campus objective" but I can't for the life of me find it on the NewsOK website. Sorry Sarah - great article! (If anyone can find the link, email it to me and I'll post it. Thanks!)
Now things are better because of passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, right?! Not really. There are "grandfather clauses" and budget constraints and other reasons for not making buildings accessible for some people. Case in point: Get in a wheel chair and try maneuvering your way in and out of buildings on the University of Oklahoma's Norman campus.
I ran a program there where one participant literally had to enter one building through the delivery entrance, maneuver her way a working kitchen and come out into the dining room in order to get into the building at all. That left her in tears and me humiliated for OU's foot dragging at making their buildings ADA compliant. We actually chose to not hold a dinner session in Monnet Hall because, whether they tried to enter from the east or the west, someone would have had to carry women in wheelchairs up several steps just to get them to the first floor.
I'd post a link to the article by Sarah Hill in The Oklahoman March 24, 2010 entitled "disability awareness is campus objective" but I can't for the life of me find it on the NewsOK website. Sorry Sarah - great article! (If anyone can find the link, email it to me and I'll post it. Thanks!)
Friday, March 26, 2010
Check out new Oklahoma blog "Living With Grace"
Announcing a brand new blog authored by an Oklahoma woman. It is "Living With Grace" and you'll find it at www.GracieLane.com.
Grace is a writer, photographer, jewelry designer, observer, traveler, and foodie. Among other things, she'll be posting on dealing with aging parents, grandbabies and hot flashes and wonders, "Do people my age read blogs?" Well, I do and I think people of ALL AGES will enjoy following her blog.
So go check out Living With Grace. If you like what you see, please subscribe and leave a comment -- then tell your friends to check out Living With Grace, too!
Grace is a writer, photographer, jewelry designer, observer, traveler, and foodie. Among other things, she'll be posting on dealing with aging parents, grandbabies and hot flashes and wonders, "Do people my age read blogs?" Well, I do and I think people of ALL AGES will enjoy following her blog.
So go check out Living With Grace. If you like what you see, please subscribe and leave a comment -- then tell your friends to check out Living With Grace, too!
Newsweek Asks of Working Women "Are We There Yet?"
The March 29, 2010 edition of NEWSWEEK Magazine has an article that asks, "Are We There Yet?" The sub title is "In 1970, 46 women filed a landmark gender-discrimination case. Their employer was NEWSWEEK. Forty years later, their contemporary counterparts question how much has actually changed." It's a MUST READ so read it NOW by clicking here. Here are some highlights:
U.S. Department of Education data show that a year out of school, despite having earned higher college GPAs in every subject, young women will take home, on average across all professions, just 80 percent of what their male colleagues do. Even at the top end, female M.B.A.s make $4,600 less per year in their first job out of business school, according to a new Catalyst study.
Motherhood has long been the explanation for the persistent pay gap, yet a decade out of college, full-time working women who haven't had children still make 77 cents on the male dollar.And
Over dinner one night, a young researcher poured out her frustration to a lawyer friend, who ordered her to call the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. She did, and slowly her colleagues signed on to a class-action suit. They found a fiery young lawyer—now D.C. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton—and they waited, nervously, until the time was right.The bottom line:
...A year later, as the national women's movement gathered steam, NEWSWEEK's all-male management decided to put feminism on their cover. Oblivious to the rebellion brewing at home, they looked past the legions of NEWSWEEK women and went outside the building for a writer—to the wife of one of their top brass, whom they would ultimately describe, in an editor's note, as "a top-flight journalist who is also a woman." It was the final straw. The night before the issue hit newsstands, the NEWSWEEK women sent a memo announcing a press conference. They pooled their money to fly a colleague to Washington to present a copy to Katharine Graham, the magazine's owner, who later asked, "Which side am I supposed to be on?"
"The Global Gender Gap Index—a ranking of women's educational, health, political, and financial standing by the World Economic Forum—found that from 2006 to 2009 the United States had fallen from 23rd to 31st, behind Cuba and just above Namibia...
Exhibit A: the four most common female professions today are secretary, registered nurse, teacher, and cashier—low-paying, "pink collar" jobs that employ 43 percent of all women. Swap "domestic help" for nurse and you'd be looking at the top female jobs from 1960, back when want ads were segregated by gender.When I moved from Chigo to Tulsa in 1970, the Tulsa World want ads were still segregated by gender! Read the full article; then you might like to go to Amazon and buy a copy of In Our Time: A Memoir of a Revolution by Susan Brownmiller.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
OKC resident Tammy Gray-Steele's National Women in Agriculture Association
There was a nice profile on Tammy Grey-Steele in The Oklahoman March 24th. She is Executive Director of the National Women in Agriculture Association. It is a new organization; she founded it 2 years ago. She calls herself an "AgriDiva." Click here to read "City resident educates women in agriculture."
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Florence Mubichi
To share this post with others, just send them the following URL:
http://oklahomawomen.blogspot.com/2010/03/florence-mubichi.html
Click on the following links below to view:
3-19-2101 Florence Mubichi Funeral Announcement
Sign the Forence Mubichi Condolence Guestbook
Order of Service for Florence Mubichi's Funeral Service in Meru, Kenya held on 3-23-2010
Cover - Order of Service for Florence Mubici's Funeral Service in Meru, Kenya on 3-23-2010
Eulogy for Florence Mubich from 3-23-2010 Funeral Service in Meru, Kenya
Email 3-24-2010 from Fridah Mubichi reporting on Florence Mubichi's funeral
Make a donation to the MKM Foundation (Kenya) via Seeds of Grace Foundation (USA)
View the Miriam Kanana Mubichi Foundation website
Miriam Kanana Mubichi Foundation on Facebook
Fridah Mubichi on Facebook
Ravena Mubichi on Facebook
Florence Mubichi on Facebook (This will be converted to a Memorial Page soon)
I will add to the above following Florence's Memorial Service March 25, 2010 at Nichls Hills United Methodist Church and as we hear more from Steven, Fridah, Ravena and Alexia and others.
Steve Wozniak to Judge Robotics Competition in OKC
The Oklahoman ran an article today announcing "Apple co-founder will judge robots." Yup; Woz is coming to Oklahoma City! You can read the full story here.
Toshiba Prize Goes to Oklahoma Girl Geeks @ John Ross Elmentary School
There is a lovely article in The Oklahoman today about Toshiba honoring four girls at Edmond's John Ross Elementary School. They each won a digital cameras, a plaque and a laptop for their school for their idea to save lives. Congratulations Rachel Blitz, Allie Karnig, Grace Plant and Reia Storch. Read the full article here.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Another link to KGOU's MP3 on Women in Prison in Oklahoma
Below is from KGOU - the Central Oklahoma Local NPR affiliate station in Norman.
It tells about their recently broadcast program on Oklahoma women incarcerated.
Click on the MP3 to listen to the program.
Oklahoma Voices: Women In Prison
March 22, 2010
March 22, 2010
MP3Efforts to reduce the number of women in Oklahoma prisons are beginning to gain more attention of leaders and policy makers in the state. In late January Oklahoma Christian University hosted a full day of speeches and panel discussions why the state has this problem and what could possibly be done about. KGOU aired a few of those presentations including one from the Deputy Director of Female Offender Operations with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections Dr. Laura Pitman. Dr. Susan Sharp with the University of Oklahoma's Sociology Dept. talks about the results of a recent study on Oklahoma Incarcerated Women and Their Children.
Listen to Great KGOU Program on Incarceration of Oklahoma Women
KGOU public radio at the University of Oklahoma featured an excellent session of their "Oklahoma Voices" program yesterday. It focused on presentations from the recent "Complex Dialogues" conference on Oklahoma 's high rate of incarcerating women. (We're #1 at double the national average.)
You can listen to the program by clicking here or going to http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/notes/kgou-your-npr-source/oklahoma-voices-women-in-prison/379494350302 and then clicking on "mp3" at the end of the post.
You can listen to the program by clicking here or going to http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/notes/kgou-your-npr-source/oklahoma-voices-women-in-prison/379494350302 and then clicking on "mp3" at the end of the post.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Tulsa Women Share Personal Stories of Terror and Triumph in New Film
Wilma Lively, Director of DaySpring Villa Women's and Children's Shelter in Tulsa reports her facility is featured in a new documentary film that spotlights Tulsa-area domestic violence. Here is her press release of March 16, 2010.
DaySpring Villa, one of two domestic violence shelters in the Tulsa metro area, and Oklahoma’s only certified faith-based shelter for battered women and their children, announced today the release of Into the Light, a 40-minute documentary film produced by Comm-Arts that takes a sobering look at domestic violence through the eyes of three Tulsa women and the women of DaySpring Villa who work with victims of abuse.
Wilma Lively, executive director of DaySpring Villa, hopes the film and its message will gain broader attention through screenings at churches, businesses, schools, colleges and other organizations throughout the state.
“I believe people will be quite surprised by what they see and hear in this film,” Lively said. “The three women featured are very candid about their personal experiences and some of what they say is tough to hear, but it was important that we show the reality of domestic violence right here in our own backyard.”
Into the Light follows the stories of Christy, Emily and Amy as they come to terms with their abusive situations and work toward the freedoms they were once forbidden to even consider. Watching these women wrest free of their abuser’s strangleholds and dare to reach for their independence is both heartbreaking and triumphant, and not all three of the women succeed. This, said Lively, underscores the harsh reality of domestic violence as the average number of times a woman returns to her abuser before permanently ending the relationship is an astonishing 13.
“These women demonstrated amazing courage by not only agreeing to appear in the film but by dispelling the myth that a victim of domestic violence looks a certain way,” said Vickie Dawkins-Kersey, director of Into the Light. “Our goal was to capture their experiences honestly and with integrity, but also to show audiences how lives can be literally transformed as a result of organizations like DaySpring Villa.”
Businesses, churches, organizations and cinematic venues are encouraged to reserve a copy of Into the Light by calling Wilma Lively at 918-245-4075. To learn more about DaySpring Villa, visit www.dayspringvilla.com.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Best Books on Woman Suffrage
The Wall Street Journal in October, 2009, listed the following books as the 5 best books on woman suffrage:
In Her Own Right by Elizabeth Griffith
Century of Struggle by Eleanor Flexner
New Women of the New South by Marjorie Spruill Wheeler
Winning the Vote by Robert P J Cooney, Jr.
Harriot Stanton Blatch and the Winning of Woman Suffrage by Ellen Carol DuBois
In Her Own Right by Elizabeth Griffith
Century of Struggle by Eleanor Flexner
New Women of the New South by Marjorie Spruill Wheeler
Winning the Vote by Robert P J Cooney, Jr.
Harriot Stanton Blatch and the Winning of Woman Suffrage by Ellen Carol DuBois
Friday, March 19, 2010
Report: 50 Years of Unmarried Americans (Women's Voices-Women's Vote)
Women's Voices. Women Vote has released a comprehensive and detailed demographic portrayal of unmarried Americans. The report -- 50 Years of Unmarried America: The Status and Importance of Unmarried America -- charts a seismic shift since 1960, when America moved from a nation where marriage was the norm to today -- where 45 percent of all adults in the United States are unmarried and half of all women live on their own. It is pretty interesting! (I was surprised at how the percentage of unmarrieds in the US has risen in recent decades.)
Oklahoma Authors M.E. Cooper & Merline Lovelace
Check out this nice article in the Oklahoman March 11, 2010 on Oklahoma author M.E. (Mary Ellen) Cooper.You can also read about her here. The Journal Record recently ran a nice article about Merline Lovelace who lives in Oklahoma and has written numerous romances - like 86! Her latest is Baby, Its Cold Out There.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Colorado First in World to Elect Women to the Legislature
From the National Conference of State Legislatures:
In honor of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day we report our belief that Colorado’s General Assembly holds the distinction of being the first legislature or parliament in the world to elect female members. Clara Cressingham, Carrie Holly and Frances Klock were elected to the Colorado House of Representatives in 1894, after a popular referendum to grant women full suffrage passed in 1893. The three women, all from the Denver area, served in the House for one term.
Read their full blog post here.
In honor of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day we report our belief that Colorado’s General Assembly holds the distinction of being the first legislature or parliament in the world to elect female members. Clara Cressingham, Carrie Holly and Frances Klock were elected to the Colorado House of Representatives in 1894, after a popular referendum to grant women full suffrage passed in 1893. The three women, all from the Denver area, served in the House for one term.
Read their full blog post here.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
OJJDP Issues Fact Sheet Addressing Girls' Delinquency
The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) has published "Girls' Delinquency" -- a 4-page In Focus fact sheet that reviews trends in girls' delinquency and describes research conducted by OJJDP's Girls Study Group. It also reports on OJJDP programs and publications that address girls' delinquency.
"Girls' Delinquency” (NCJ 228414) is available at http://ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/publications/PubAbstract.asp?pubi=250433.
Print copies may be ordered online at www.ncjrs.gov/App/ShoppingCart/ShopCart.aspx?item=NCJ+228414&repro=0.
For further information about girls' delinquency, visit OJJDP's Girls' Delinquency page at ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/programs/girlsdelinquency.html.
"Girls' Delinquency” (NCJ 228414) is available at http://ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/publications/PubAbstract.asp?pubi=250433.
Print copies may be ordered online at www.ncjrs.gov/App/ShoppingCart/ShopCart.aspx?item=NCJ+228414&repro=0.
For further information about girls' delinquency, visit OJJDP's Girls' Delinquency page at ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/programs/girlsdelinquency.html.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
NYT Reports That C-Span Has Put Its Full Archives on the Web
Hey, political junkies, here's good news in the form of a New York Times article by Brian Stelter on March15, 2010:
WASHINGTON — Researchers, political satirists and partisan mudslingers, take note: C-Span has uploaded virtually every minute of its video archives to the Internet.
The archives, at C-SpanVideo.org, cover 23 years of history and five presidential administrations and are sure to provide new fodder for pundits and politicians alike. The network will formally announce the completion of the C-Span Video Library on Wednesday. Read balance of story here.
WASHINGTON — Researchers, political satirists and partisan mudslingers, take note: C-Span has uploaded virtually every minute of its video archives to the Internet.
The archives, at C-SpanVideo.org, cover 23 years of history and five presidential administrations and are sure to provide new fodder for pundits and politicians alike. The network will formally announce the completion of the C-Span Video Library on Wednesday. Read balance of story here.
Man Surrenders to Police in Ex-Wife's Death
OKLAHOMA CITY – A man surrendered to police in the death of his ex-wife, police said.
Oklahoma City police received a call about a deceased woman at about 9:30 a.m. Saturday, March 13, 2010. Police arrived to find 27-year-old Cindy Lorine Watson's body in the 12000 block of S.W. 3rd Street.
Police said Watson's ex-husband, 24-year-old William M. Watson, turned himself in at the Shawnee Police Department Monday in reference to the incident.
Watson was transported to the Oklahoma City Police headquarters where he was interviewed and subsequently booked into the Oklahoma County jail on one count of first-degree murder in the death of his ex-wife.
Source. News9.com
------------
Oklahoma City police received a call about a deceased woman at about 9:30 a.m. Saturday, March 13, 2010. Police arrived to find 27-year-old Cindy Lorine Watson's body in the 12000 block of S.W. 3rd Street.
Police said Watson's ex-husband, 24-year-old William M. Watson, turned himself in at the Shawnee Police Department Monday in reference to the incident.
Watson was transported to the Oklahoma City Police headquarters where he was interviewed and subsequently booked into the Oklahoma County jail on one count of first-degree murder in the death of his ex-wife.
Source. News9.com
------------
Oklahoma ranks around 9th in the number of men killing women. Looks like our ranking may be climbing in 2010. JSW
Leftwich Bill to Give Domestic Violence Victims Greater Protection Awaits House Action
Legislation to give additional protection to domestic violence victims is now awaiting action in the House of Representatives. Senate Bill 2022, by Sen. Debbe Leftwich, D-Oklahoma City, and Rep. Sue Tibbs, R-Tulsa, expands current law by enabling victims to see exactly where their abusers are via GPS.
Two years ago, Leftwich authored and passed legislation to allow court-ordered GPS tracking of domestic abusers. Law enforcement can access their location and determine if they are in violation of any court orders regarding proximity to their victim.
“SB 2022 will empower victims of domestic violence by giving them access to that same information,” Leftwich said. “They can get online and see exactly where their abuser is in real time. Victims can also obtain an electronic device that will warn them if their abuser approaches within a certain distance.”
Leftwich stressed the legislation would not have any fiscal impact on the state, the victim or even the abuser—however it could prevent further abuse.
“Overwhelmingly, the victims of domestic violence are women and children who are stalked and intimidated by their abuser,” Leftwich said. “A protective order from a court is a piece of paper that does nothing to actually prevent future attacks—but if the victim can see where her abuser is and avoid that location, or alert law enforcement if necessary, then I believe we can give greater protection to victims of domestic violence.”
SB 2022 has been formally introduced in the House. The next step will be for the bill to be assigned to and heard by a House committee.
SOurce. Office of Senator Leftwich (405-521-5557)
Two years ago, Leftwich authored and passed legislation to allow court-ordered GPS tracking of domestic abusers. Law enforcement can access their location and determine if they are in violation of any court orders regarding proximity to their victim.
“SB 2022 will empower victims of domestic violence by giving them access to that same information,” Leftwich said. “They can get online and see exactly where their abuser is in real time. Victims can also obtain an electronic device that will warn them if their abuser approaches within a certain distance.”
Leftwich stressed the legislation would not have any fiscal impact on the state, the victim or even the abuser—however it could prevent further abuse.
“Overwhelmingly, the victims of domestic violence are women and children who are stalked and intimidated by their abuser,” Leftwich said. “A protective order from a court is a piece of paper that does nothing to actually prevent future attacks—but if the victim can see where her abuser is and avoid that location, or alert law enforcement if necessary, then I believe we can give greater protection to victims of domestic violence.”
SB 2022 has been formally introduced in the House. The next step will be for the bill to be assigned to and heard by a House committee.
SOurce. Office of Senator Leftwich (405-521-5557)
Terry Neese Meeting with Laura Bush, Obama Administration Official During Women’s History Month
Oklahoma City non-profit founder and CEO Terry Neese will participate on Friday in a special meeting and symposium on educating and empowering women in Afghanistan.
As a member of the U.S.-Afghan Women’s Council, Neese will be attending the event in Dallas to participate with other Council members and representatives from Afghanistan, as well as leaders from the U.S. government. The group will join Bush and U.S. Ambassador for Global Women’s Issues Melanne Verveer in a discussion about the progress made by and the challenges still facing Afghan women and girls. President Obama appointed Verveer to this position at the U.S. State Department about a year ago.
“One of our PEACE THROUGH BUSINESS graduates, Andeisha Farid, will be speaking to the Council, detailing her experience as a business owner and as someone who is making a real difference in her country,” Neese said. “Andeisha is the founder of several orphanages in Afghanistan and last August, Andeisha mentored with Freda Deskin, founder and CEO of ASTEC Charter School. Andeisha and Freda continue to mentor and find ways to help more Afghan people. I am very proud of Oklahoma women business owners who give their and energy to our PEACE THROUGH BUSINESS students.”
The Council meeting and education conference will be held at the George W. Bush Institute on the campus of Southern Methodist University from 10:30 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
The Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women, a 501(c)3 organization, created the PEACE THROUGH BUSINESS program, which provides long-term business training to female entrepreneurs from Afghanistan and Rwanda. Education is provided in both countries, as well as in the United States. Since the program’s inception in 2006, 150 women have been directly trained and educated.
Many Oklahoma women business owners have served as mentors, including Deskin, Nancy Hyde of Hyde & Company CPAs, Mary Melon of the Journal Record, and Angie Hendricks of Bentley Hedges Travel.
--------
About The Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women: The IEEW is a 501(c)3 non-profit empowering women to grow their businesses, pursue greater entrepreneurial ventures and become more active public policy advocates. The Institute accomplishes this mission by focusing on education, mentorship and coaching women in the United States and abroad who are seeking to acquire entrepreneurial skills to help start and grow a business.
As a member of the U.S.-Afghan Women’s Council, Neese will be attending the event in Dallas to participate with other Council members and representatives from Afghanistan, as well as leaders from the U.S. government. The group will join Bush and U.S. Ambassador for Global Women’s Issues Melanne Verveer in a discussion about the progress made by and the challenges still facing Afghan women and girls. President Obama appointed Verveer to this position at the U.S. State Department about a year ago.
“One of our PEACE THROUGH BUSINESS graduates, Andeisha Farid, will be speaking to the Council, detailing her experience as a business owner and as someone who is making a real difference in her country,” Neese said. “Andeisha is the founder of several orphanages in Afghanistan and last August, Andeisha mentored with Freda Deskin, founder and CEO of ASTEC Charter School. Andeisha and Freda continue to mentor and find ways to help more Afghan people. I am very proud of Oklahoma women business owners who give their and energy to our PEACE THROUGH BUSINESS students.”
The Council meeting and education conference will be held at the George W. Bush Institute on the campus of Southern Methodist University from 10:30 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
The Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women, a 501(c)3 organization, created the PEACE THROUGH BUSINESS program, which provides long-term business training to female entrepreneurs from Afghanistan and Rwanda. Education is provided in both countries, as well as in the United States. Since the program’s inception in 2006, 150 women have been directly trained and educated.
Many Oklahoma women business owners have served as mentors, including Deskin, Nancy Hyde of Hyde & Company CPAs, Mary Melon of the Journal Record, and Angie Hendricks of Bentley Hedges Travel.
--------
About The Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women: The IEEW is a 501(c)3 non-profit empowering women to grow their businesses, pursue greater entrepreneurial ventures and become more active public policy advocates. The Institute accomplishes this mission by focusing on education, mentorship and coaching women in the United States and abroad who are seeking to acquire entrepreneurial skills to help start and grow a business.
Phase II Wireless Lets 911 on Cell Phones Give Your Location Too
There was an article in The Oklahoman on March 10, 2010 entitled "Police track down 911 call on cell" about an attack on a woman who dialed 911 on her cell phone and left the call open while she was being assaulted. In the "good old days," police couldn't easily identify your location on a cell phone. But the City of Midwest City is part of the Phase 2 Wireless program which can identify the cell phone user's location. So the police arrived and arrested the attacker on suspicion of attempted first-degree rape and domestic assault and battery. Very cool. Read the full article here.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Oklahoma Senate Bill Protecting Domestic Violence Victims from Insurance Discrimination Moves to House
The Oklahoma State Senate unanimously approved SB 1251 last Wednesday which would protect victims of domestic violence from being denied insurance coverage. If approved, any insurance plan issued or renewed on or after November 1, 2010, would be prohibited from considering domestic abuse as a preexisting condition. There was an article this Friday in The Journal Record noting no domestic violence professionals in Oklahoma could cite a case an instance where an insurance company has actually discriminated this way but it probably doesn't hurt to have this law on the books just in case!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Fort Sill Graduates First Gender-Integrated Basic Combat Class
Fort Sill graduated its first gender-integrated Basic Combat Training class at Fort Sill last Friday. It was the first class at Ft. Sill to include both men and women in over 10 years. Guest speaker Lt. Col. Todd Wasmund, commander of 1st Battalion, 17th Field Artillery, said,
Read the full newspaper article here.
"Many expected that gender-integrated training, as the Army calls it, would present new challenges." But he cited a recent news article in which a drill sergeant said, "The fact that female privates are here hasn't changed anything, because they're soldiers just like the males. By all accounts, all of you have proven it's really no big deal." He added, "It's not about men and women. It's about soldiers. All of you have completed the same tough and realistic Basic Combat Training that is designed to prepare you for the challenges and opportunities that await you."
Read the full newspaper article here.
OKC Advertising Exec Rhonda Hooper Featured
The Oklahoman had a nice profile March 7th on advertising executive Rhonda Hooper. She is CEO of Jordan Associates in Oklahoma City. You can read the article at http://newsok.com/oklahoma-advertising-executive-seeks-results/article/3444531?custom_click=pod_headline_executive-qa
I just love Backupify.com
I just love Backupify. Maybe because it is just so fun to say. More likely because the founders talk like real people instead of lawyers or academics or technicians. Here is how they explained their privacy policy in a recent blog post:
"We don’t do anything with your data once it is backed up. We don’t look at it, we don’t sell it, we don’t analyze it, we don’t modify it. Our privacy policy is that you own your data and you should be in control. We don’t own your data, we just provide software to give you more control over your stuff. We charge for our service, so we never have to resort to analyzing your data so that we can sell advertising against it or anything like that. You will never get email from us unless you opt-in for it.But I fear they may back away from this policy. In the post above they conclude, "How would you write Backupify’s privacy policy? What clauses should it contain? Is it all or nothing, or do you opt-in by feature? Your feedback may well alter the very future of Backupify. Seriously." Okay, so I also love them because they treat us with respect! Check out this service that backs up your cloud based data (Twitter, Friendfeed, Blogger, Goodle Docs, Facedbook, etc).
Backupify was started on the premise that your data is yours and you should not leave it locked up in all of these online systems. We believe strongly in freedom and privacy."
Saturday, March 13, 2010
House Bill 2634 Addresses Marriage and More
The Oklahoma House of Representatives this week passed House Bill 2634 which mandates that couples must receive 2 hours of premarital couseling before they can get married in Oklahoma. It also addresses covenant marriage, abolishes common law marriage after November 1 and more. Read the Oklahoman story here.
Willa Johnson seeks re-election, OCU wins women's wrestling national title
Here's more interesting Oklahoma women news:
Oklahoma District 1 County Commissioner Willa Johnson has announced that she is seeking re-election. Here is a City Sentinel article about it.
OCU has won the women's wrestling national title! Read about it here.
Oklahoma District 1 County Commissioner Willa Johnson has announced that she is seeking re-election. Here is a City Sentinel article about it.
OCU has won the women's wrestling national title! Read about it here.
Ali Harter, Maya Stewart, Ann Way, Dana Orwig, Lazelle Benefield
Ali Harter is a 25-year old singer-song writer from Choctow, Oklahoma. She recently had two of her songs featured on the television show "Grey's Anatomy." Read article here.
Maya Stewart is a 30-year old from the small town of Washington in McClain County, Oklahoma. A member of the Chickasaw, Muscogee and Choctow tribes, she has a line of women's handbags that bring attention to the beautiful side on American Indian designs. Read article here.
Ann Way is now director of the Mary Abbott Children's House in Norman
Dana Orwig has announced that she is running for the Oklahoma House District 87 seat in northwest Oklahoma City. Orwig is a deacon in the Episcopal Church and an assistant chaplain for St. John's Episcopal Church. Here is a City Sentinel article about her announcement.
And Lazelle Benefield has been named dean of the OU College of Nursing. I am going to miss Dean Carole Kenner, who has gone to be Dean of a nursing school in Boston. Read article about Benefield here.
Maya Stewart is a 30-year old from the small town of Washington in McClain County, Oklahoma. A member of the Chickasaw, Muscogee and Choctow tribes, she has a line of women's handbags that bring attention to the beautiful side on American Indian designs. Read article here.
Ann Way is now director of the Mary Abbott Children's House in Norman
Dana Orwig has announced that she is running for the Oklahoma House District 87 seat in northwest Oklahoma City. Orwig is a deacon in the Episcopal Church and an assistant chaplain for St. John's Episcopal Church. Here is a City Sentinel article about her announcement.
And Lazelle Benefield has been named dean of the OU College of Nursing. I am going to miss Dean Carole Kenner, who has gone to be Dean of a nursing school in Boston. Read article about Benefield here.
More Men Filing Sexual Harassment Cases Against Men
It seems the number of cases of sexual harassment brought by men against men is rising. Maybe because the stigma isn't so great these days so more are willing to go public. Maybe there are more instances than in the past. According to a recent AP article, "the number of cases filed by men has grown steadily since the landmark Supreme Court ruling in 1998 held that same-sex harassment is a valid claim under federal anti-discrimination laws." Click here to read the full article.
Life's A Little Easier for Nursing Mothers in Oklahoma Now
When I read newspapers and magazines, a small part of my brain is always scanning for news/data/experts/cool folks in the area of Oklahoma and women - or, ideally, both. I tend to clip and stack until I can find a quiet moment to curl up and read through them. Tonight I thought I'd mention a few articles that recently caught my eye.
Here is one from The Oklahoman entitled Workplaces Nurture Nursing Moms. It is about a law passed back in 2006 "requiring employers to allow nursing mothers the ability to express milk during lunch, breaks and other unpaid times." OMG the male legislators at the State Capitol couldn't even talk about that bill without giggling, smirking and guffawing! But it passed and that's what matters and now the OK Department of Health has a BreastFeedingWorks! initiative.
Here is one from The Oklahoman entitled Workplaces Nurture Nursing Moms. It is about a law passed back in 2006 "requiring employers to allow nursing mothers the ability to express milk during lunch, breaks and other unpaid times." OMG the male legislators at the State Capitol couldn't even talk about that bill without giggling, smirking and guffawing! But it passed and that's what matters and now the OK Department of Health has a BreastFeedingWorks! initiative.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Breast Cancer Awareness Twitter Background
http://www.twitrbackgrounds.com/artistic-twitter-backgrounds/fight-breast-cancer
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The Values Behind International Women's Day (Labor Secty Hilda Solis)
US Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis spoke yesterday on "The Values Behind International Women's Day." I could relate to her opening lines:
"I grew up in a time when graduating from high school was an accomplishment, and expectations of young women were very low...especially for women of color. My high school guidance counselor told me that I was best suited for a career as a secretary... an office assistant to be exact. Well, he was right after all. I ended up as a Secretary, but not quite the one he had in mind."
I still vividly recall the high school guidance counselor who said I wasn't college material; he also said it was wrong for women to be taking up seats in colleges that men had a right to fill. (Some of that thinking still persists which is why the Oklahoma Women's Coalition is looking into ways to remove barriers that prevent single mothers from completing college.)
Solis concluded that:
Since families are depending more and more on working women's wages it is more important now than ever that we:
• Encourage and support more young women in non-traditional and science, technology, engineering, math and health fields;
• Demand fair and equitable wages and work to close the pay gap;
• Reject discrimination and harassment in the workplace; and
• Provide flexible workplace and leave options, including paid family leave, child care benefits and support services.
I am proud to say that my Department is doing all it can to support women.
You can view Solis' full remarks at http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/03/09/values-behind-international-women-s-day-0
"I grew up in a time when graduating from high school was an accomplishment, and expectations of young women were very low...especially for women of color. My high school guidance counselor told me that I was best suited for a career as a secretary... an office assistant to be exact. Well, he was right after all. I ended up as a Secretary, but not quite the one he had in mind."
I still vividly recall the high school guidance counselor who said I wasn't college material; he also said it was wrong for women to be taking up seats in colleges that men had a right to fill. (Some of that thinking still persists which is why the Oklahoma Women's Coalition is looking into ways to remove barriers that prevent single mothers from completing college.)
Solis concluded that:
Since families are depending more and more on working women's wages it is more important now than ever that we:
• Encourage and support more young women in non-traditional and science, technology, engineering, math and health fields;
• Demand fair and equitable wages and work to close the pay gap;
• Reject discrimination and harassment in the workplace; and
• Provide flexible workplace and leave options, including paid family leave, child care benefits and support services.
I am proud to say that my Department is doing all it can to support women.
You can view Solis' full remarks at http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/03/09/values-behind-international-women-s-day-0
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Help Increase Ovarian Cancer Awareness in Oklahoma
Awareness of the factors surrounding Ovarian Cancer are evolving and more research is happening. Be aware of the symptoms. I have a very dear friend who is battling ovarian cancer. I carry cards from the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition with me and pass them to women from time to time.
Ovarian cancer is a silent killer of women. Be aware of your body and problems that could be symptomatic. Nobody but you can know if something is just not right. Stay healthy, eat healthy and be sure to get your annual physicals and tell your doctor about anything out of the ordinary when you are not feeling up to par. Symptoms include:
• Pelvic or abdominal pain or discomfort
• Vague but persistent gastrointestinal upsets such as gas, nausea, and indigestion
• Frequency and or urgency of urination in the absence of an infection
• Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
• Pelvic and or abdominal swelling, bloating and or feeling of fullness
• Ongoing unusual fatigue
• Unexplained changes in bowel habits
• If symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, consult your physician
All women are at risk, even if you have had your ovaries removed with a complete hysterectomy.
Early detection increases survival rate.
A pap Test does not detect ovarian cancer.
There are national resources like the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, and the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition but there is also an Oklahoma program: HOPE.
H.O.P.E. in Oklahoma was first organized in 2001 as an ovarian cancer nonprofit and has since expanded its educational and awareness efforts to all gynecologic cancers. Their ovarian cancer awareness efforts, however, have been most aggressive in the past year to educate women and their doctors about the disease’s vague symptoms. HOPE has set up literature display booths at many events in Oklahoma, including the Oklahoma City Home & Garden Show, People Connected by Cancer, and Cervical and Breast Cancer Awareness day at the state capitol and at the Oklahoma City Junior League Mistletoe Market. Approximately 3,500 women were reached by handing out symptom cards for ovarian cancer in 2009. They also plan to reach every OB/GYN, internist, and family physician in Oklahoma. HOPE plans to mail approximately one hundred thousand ovarian cancer symptom cards to doctors all over the state. By asking doctors to hand out these cards personally, it will give them and their patients an opportunity to learn and discuss the all-too-often overlooked indicators of ovarian cancer. For more information about HOPE in Oklahoma, contact Marilyn Dewey, President, at P.O. Box 94614, Oklahoma City, OK 73143, or email marsmidew@pldi.net.
Ovarian cancer is a silent killer of women. Be aware of your body and problems that could be symptomatic. Nobody but you can know if something is just not right. Stay healthy, eat healthy and be sure to get your annual physicals and tell your doctor about anything out of the ordinary when you are not feeling up to par. Symptoms include:
• Pelvic or abdominal pain or discomfort
• Vague but persistent gastrointestinal upsets such as gas, nausea, and indigestion
• Frequency and or urgency of urination in the absence of an infection
• Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
• Pelvic and or abdominal swelling, bloating and or feeling of fullness
• Ongoing unusual fatigue
• Unexplained changes in bowel habits
• If symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, consult your physician
All women are at risk, even if you have had your ovaries removed with a complete hysterectomy.
Early detection increases survival rate.
A pap Test does not detect ovarian cancer.
There are national resources like the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, and the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition but there is also an Oklahoma program: HOPE.
H.O.P.E. in Oklahoma was first organized in 2001 as an ovarian cancer nonprofit and has since expanded its educational and awareness efforts to all gynecologic cancers. Their ovarian cancer awareness efforts, however, have been most aggressive in the past year to educate women and their doctors about the disease’s vague symptoms. HOPE has set up literature display booths at many events in Oklahoma, including the Oklahoma City Home & Garden Show, People Connected by Cancer, and Cervical and Breast Cancer Awareness day at the state capitol and at the Oklahoma City Junior League Mistletoe Market. Approximately 3,500 women were reached by handing out symptom cards for ovarian cancer in 2009. They also plan to reach every OB/GYN, internist, and family physician in Oklahoma. HOPE plans to mail approximately one hundred thousand ovarian cancer symptom cards to doctors all over the state. By asking doctors to hand out these cards personally, it will give them and their patients an opportunity to learn and discuss the all-too-often overlooked indicators of ovarian cancer. For more information about HOPE in Oklahoma, contact Marilyn Dewey, President, at P.O. Box 94614, Oklahoma City, OK 73143, or email marsmidew@pldi.net.
The Original Fly Girls
Here is a nice article about the original "fly girls" -- female World War II pilots. Enjoy. http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=123773525
Monday, March 08, 2010
Help end the disparities and violence that undermine women’s basic human rights in all places
Take a second to think about the women in your life. Whether it is a friend, a sister, a daughter, a wife or a mother, the love and strength of every woman impacts our lives on a daily basis and collectively strengthens our world.
March 8 marks International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to celebrating and uplifting women around the globe. This day encourages every person and nation to help put an end to the disparities and violence that undermine women’s basic human rights in all places. World Neighbors and Work of Women (WOW!) are dedicated to supporting and fighting for this cause and ask you to be a part of our mission. Join WOW! today!
In 2008, World Neighbors helped West African women recognize their place in local governments, educating them on their sexual and reproductive rights and helping them advocate for an end to violence against women. Our work hasn’t and won’t stop there.
This year, we have a unique opportunity to do more to help stop violence in less fortunate parts of the world through the International Violence Against Women Act (IVAWA), a United States House Bill that could impact the lives of women across the world. According to Women Thrive Worldwide, one in three women are abused throughout the world, and 60% of women who are victims of sexual abuse, experience it more than once [i]. These are just some unsettling statistics that the IVAWA legislation would help reduce. IVAWA seeks to change laws that hinder the leadership role of women in their personal and political lives, by joining together foreign police forces and women who have been victims of violence or abuse, to help implement change.
However long violence exists and disparities between women and men are prevalent, we must never give up the fight. Whether you choose to sign the IVAWA petition, write a letter to your representative on the importance of IVAWA or simply educate yourself and others on the seriousness of ending violence against women, you too can help implement change.
Help spread the mission of World Neighbors and WOW! and make International Women’s Day 2010 a memorable day, not simply for the women who impact your lives daily, but for the millions of other women who strive to fulfill their own potential every day.
________________________________________
[i]http://www.womenthrive.org/index.php?option=com_issues&view=issue&id=5&Itemid=115
Source. Worled Neighbors - WOW: Work of Women
March 8 marks International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to celebrating and uplifting women around the globe. This day encourages every person and nation to help put an end to the disparities and violence that undermine women’s basic human rights in all places. World Neighbors and Work of Women (WOW!) are dedicated to supporting and fighting for this cause and ask you to be a part of our mission. Join WOW! today!
In 2008, World Neighbors helped West African women recognize their place in local governments, educating them on their sexual and reproductive rights and helping them advocate for an end to violence against women. Our work hasn’t and won’t stop there.
This year, we have a unique opportunity to do more to help stop violence in less fortunate parts of the world through the International Violence Against Women Act (IVAWA), a United States House Bill that could impact the lives of women across the world. According to Women Thrive Worldwide, one in three women are abused throughout the world, and 60% of women who are victims of sexual abuse, experience it more than once [i]. These are just some unsettling statistics that the IVAWA legislation would help reduce. IVAWA seeks to change laws that hinder the leadership role of women in their personal and political lives, by joining together foreign police forces and women who have been victims of violence or abuse, to help implement change.
However long violence exists and disparities between women and men are prevalent, we must never give up the fight. Whether you choose to sign the IVAWA petition, write a letter to your representative on the importance of IVAWA or simply educate yourself and others on the seriousness of ending violence against women, you too can help implement change.
Help spread the mission of World Neighbors and WOW! and make International Women’s Day 2010 a memorable day, not simply for the women who impact your lives daily, but for the millions of other women who strive to fulfill their own potential every day.
________________________________________
[i]http://www.womenthrive.org/index.php?option=com_issues&view=issue&id=5&Itemid=115
Source. Worled Neighbors - WOW: Work of Women
Sunday, March 07, 2010
SBA Proposes Women-Owned Small Business Rule To Expand Access to Federal Contracting Opportunities
SBA News Release
Release Date: March 2, 2010
Contact: Hayley Matz (202) 205-6948
Release Number: 10-05
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Small Business Administration today released a proposed rule aimed at expanding federal contracting opportunities for women-owned small businesses (WOSB). The proposed rule is available for public comment for 60 days.
The proposed rule is part of the Obama Administration's overall commitment to expanding opportunities for small businesses to compete for federal contracts, in particular those owned by women, minorities and veterans. This proposed rule identifies 83 industries in which WOSBs are under-represented or substantially under-represented in the federal contract marketplace. This rule is aimed at providing greater opportunities for WOSBs to compete for federal contracts, while achieving the existing statutory goal that 5 percent of federal contracting dollars go to women-owned small businesses.
"Women-owned small businesses are one of the fastest growing segments of our economy, yet they continue to be under-represented when it comes to federal contracting," said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. "Across the country, women are leading strong, innovative companies, and we know that securing federal contracts can be the opportunity that helps them take their businesses to the next level, expand their volume and create good-paying jobs. This proposed rule is a step forward in helping ensure greater access for women- owned small businesses in the federal marketplace."
The creation of a rule to increase federal contracting opportunities for WOSBs was authorized by Congress in 2000. Since that time, SBA took a number of steps to study and analyze the market, including looking at participation by women-owned small businesses across all industries. Various draft rules were made available for public comment in prior years, but the Obama Administration chose last year to draft a new, comprehensive rule, based on the analysis of the prior studies and on all the questions and comments previously received.
Some of the components of the proposed Women-Owned Small Business rule
include:
. To be eligible, a firm must be 51 percent owned and controlled by one or more women, and primarily managed by one or more women. The women must be U.S. citizens. The firm must be "small" in its primary industry in accordance with SBA's size standards for that industry. In order for a WOSB to be deemed "economically disadvantaged," its owners must demonstrate economic disadvantage in accordance with the requirements set forth in the proposed rule.
. Based upon the analysis in a study commissioned by the SBA from the Kauffman-RAND Foundation, the proposed rule identifies 83 industries (identified by "NAICS" codes) in which women-owned small businesses are
under-represented or substantially under-represented.
o The SBA has identified eligible industries based upon the combination of both the "share of contracting dollars" analysis, as well as the "share of number of contracts awarded" analysis used in the RAND study. This differs from an earlier proposed version of the rule which identified only four industries in which women-owned small businesses were under-represented. This earlier version proposed to identify eligible industries based solely on the "share of contracting dollars" analysis used in the RAND study.
. In accordance with the statute, the proposed rule authorizes a set-aside of federal contracts for WOSBs where the anticipated contract price does not exceed $5 million in the case of manufacturing contracts and $3 million in the case of other contracts. Contracts with values in excess of these limits are not subject to set-aside under this program.
. The proposed rule removes the requirement, set forth in a prior proposed version, that each federal agency certify that it had engaged in discrimination against women-owned small businesses in order for the program to apply to contracting by that agency.
. The proposed rule allows women-owned small businesses to self-certify as "WOSBs" or to be certified by third-party certifiers, including government entities and private certification groups.
o The proposed rule requires WOSBs which self-certify to submit a robust certification at the federal ORCA Web site and also to submit a core set of eligibility-related documents to an online "document repository" to be maintained by the SBA. Each agency's contracting officers will have full
access to this repository.
o The SBA intends to engage in a significant number of program examinations to confirm eligibility of individual WOSBs.
o In the event of a contract protest or program review, the SBA will be entitled to request substantial additional documentation from the WOSB to establish eligibility.
o SBA intends vigorously to pursue ineligible firms which seek to take advantage of this program and in so doing to deny its benefits to the intended legitimate WOSBs.
The public may submit comments to this proposed rule up until close of business on May 3, 2010, to www.regulations.gov, where they will be posted after 4 p.m. EST today, or by mailing them to Dean Koppel, Assistant Director, Office of Policy and Research, Office of Government Contracting, U.S. Small
Business Administration, 409 3rd St. SW, Washington, DC 20416. Please
reference RIN 3245-AG06 when submitting comments.
Release Date: March 2, 2010
Contact: Hayley Matz (202) 205-6948
Release Number: 10-05
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Small Business Administration today released a proposed rule aimed at expanding federal contracting opportunities for women-owned small businesses (WOSB). The proposed rule is available for public comment for 60 days.
The proposed rule is part of the Obama Administration's overall commitment to expanding opportunities for small businesses to compete for federal contracts, in particular those owned by women, minorities and veterans. This proposed rule identifies 83 industries in which WOSBs are under-represented or substantially under-represented in the federal contract marketplace. This rule is aimed at providing greater opportunities for WOSBs to compete for federal contracts, while achieving the existing statutory goal that 5 percent of federal contracting dollars go to women-owned small businesses.
"Women-owned small businesses are one of the fastest growing segments of our economy, yet they continue to be under-represented when it comes to federal contracting," said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. "Across the country, women are leading strong, innovative companies, and we know that securing federal contracts can be the opportunity that helps them take their businesses to the next level, expand their volume and create good-paying jobs. This proposed rule is a step forward in helping ensure greater access for women- owned small businesses in the federal marketplace."
The creation of a rule to increase federal contracting opportunities for WOSBs was authorized by Congress in 2000. Since that time, SBA took a number of steps to study and analyze the market, including looking at participation by women-owned small businesses across all industries. Various draft rules were made available for public comment in prior years, but the Obama Administration chose last year to draft a new, comprehensive rule, based on the analysis of the prior studies and on all the questions and comments previously received.
Some of the components of the proposed Women-Owned Small Business rule
include:
. To be eligible, a firm must be 51 percent owned and controlled by one or more women, and primarily managed by one or more women. The women must be U.S. citizens. The firm must be "small" in its primary industry in accordance with SBA's size standards for that industry. In order for a WOSB to be deemed "economically disadvantaged," its owners must demonstrate economic disadvantage in accordance with the requirements set forth in the proposed rule.
. Based upon the analysis in a study commissioned by the SBA from the Kauffman-RAND Foundation, the proposed rule identifies 83 industries (identified by "NAICS" codes) in which women-owned small businesses are
under-represented or substantially under-represented.
o The SBA has identified eligible industries based upon the combination of both the "share of contracting dollars" analysis, as well as the "share of number of contracts awarded" analysis used in the RAND study. This differs from an earlier proposed version of the rule which identified only four industries in which women-owned small businesses were under-represented. This earlier version proposed to identify eligible industries based solely on the "share of contracting dollars" analysis used in the RAND study.
. In accordance with the statute, the proposed rule authorizes a set-aside of federal contracts for WOSBs where the anticipated contract price does not exceed $5 million in the case of manufacturing contracts and $3 million in the case of other contracts. Contracts with values in excess of these limits are not subject to set-aside under this program.
. The proposed rule removes the requirement, set forth in a prior proposed version, that each federal agency certify that it had engaged in discrimination against women-owned small businesses in order for the program to apply to contracting by that agency.
. The proposed rule allows women-owned small businesses to self-certify as "WOSBs" or to be certified by third-party certifiers, including government entities and private certification groups.
o The proposed rule requires WOSBs which self-certify to submit a robust certification at the federal ORCA Web site and also to submit a core set of eligibility-related documents to an online "document repository" to be maintained by the SBA. Each agency's contracting officers will have full
access to this repository.
o The SBA intends to engage in a significant number of program examinations to confirm eligibility of individual WOSBs.
o In the event of a contract protest or program review, the SBA will be entitled to request substantial additional documentation from the WOSB to establish eligibility.
o SBA intends vigorously to pursue ineligible firms which seek to take advantage of this program and in so doing to deny its benefits to the intended legitimate WOSBs.
The public may submit comments to this proposed rule up until close of business on May 3, 2010, to www.regulations.gov, where they will be posted after 4 p.m. EST today, or by mailing them to Dean Koppel, Assistant Director, Office of Policy and Research, Office of Government Contracting, U.S. Small
Business Administration, 409 3rd St. SW, Washington, DC 20416. Please
reference RIN 3245-AG06 when submitting comments.
Saturday, March 06, 2010
Pine-Sol Launches "Make a Powerful Difference" Contest for Women
Deadline: March 22, 2010
The makers of Pine-Sol cleaners, a product line of Clorox Company, have launched the 2010 Make a Powerful Difference Contest, which will award grants online to women who are helping improve their communities and are making extraordinary change.
One grand-prize winner will receive $10,000 to make a difference for their community or cause, while an additional nine finalists will each receive $1,000 to help support their initiatives. Since 2007, when the Pine-Sol Powerful Difference program first started, the company has awarded dozens of grants to over 80 "difference makers."
To enter this year's contest, submissions can be made online at the program's Web site. All entries must include a brief essay on how the entrant is making a powerful difference in her community. A panel of judges will then select the ten Powerful Difference Maker finalists based on originality, creativity, and relevance to theme. The general public will then vote for the grand-prize winner. Visit the program Web site for official contest rules. http://www.powerfuldifference.com
The makers of Pine-Sol cleaners, a product line of Clorox Company, have launched the 2010 Make a Powerful Difference Contest, which will award grants online to women who are helping improve their communities and are making extraordinary change.
One grand-prize winner will receive $10,000 to make a difference for their community or cause, while an additional nine finalists will each receive $1,000 to help support their initiatives. Since 2007, when the Pine-Sol Powerful Difference program first started, the company has awarded dozens of grants to over 80 "difference makers."
To enter this year's contest, submissions can be made online at the program's Web site. All entries must include a brief essay on how the entrant is making a powerful difference in her community. A panel of judges will then select the ten Powerful Difference Maker finalists based on originality, creativity, and relevance to theme. The general public will then vote for the grand-prize winner. Visit the program Web site for official contest rules. http://www.powerfuldifference.com
Today in Idabel / Terry Border Will Make You Laugh
Took time today to read back through Oklahoma women's blogs. Lots of good stuff being said but really couldn't resist mentioning this because it made me smile! Check it out:
Today in Idabel: We Be A Big Fan of Terry Border and his Bent Object(s)
Today in Idabel: We Be A Big Fan of Terry Border and his Bent Object(s)
Friday, March 05, 2010
Follow Tulsa's new Women's National Basketball Association team: the SHOCK
Are you following Tulsa's new WNBA franchise, the Tulsa SHOCK yet?Sign up now to follow then and cheer these women on!!!
Twitter = http://twitter.com/TulsaShock
YouTube = http://www.youtube.com/wnbatulsa
Their Facebook link isn't working today but try it anyway: http://www.facebook.com/wnbatulsa
You can also sign up for newsletters, etc at http://www.wnba.com/shock/contact.html
KGOU to Air OK Gubernatorial Candidates Forum Monday, March 8 at 11 am
KGOU will air the Oklahoma gubernatorial candidates forum from last Tuesday's Oklahoma Women's Coalition event this coming Monday, March 8th, at 11 a.m. They will also post the audio online at that time (at http://www.kgou.org/). The OWC is grateful to KGOU for this service! KGOU can be found on your radio dial at 106.3 (Norman), 105.7 (Oklahoma City/Spencer), 103.1 (Seminole) and 97.9 (Ada).
Explore the Women of the Oklahoma Legislature Oral History Project website
March being Women’s History Month, the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program (OOHRP) at the Oklahoma State University Library would like to invite you to explore the Women of the Oklahoma Legislature Oral History Project website (www.library.okstate.edu/oralhistory/wotol/).
The Women of the Oklahoma Legislature Oral History Project is a collection of firsthand accounts from women who have served or are currently serving in the Oklahoma Legislature. Throughout our state’s history only 77 women have held such positions. From the earliest days of the Oklahoma Legislature through today, women have remained a definite minority.
The site includes:
• Full transcripts of over 40 interviews with women legislators
• Downloadable PDF of the “Women of the Oklahoma Legislature” poster
• Downloadable lesson plans for grades 4 through 6 and grades 7 through 9. www.library.okstate.edu/oralhistory/wotol/lessons.htm
The lesson plans, designed for grades 4-6 and 7-9, address the Oklahoma Priority Academic Student Skills (PASS) standards in a variety of subjects including information literacy, language arts, mathematics, reading/literature, social studies, visual arts and writing. The lesson plans are provided courtesy of the OOHRP at the Oklahoma State University Library with generous support from the Women's Archives at OSU, the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women, and the Puterbaugh Foundation Professorship of Library Service. The curricula were created by Dr. Linda Henshall Wilson of Northeastern State University and Latasha Wilson of the OOHRP.
If interested in obtaining a full size poster or for more information about the Women of the Oklahoma Legislature Oral History Project, please contact Tanya Finchum at 405-744-7942 or tanya.finchum@okstate.edu.
The Women of the Oklahoma Legislature Oral History Project is a collection of firsthand accounts from women who have served or are currently serving in the Oklahoma Legislature. Throughout our state’s history only 77 women have held such positions. From the earliest days of the Oklahoma Legislature through today, women have remained a definite minority.
The site includes:
• Full transcripts of over 40 interviews with women legislators
• Downloadable PDF of the “Women of the Oklahoma Legislature” poster
• Downloadable lesson plans for grades 4 through 6 and grades 7 through 9. www.library.okstate.edu/oralhistory/wotol/lessons.htm
The lesson plans, designed for grades 4-6 and 7-9, address the Oklahoma Priority Academic Student Skills (PASS) standards in a variety of subjects including information literacy, language arts, mathematics, reading/literature, social studies, visual arts and writing. The lesson plans are provided courtesy of the OOHRP at the Oklahoma State University Library with generous support from the Women's Archives at OSU, the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women, and the Puterbaugh Foundation Professorship of Library Service. The curricula were created by Dr. Linda Henshall Wilson of Northeastern State University and Latasha Wilson of the OOHRP.
If interested in obtaining a full size poster or for more information about the Women of the Oklahoma Legislature Oral History Project, please contact Tanya Finchum at 405-744-7942 or tanya.finchum@okstate.edu.
Women's Clubs: Get Your Mayor to Declare March "Women's History Month"
Stillwater Mayor Nathan Bates recently proclaimed March as Women's History Month and March 21 as Outstanding Women of the Year Day. You can watch Carey Warner with the Cimarron Chapter of Oklahoma Business Women, Inc. receive the proclamation at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fqStbCQcqk
Here is the wording of the proclamation:
PROCLAMATION by the Mayor and the City Council of Stillwater, Oklahoma recognizing the month of March as “Women’s History Month” and naming March 21, 2010 as “Outstanding Women of the Year” day.
WHEREAS, Women of every race, class, and ethnic background have made historic contributions to the growth and strength of our community in countless recorded and unrecorded ways.
WHEREAS, Women have played and continue to play a critical economic, cultural, and social role in every sphere of the life of our community by constituting a significant portion of the labor force working inside and outside the home.
WHEREAS, Women have played a unique role throughout history by providing the majority of the volunteer labor force. Women were particularly important in the establishment of early charitable, philanthropic, and cultural institutions.
WHEREAS, Women of every race, class, and ethnic background have served as early leaders in the forefront of every major progressive social change movement in our city, state and nation.
WHEREAS, Women have been leaders, not only in securing their own rights of suffrage and equal opportunity, but also in the abolitionist movement, the emancipation movement, the industrial labor movement, the civil rights movement, and other movements, especially the peace movement, which creates a more fair and just society for all; and
WHEREAS, the Stillwater City Council and the Mayor of Stillwater join with the Cimarron Business Women in recognizing the roles and contributions of women in the community of Stillwater.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Stillwater City Council and the Mayor of Stillwater hereby officially recognize March as “Women’s History Month” and March 21, 2010 as “Outstanding Women of the Year” day.
Well done, ladies. Other Oklahoma women's clubs -- how about using the above as a guide and asking YOUR city to do a similar proclamation?!
Here is the wording of the proclamation:
PROCLAMATION by the Mayor and the City Council of Stillwater, Oklahoma recognizing the month of March as “Women’s History Month” and naming March 21, 2010 as “Outstanding Women of the Year” day.
WHEREAS, Women of every race, class, and ethnic background have made historic contributions to the growth and strength of our community in countless recorded and unrecorded ways.
WHEREAS, Women have played and continue to play a critical economic, cultural, and social role in every sphere of the life of our community by constituting a significant portion of the labor force working inside and outside the home.
WHEREAS, Women have played a unique role throughout history by providing the majority of the volunteer labor force. Women were particularly important in the establishment of early charitable, philanthropic, and cultural institutions.
WHEREAS, Women of every race, class, and ethnic background have served as early leaders in the forefront of every major progressive social change movement in our city, state and nation.
WHEREAS, Women have been leaders, not only in securing their own rights of suffrage and equal opportunity, but also in the abolitionist movement, the emancipation movement, the industrial labor movement, the civil rights movement, and other movements, especially the peace movement, which creates a more fair and just society for all; and
WHEREAS, the Stillwater City Council and the Mayor of Stillwater join with the Cimarron Business Women in recognizing the roles and contributions of women in the community of Stillwater.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Stillwater City Council and the Mayor of Stillwater hereby officially recognize March as “Women’s History Month” and March 21, 2010 as “Outstanding Women of the Year” day.
Well done, ladies. Other Oklahoma women's clubs -- how about using the above as a guide and asking YOUR city to do a similar proclamation?!
Okie Bloggers: Join Oklahoma Bloggers Club
Hey, all you Oklahoma bloggers. How about joining the Oklahoma Bloggers Club?!
Just go to http://okbloggersclub.ning.com/profiles/blog/list and sign up!
Just go to http://okbloggersclub.ning.com/profiles/blog/list and sign up!
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Time to Celebrate Women's History Month!!
March 2010 marks the 30th anniversary of the national recognition of Women's History Week, which later became Women's History Month. This year is also the 30th anniversary of the National Women's History Project (NWHP).
NWHP is holding an Online Auction that started March 1. View All Auction Items and help them raise much needed funds; you can bid on handmade quilts, vacation getaways, gourmet food, and autographed books. New items will be added throughout the month of March.
Details of their celebratory Women's History Month Event in Washington, D.C. will be announced soon. In the meantime, be sure to check out the Presidential Proclamation.
Visit our webstore Theme and Celebration Items to start your own Women's History Month celebration. We feature: 1) Writing Women Back into History purple and cream banner; 2) beautiful bookmarks with photos of Abigail Adams, Harriet Tubman, Sarah Winnemucca, Jane Addams, Patsy Mink, and Sonia Sotomayor; 3) a special 2- DVD program kit with a Facilitator's Guide; and 4) a new Writing Women Back into History Guide with ideas and activities for your celebration. Let's recognize the many accomplishments of women by "writing them back into history."
Here are some March highlights in US Women's History:
• March 1, 1978 - Women's History Week is first observed in Sonoma County , California
• March 1, 1987 - A Congressional resolution designating March as Women's History Month is passed
• March 4, 1917 - Jeannette Rankin (R-MT) took her seat as the first female member of Congress
• March 8 - International Women's Day; its origins trace back to protests in US and Europe to honor and fight for the political rights for working women
• March 11, 1993 - Janet Reno is confirmed as the first woman U.S. Attorney General
• March 12, 1912 - Juliette Gordon Low assembled 18 girls together in Savannah , Georgia for the first-ever Girl Scout meeting
• March 13, 1986 - Susan Butcher won the first of 3 straight and 4 total Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Races in Alaska
• March 17, 1910 - Camp Fire Girls is established as the first American interracial, non-sectarian organization for girls
• March 20, 1852 - Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel, "Uncle Tom's Cabin," is published and becomes the best-selling book of the 19 th century
• March 21, 1986 - Debi Thomas becomes first African American woman to win the World Figure Skating Championship
• March 23, 1917 - Virginia Woolf establishes the Hogarth Press with her husband, Leonard Woolf
• March 31, 1888 - The National Council of Women of the U.S. is organized by Susan B. Anthony, Clara Barton, Julia Ward Howe, and Sojourner Truth, among others; it is the oldest non-sectarian women's organization in U.S.
• March 31, 1776 - Abigail Adams writes to her husband John who is helping to frame the Declaration of Independence: "Remember the ladies..."
March Birthdays
• March 3, 1962 - Jackie Joyner-Kersee, considered the world's greatest female athlete; holds the record in the long jump (1988) and the heptathlon (1986); winner of 3 gold, 1 silver, and 2 bronze medals in 4 Olympic games
• March 5, 1931 - Geraldyn (Jerrie) Cobb, record-setting aviator; first woman to pass qualifying exams for astronaut training, in 1959, but not allowed to train because of her gender
• March 7, 1938 - Janet Guthrie, pioneering woman auto racer; first woman to compete in Indianapolis 500 (1977) and Daytona 500 (1977)
• March 9, 1928 (1987) - Graciela Olivarez, Chicana activist; first woman and Latina law graduate from Notre Dame Law School; one of first two women on the board of Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund (MALDEF)
• March 15, 1933 - Ruth Bader Ginsburg, second female U.S. Supreme Court justice (1993)
• March 18, 1964 - Bonnie Blair, speed skater; one of the most successful Winter Olympian in U.S. history and 5 time gold medalist
• March 23, 1857 (1915) - Fannie Farmer, authored famous cookbook, "The Boston Cooking-School Cookbook", and included specific ingredient measurements for the first time which would become standardized cooking measurements
• March 23, 1924 (1980) - Bette Nesmith Graham, invented Liquid Paper correction fluid which became an office staple; created 2 foundations to support women's business and art
• March 24, 1826 (1898) - Matilda Joslyn Gage, suffragist, women's rights and Native American rights activist, historian, founding member of the National Woman Suffrage Association
• March 24, 1912 - Dorothy Height, served over 40 years as President of the National Council of Negro Women
• March 25, 1934 - Gloria Steinem, women's rights activist and journalist; founding editor of Ms. Magazine; helped found National Women's Political Caucus, the Women's Action Alliance, and the Coalition of Labor Union Women
• March 26, 1930 - Sandra Day O'Connor, first woman U.S. Supreme Court Justice (1981)
• March 27, 1924 (1990) - Sarah Vaughan, world renown jazz singer and pianist known as the "Divine One"
• March 31, 1889 (1975) - Muriel Wright, Choctaw Indian, teacher, historian, author, and editor
Feel free to use this information in any of your newsletters or forward it to colleagues or other interested parties. A year-round women's history calendar is available on our website www.nwhp.org in the News and Events category.For more, CLICK HERE.
NWHP is holding an Online Auction that started March 1. View All Auction Items and help them raise much needed funds; you can bid on handmade quilts, vacation getaways, gourmet food, and autographed books. New items will be added throughout the month of March.
Details of their celebratory Women's History Month Event in Washington, D.C. will be announced soon. In the meantime, be sure to check out the Presidential Proclamation.
Visit our webstore Theme and Celebration Items to start your own Women's History Month celebration. We feature: 1) Writing Women Back into History purple and cream banner; 2) beautiful bookmarks with photos of Abigail Adams, Harriet Tubman, Sarah Winnemucca, Jane Addams, Patsy Mink, and Sonia Sotomayor; 3) a special 2- DVD program kit with a Facilitator's Guide; and 4) a new Writing Women Back into History Guide with ideas and activities for your celebration. Let's recognize the many accomplishments of women by "writing them back into history."
Here are some March highlights in US Women's History:
• March 1, 1978 - Women's History Week is first observed in Sonoma County , California
• March 1, 1987 - A Congressional resolution designating March as Women's History Month is passed
• March 4, 1917 - Jeannette Rankin (R-MT) took her seat as the first female member of Congress
• March 8 - International Women's Day; its origins trace back to protests in US and Europe to honor and fight for the political rights for working women
• March 11, 1993 - Janet Reno is confirmed as the first woman U.S. Attorney General
• March 12, 1912 - Juliette Gordon Low assembled 18 girls together in Savannah , Georgia for the first-ever Girl Scout meeting
• March 13, 1986 - Susan Butcher won the first of 3 straight and 4 total Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Races in Alaska
• March 17, 1910 - Camp Fire Girls is established as the first American interracial, non-sectarian organization for girls
• March 20, 1852 - Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel, "Uncle Tom's Cabin," is published and becomes the best-selling book of the 19 th century
• March 21, 1986 - Debi Thomas becomes first African American woman to win the World Figure Skating Championship
• March 23, 1917 - Virginia Woolf establishes the Hogarth Press with her husband, Leonard Woolf
• March 31, 1888 - The National Council of Women of the U.S. is organized by Susan B. Anthony, Clara Barton, Julia Ward Howe, and Sojourner Truth, among others; it is the oldest non-sectarian women's organization in U.S.
• March 31, 1776 - Abigail Adams writes to her husband John who is helping to frame the Declaration of Independence: "Remember the ladies..."
March Birthdays
• March 3, 1962 - Jackie Joyner-Kersee, considered the world's greatest female athlete; holds the record in the long jump (1988) and the heptathlon (1986); winner of 3 gold, 1 silver, and 2 bronze medals in 4 Olympic games
• March 5, 1931 - Geraldyn (Jerrie) Cobb, record-setting aviator; first woman to pass qualifying exams for astronaut training, in 1959, but not allowed to train because of her gender
• March 7, 1938 - Janet Guthrie, pioneering woman auto racer; first woman to compete in Indianapolis 500 (1977) and Daytona 500 (1977)
• March 9, 1928 (1987) - Graciela Olivarez, Chicana activist; first woman and Latina law graduate from Notre Dame Law School; one of first two women on the board of Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund (MALDEF)
• March 15, 1933 - Ruth Bader Ginsburg, second female U.S. Supreme Court justice (1993)
• March 18, 1964 - Bonnie Blair, speed skater; one of the most successful Winter Olympian in U.S. history and 5 time gold medalist
• March 23, 1857 (1915) - Fannie Farmer, authored famous cookbook, "The Boston Cooking-School Cookbook", and included specific ingredient measurements for the first time which would become standardized cooking measurements
• March 23, 1924 (1980) - Bette Nesmith Graham, invented Liquid Paper correction fluid which became an office staple; created 2 foundations to support women's business and art
• March 24, 1826 (1898) - Matilda Joslyn Gage, suffragist, women's rights and Native American rights activist, historian, founding member of the National Woman Suffrage Association
• March 24, 1912 - Dorothy Height, served over 40 years as President of the National Council of Negro Women
• March 25, 1934 - Gloria Steinem, women's rights activist and journalist; founding editor of Ms. Magazine; helped found National Women's Political Caucus, the Women's Action Alliance, and the Coalition of Labor Union Women
• March 26, 1930 - Sandra Day O'Connor, first woman U.S. Supreme Court Justice (1981)
• March 27, 1924 (1990) - Sarah Vaughan, world renown jazz singer and pianist known as the "Divine One"
• March 31, 1889 (1975) - Muriel Wright, Choctaw Indian, teacher, historian, author, and editor
Feel free to use this information in any of your newsletters or forward it to colleagues or other interested parties. A year-round women's history calendar is available on our website www.nwhp.org in the News and Events category.For more, CLICK HERE.
The Links, Incorporated Join INTEGRIS Health and the Israel Idonije Foundation Nigerian Mission Team
The Oklahoma City Chapter of the Links, Inc. will join forces with INTEGRIS Health and The Israel Idonije Foundation to build on its commitment to support and refurbish schools in Africa to make a direct difference in the lives of African families. Chicago Bears defensive tackle, Israel Idonije and members of his Foundation, will be in Oklahoma City on March 3 and 4 to officially meet and welcome the Links partnership.
The Links, Incorporated is an international, not-for-profit corporation, established in 1946. The membership consists of 12,000 professional women of color in 270 chapters located in 42 states, the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. It is one of the nation’s oldest and largest volunteer service organizations of extraordinary women who are committed to enriching, sustaining and ensuring the culture and economic survival of African Americans and other persons of African ancestry. The members of The Links, Incorporated are influential decision makers and opinion leaders. Links members contribute more than 500,000 documented hours of community service annually. The outstanding programming of the Links, has four facets which include National Trends and Services, The Arts, Services to Youth, and International Trends and Services. Through their partnership with INTEGRIS Health and the Idonije Foundation, they will assist with support to families and youth in Nigeria.
On a mission trip scheduled for March 19-29, 2010 INTEGRIS Health physicians and nurses, will expand on its 2009 efforts to provide medical screening and treatment to underserved citizens in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria. INTEGRIS Health has more than quadrupled the amount of medication and supplies to be used in this 2010 mission.
The Israel Idonije Foundation (IIF) is entering its third year of service in Nigeria. Through IIF’s C.A.R.E. Africa program (Caring, Advancing, Restoring, Educating Africa) more than 1200 pairs of shoes will be donated to families and youth. C.A.R.E. will donate sports equipment and uniforms, soccer balls, and conduct sports and health education camps during this year’s mission.
In addition to the Israel Idonije Foundation, NTEGRIS Health, and The Links, Incorporated, other mission trip partners include, TCYFL (The Chicagoland Youth Football League), We Play to Win Foundation, GoalPower and Share Your Soles.
Source. Zora Brown-Rowland, INTEGRIS Health, (405) 951-8252
The Links, Incorporated is an international, not-for-profit corporation, established in 1946. The membership consists of 12,000 professional women of color in 270 chapters located in 42 states, the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. It is one of the nation’s oldest and largest volunteer service organizations of extraordinary women who are committed to enriching, sustaining and ensuring the culture and economic survival of African Americans and other persons of African ancestry. The members of The Links, Incorporated are influential decision makers and opinion leaders. Links members contribute more than 500,000 documented hours of community service annually. The outstanding programming of the Links, has four facets which include National Trends and Services, The Arts, Services to Youth, and International Trends and Services. Through their partnership with INTEGRIS Health and the Idonije Foundation, they will assist with support to families and youth in Nigeria.
On a mission trip scheduled for March 19-29, 2010 INTEGRIS Health physicians and nurses, will expand on its 2009 efforts to provide medical screening and treatment to underserved citizens in Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria. INTEGRIS Health has more than quadrupled the amount of medication and supplies to be used in this 2010 mission.
The Israel Idonije Foundation (IIF) is entering its third year of service in Nigeria. Through IIF’s C.A.R.E. Africa program (Caring, Advancing, Restoring, Educating Africa) more than 1200 pairs of shoes will be donated to families and youth. C.A.R.E. will donate sports equipment and uniforms, soccer balls, and conduct sports and health education camps during this year’s mission.
In addition to the Israel Idonije Foundation, NTEGRIS Health, and The Links, Incorporated, other mission trip partners include, TCYFL (The Chicagoland Youth Football League), We Play to Win Foundation, GoalPower and Share Your Soles.
Source. Zora Brown-Rowland, INTEGRIS Health, (405) 951-8252
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
March 8 is International Women's Day
The first National Women's Day was celebrated in the United States on February 28, 1909. In 1910, 100 years ago, the Socialist International honored women's rights and women's suffrage by establishing a Women's Day -- but without a date. The next year, Women's Day was celebrated in several European countries with rallies.
Source. About.com: Women's History
Source. About.com: Women's History
Cares & Concerns: Willa Mankiller Diagnosed with Panreatic Caner
Mankiller (born November 18, 1945 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma) was the first female Chief of the Cherokee Nation. She served as the Principal Chief for ten years from 1985 to 1995. Her autobiography is Mankiller: A Chief and her People.
Event, March 10, Norman: You Shouldn't Have to Choose (on Work-Family Balance)
This event is sponsored by The University of Oklahoma's Women’s Outreach Center, Women’s and Gender Studies Program, and Career Services. This is going to be an interesting event, so please let your members, other friends, classmates, family, and roommates know about the event, see Facebook event http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=336720426550&ref=nf
Feel free to email, post, and distribute the publicity material (see attachments) and don’t hesitate to contact me if you would like printed posters or have any questions.
When: March 10th at 3pm
Where: President’s Room, Oklahoma Memorial Union, OU, Norman
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Oklahoma Women's Coalition Day at the Capitol a Great Success
T
The Oklahoma Women's Coalition's second annual Advocacy Day at the Capitol was great! Oklahoma Secretary of State Susan Savage and State Representative Lee Denney (see image left) got us off to a wonderful start. Then YWCA-OKC CEO Jan Peery explained that the OWC has elected to support two legislative matters so far this year. Click on images on left to enlarge.The issues are passage of SB2998 and maintaining the current funding level for Oklahoma's domestic violence and sexual assault programs. Then we fanned out all over the State Capitol Building. We were back at the Oklahoma History Center by noon for a delicious lunch and a chance to hear from the four major candidates for Governor of Oklahoma this year: US Congresswoman Mary Fallin, Lieutenant Governor Jari Askins, Attorney General Drew Edmondson, and Senator Randy Brogdon.
We were adjourned by 1 sharp but people stayed and visited as much useful networking took place! We celebrated 28 organizational members including our two newest organizations: the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy and the Tulsa's Domestic Violence Intervention Services, Inc. Thanks to all who came and everyone who made this event a success. Special kudos to our Communications Chair, Quin Tran who had us all over the TV stations in both Tulsa and Oklahoma City leading up to today!
Event Sunday, March 7, 3pm, Norman: Break the Chains of Modern Slavery
A program on human trafficking in Oklahoma featuring Mark Elam of Oklahomans Against Trafficking of Humans (o.a.t.h.), Linda Caswell of All Things New, and Joy Pendley of the University of Oklahoma will be offered Sunday, march 7 from 3 to 4:30pm at First Presbyterian Church, 555 S. University Blvd. in Norman, OK.
CAUTION: MATURE AUDIENCE/ CHILDCARE PROVIDED
CAUTION: MATURE AUDIENCE/ CHILDCARE PROVIDED
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)