Oklahoma Women's Network Blog (continued)

2011-11-23T20:26:00.001-08:00

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First Lady Launches President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition (cont)

2010-06-23T13:48:00.000-07:00

First Lady Launches President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition: Mrs. Obama joins Washington, DC-area kids to unveil expanded mission of Council, introduce 2010 Council Co-Chairs and Members

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, First Lady Michelle Obama joined kids from the Washington, DC area to launch the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition and introduce the 2010 Council co-chairs and members. In conjunction with the First Lady’s Let’s Move! initiative, this year President Obama has broadened the scope of the Council, formerly known as the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, to include a focus on healthy eating as well as active lifestyles. Yesterday, the President signed an Executive Order outlining the Council’s new emphasis on both good nutrition and physical fitness.

The President has named Drew Brees, quarterback for the New Orleans Saints, and Dominique Dawes, three-time Olympian and former U.S. national champion in women’s gymnastics, 2010 Council Co-Chairs. Dawes delivered remarks at the event and Brees recorded a video message that was shown there. Joining Dawes at the event were 2010 Council Members Dan Barber, Tedy Bruschi, Allyson Felix, Michelle Kwan, Curtis Pride, Donna Richardson Joyner, Dr. Ian Smith, Carl Edwards, Cornell McClellan and Dr. Stephen McDonough. Council Executive Director, Shellie Pfohl, was also in attendance. Following the announcement, the First Lady, Pfohl and the Council Members joined the kids in participating in a series of activity stations.

“This year we’re expanding the work of the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition to include not just a focus on active lifestyles, but on healthy eating, too,” Mrs. Obama said. “The Council will play an important role in our effort to help combat childhood obesity in this country and I am grateful to the athletes, chefs, doctors and nutrition experts who are volunteering their time on the Council to help make a difference.”

The President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition is a committee of volunteer citizens who advise the President through the Secretary of Health and Human Services about opportunities to develop accessible, affordable and sustainable physical activity, fitness, sports and nutrition programs for all Americans regardless of age, background or ability. The Council’s mission is to engage, educate and empower all Americans to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and good nutrition. For more information about the Council and its members, visit www.fitness.gov.

In addition to its presidential advisory role, the Council promotes and maintains the President’s Challenge Physical Activity and Fitness Awards program (President’s Challenge) which encourages all Americans to include physical activity – 30 minutes per day for adults and 60 minutes per day for youth – in their daily lives. For more information about the President’s Challenge programs, visit www.presidentschallenge.org.

President Obama announced his intent to appoint the following individuals to the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition:

Drew Brees, Appointee for Co-Chair, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Drew Brees is the 2009 Super Bowl MVP-winning quarterback for the New Orleans Saints. During Mr. Brees’s nine year career, he has been elected to four Pro Bowls, named the 2004 Comeback player of the Year, a member of the 2006 All-Pro Team, the 2006 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, the 2008 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, and Super Bowl XLIV Champion and MVP. Mr. Brees and his wife, Brittany, established the Brees Dream Foundation in 2003 and have raised or committed more than $5.5 million to advance cancer research, care for cancer patients, and rebuild schools, parks, playgrounds, and athletic fields in New Orleans, San Diego, and the Purdue/West Lafayette, Indiana communities. He attended Purdue University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial management from the Krannert School of Management while lettering in football from 1997-2000.

Dominique Dawes, Appointee for Co-Chair, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Dominique Dawes is an Olympic gymnast who competed in three Olympic Games and has a permanent place in the U.S. Olympic Committee Hall of Fame. She was a member of the gold-medal-winning team at the 1996 Atlanta Games, where she also won a bronze medal in the floor exercise, becoming the first female African-American gymnast to win an individual medal. Now retired after dedicating 18 years to the sport, Ms. Dawes commits her time to motivational speaking, hosting gymnastics clinics, and serving as a spokesperson for several organizations that support the physical and emotional health of youth and women. She is an accomplished motivational speaker, speaking to audiences on topics focusing on leadership, teamwork, physical and emotional health, fitness and overcoming obstacles.

Dan Barber, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Dan Barber is a New York-based chef and co-owner of Blue Hill restaurant where he features locally and sustainably grown foods. An advocate for local foods and good nutrition, Mr. Barber has addressed these issues through op-eds in the New York Times and articles in Gourmet, Saveur, and Food and Wine Magazine. His writing has appeared in the annual “Best Food Writing” anthology for the past five years. He has also teamed on projects with Harvard Medical School’s Center for Health and the Global Environment, and New York City’s Greenmarkets. In 2009, Time Magazine recognized him as one of the world’s most influential people of the year and he was named the top chef in America by the James Beard Foundation.

Tedy Bruschi, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Tedy Bruschi is a former football player who spent 13 years playing for the NFL’s New England Patriots, claiming three Super Bowl rings. Mr. Bruschi is a spokesman for the American Heart Association and serves on the Board of Trustees of Partners Continuing Care. He is a founder of Tedy’s Team, a foundation that aims to raise funds for stroke research, inspired by Mr. Bruschi’s own experience. A stroke after the 2005 season left Mr. Bruschi with partial paralysis and uncovered a congenital heart defect. After making a full recovery, he returned to form on the field, leading his team in tackles for two seasons after his recovery. Mr. Bruschi played in the Pro Bowl in 2005 and twice won the Ed Block Courage Award, presented to those who are voted by their teammates to be role models of inspiration, sportsmanship, and courage. In 2006, he awarded with the Senator Paul E. Tsongas Award for Exemplary Public Service.

Carl Edwards, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Carl Edwards is a championship NASCAR driver and currently in the top ten in the overall standings for both the Sprint Cup Series and Nationwide Series. In the first 10 years of his career, Mr. Edwards has accumulated two NASCAR sanctioned track championships, three Rookie-of-the-Year honors, and more than 75 feature wins while racing on both dirt and pavement tracks across the country. In 2008, he won the Tag Heuer Top Racecar Driver of the Year Award, the NASCAR.COM Driver of the Year, and the National Motorsports Press Association voted him as the Richard Petty Driver of the Year. He also supports charities including the Speedway Children’s Charities, Dream Factory, and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

Allyson Felix, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Allyson Felix is an accomplished Olympic gold medal track and field sprint athlete who helped the U.S. women’s 4x400 meter relay team secure victory in the Beijing 2008 games. In the 200 meters, she is also a two-time Olympic silver medalist, a three-time World Outdoor champion, and a five-time USA Outdoor champion. When Ms. Felix won the 2009 World Outdoor Championships, she made history as the first woman to ever win three world 200-meter titles. She additionally has won two gold medals with the World Outdoor 4x400 meter relay team and another in the World Outdoor 4x100 meter relay. Ms. Felix’s speed helped her become the World Junior record holder in 2005 when she clocked 22.18 in the 200 meters as an 18-year old.

Grant Hill, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Grant Hill is a professional basketball player with the NBA’s Phoenix Suns. He has made seven appearances in the NBA All-Star Game and won a gold medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta as a member of the U.S. men’s basketball team. On the court, he is lauded as one of the best all-around players in the game, recognized for his skill and sportsmanship. He has won the NBA Sportsmanship Award three times, the only person to have received the honor more than once. He and his wife, Tamia, are dedicated to multiple service organizations, including the Tamia & Grant Hill Foundation, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the Grant and Tamia Hill Athletic Scholarship Endowment Fund.

Billie Jean King, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Billie Jean King won 39 Grand Slam singles, doubles and mixed doubles tennis titles, including a record 20 titles at Wimbledon. She left a mark on the sport and the women’s movement during the 1973 “Battle of the Sexes” match, in which she defeated Bobby Riggs, a former number one player in the world. Ms. King founded the Women’s Tennis Association, the Women’s Sports Foundation, and co-founded World TeamTennis, a co-ed professional tennis league. She was named a “Global Mentor for Gender Equality” by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2008, received the NCAA President’s Gerald R. Ford Award in 2009 for her contributions to improving higher education and intercollegiate athletics, and earlier this year was honored with the Beacon of Change Award from Major League Baseball. In August 2009, Ms. King was awarded with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor.

Michelle Kwan, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Michelle Kwan is the most decorated figure skater in U.S. history. She has won five world championships, nine U.S. national championships and silver and bronze Olympic medals. In 2001 she received the Sullivan Award, given to the top amateur athlete in America and in 2003 she was awarded the U.S. Olympic Committee Sports Woman of the Year. Ms. Kwan currently serves as a public diplomacy envoy, an unpaid position with the U.S. State Department, charged with engaging young people in dialogue on social and educational issues. She is also pursuing a master’s in international affairs at Tufts University’s Fletcher School, having graduated from the University of Denver with a degree in international studies in 2008.

Dr. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Dr. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey is the President and CEO of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, a philanthropic organization devoted to improving health and health care. She is the first woman and the first African American to lead the $8 billion Foundation. Among its major efforts to improve the nation’s health, the Foundation has committed $500 million toward rolling back the epidemic of childhood obesity. Before joining the foundation, Dr. Lavizzo-Mourey was a leader in academic medicine, government service, and her medical specialty of geriatrics. During her tenure at the University of Pennsylvania, she served as a professor and the director of the University’s Institute on Aging. She also served as the deputy administrator of what is now the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality. Dr. Lavizzo-Mourey earned her medical degree from Harvard Medical School and her M.B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. In 2009, Forbes named Dr. Lavizzo-Mourey one of the world’s 100 Most Powerful Women.

Cornell McClellan, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Cornell McClellan, the owner of Naturally Fit, Inc., is the fitness consultant and personal trainer for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. A black belt in Karate, Mr. McClellan has managed a youth fitness program and coached many young athletes in his more than 30-year health and wellness career. He has also helped train several weight lifting enthusiasts who earned the titles of Mr. Illinois, Mr. U.S.A., Mr. America and Mr. Universe. Additionally committed to good nutrition, Mr. McClellan educates clients about food and has served on the international board for Earth Save, an organization that promotes healthy eating choices and helps people transition toward healthy plant-based diets. He contributes weekly to the Chicago Sun-Times, writing on issues of health and physical fitness.

Dr. Stephen McDonough, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Dr. Stephen McDonough has worked for 30 years as a pediatrician in North Dakota. Dr. McDonough spent more than fifteen years in senior positions at the North Dakota Department of Health. During his time at the Department of Health, Dr. McDonough led efforts to prevent smoking and combat childhood obesity in North Dakota. A longtime faculty member at the University of North Dakota Medical School, he has also published articles in the New England Journal of Medicine and Pediatrics, authored a book on the history of public health in North Dakota, and worked for more than a decade with Boy Scouts of America. Dr. McDonough graduated from the University of Minnesota Medical School and completed his pediatric residency at the University of Colorado in Denver.

Chris Paul, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Chris Paul is a professional basketball player and team captain for the National Basketball Association’s New Orleans Hornets. In 2006, Mr. Paul was named NBA Rookie of the Year in 2006 and won an Olympic Gold Medal with the United States national basketball team. A native of Winston-Salem, NC and an All-American at Wake Forest University, Paul currently holds the NBA record for consecutive games with a steal (108). He was a 2008-2009 NBA All-Defensive First Team selection and 2009-2010 Second Team selection. Off the court, Mr. Paul started the CP3 Foundation with his family in 2006 to support his philanthropic efforts in both Winston-Salem and New Orleans, which include refurbishing basketball courts and establishing scholarships.

Curtis Pride, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Curtis Pride is the head baseball coach at Gallaudet University in Washington, DC, and a retired Major League Baseball player. In 1996 as a member of the Detroit Tigers, Mr. Pride became the first regular full-season deaf player in the modern history of major league baseball. At the close of his career in 2008, he had played 421 games, achieved a .250 career batting average, 20 home runs, and 82 runs batted in. Prior to his professional career, his athletic proficiency spanned several sports. In high school he was a member of the U.S. soccer team that participated in the Junior World Cup in Beijing. In college he played part-time professional baseball for the Mets organization while also attending the College of William and Mary as a four-year starting point guard in basketball. In addition to coaching, Mr. Pride is active in the community, particularly with his Together With Pride foundation which aids hearing impaired children.

Donna Richardson Joyner, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Donna Richardson Joyner is a fitness instructor who has spent more than 20 years working to educate, empower, and energize children, women, and families about living healthy lifestyles. She has starred in more than 25 award-winning fitness videos, including “Sweating in the Spirit,” and “Body Gospel.” Ms. Richardson Joyner has served on the Women’s Sports Foundation Board of Trustees, is an advisory board member for the Boys and Girls Club of America, and serves on the national advisory board of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Center to Prevent Childhood Obesity. She has lectured and conducted wellness seminars at schools and community centers in more than 30 countries. In 2006 Ms. Richardson Joyner was inducted into the Fitness Hall of Fame and named by Essence Magazine as one of the 25 most inspiring women in America.

Ian Smith, Appointee for Member, President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition

Ian Smith is a prominent healthy-living advocate. He is best known for his promotion of the 50 Million Pound Challenge and his contributions to TV and radio programs including “Rachael Ray”, “The View”, “Celebrity Fit Club”, and HealthWatch. Dr. Smith is also the author of seven books which include three New York Times bestsellers on nutrition. He currently serves on the national advisory board for the Maya Angelou Center for Health Equity at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. Dr. Smith attended Dartmouth Medical School before completing the last two years of his medical education at the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine. He received his master’s in science education from Teachers College of Columbia University and undergraduate degree from Harvard College.

###

2009-02-14T13:33:00.000-08:00

Olympian To Speak At JLLS Luncheon

2009-01-25T21:43:00.000-08:00

Source: Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma Newsletter, Jan 2009

We are excited to announce that Olympic Gold Medalist Dominique Dawes will be the guest speaker at this year's JLLS Luncheon -- Feb. 19 at the Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club. Tickets for the event are $60 per person and went on sale Jan. 15.

“We are very fortunate to have Dominique speak at the luncheon this year,” said Karen Luke and Charlotte Richels, luncheon co-chairs. “The mission of the Juliette Low Leadership Society is to share the message of the wonderful influence Girl Scouts makes in the life of a girl, and to help garner financial support for enhanced opportunities that encourage girls to be leaders in their communities. Dominique exemplifies that mission as a leader in sports, motivational speaker and broadcaster, and we are honored that she has chosen to share this important day with us and for Girl Scouts.”

Dawes, 31, is an accomplished motivational speaker, broadcaster, national spokeswoman, Broadway performer, part-time coach and gymnastics clinician who also conducts self-esteem and fitness workshops. She says that while competing in gymnastics was such an important part of her life for so many years, championing other causes has become her focus now.

“People always ask me what my most memorable moment was in my career, and I always answer by saying, ‘My most memorable moments continue to happen today,’” Dawes said. “When I have the opportunity to inspire someone to envision more for their lives or to reach their full potential, I try to capture it.

“I try to impress in young people that it’s not about the glamour of the gold, or the endorsements or reaching a certain salary, but it’s more important to make a difference in someone else’s life. That’s what I think makes you a more fulfilled person.”

Dawes has served as a spokeswoman for the Girl Scouts of America’s Uniquely Me program, Dove’s Campaign for Real Beauty – a program that GS-West offers to thousands of Girl Scouts through it’s In-School program.

To purchase a ticket to the luncheon, call (405) 528-3535.

Oklahoma Social Innovation Challenge 2009

2009-01-23T20:52:00.000-08:00

Social Innovation Challenge 2009
Statewide Call for Student Entries

A few facts*:
~ Oklahoma has more women in prison per capita, than any other state in the nation
~ 75% of the women were convicted of a non-violent crime
~ 81% of the women have dependent children
~ A child of an incarcerated mother is 3 times more likely to be involved in the criminal justice system
~ It costs taxpayers $19,487 a year to keep each female inmate in prison

The challenge:
Oklahoma's moms-in-jail issue is urgent because of the "ripple effects" it exerts on our communities' children, the extended family members, and our economy. We want you to team up with other students at your school and prepare an entry that responds to this year's challenge:

Create a 5-7 minute video that clearly demonstrates an activity or action you took that made a difference on this issue - how you effectively remedied / improved / redressed / increased awareness of /... the ripple effects of Oklahoma's incarcerated moms.

For example, your team may focus on the legislator-society interaction and have a petition drive and send signatures to Governor Henry and your state legislators. You might focus on the society-children interaction, hit the streets and take up donations of food items and put on a small dinner theater for the kids or host a community fashion show with the female children as models. Maybe you want to focus on several interactions and use the Internet to help all the parties communicate more effectively, receive training, etc. A focus on interactions with not-for-profit agencies could lead you to research services that are already available (e.g., Big Brothers Big Sisters, YMCA camps) and show how you improved their access or connection to the children, caregivers, and women. You may have your own idea, and you can show off a new not-for-profit agency specifically designed to help Oklahoma address this issue."

Bottom line: Your goal is to make a change, no matter how big or small.

Prizes for top entries!

Entries should be action-oriented, and represent "HERE'S WHAT WE DID" rather than "Here is what somebody ought to do." This is a complex issue - Small effects are expected, appreciated, and welcome!

Learn more about the competition and sign up your team at: http://studioblue.utulsa.edu .

Once your team signs up, you will be sent a wealth of background information, videos, stories, and statistics on this important issue. As you form your plans, it may help you to consider the parties involved and how to improve some of the interactions between:

~ moms and their children
~ moms and the caregivers of their children
~ caregivers and the children
~ society (neighborhoods, community members) and the children
~ businesses and the caregivers

~ businesses and the moms
~ not-for-profit agencies and caregivers
~ public services and the children
~ the Department of Human Services and the caregivers
~ educational institutions and the moms
~ legislators and the moms
~ legislators and the caregivers
~ legislators and society

Your entry: A 5-7 minute video of your idea, the action and activity you did, and the result. Videos must be posted to the competition's designated website by 12:00 noon on Monday, March 30, 2009.

Three criteria will be used to evaluate entries: potential impact, originality, and transferability. Judges will be drawn from industry, funding organizations, the Oklahoma legislature, and the not-for-profit sector.

The top 20 entries will be invited to Tulsa to present their work at the Social Innovation Summit event on April 10 to Oklahoma dignitaries (e.g., legislators, foundation representatives, state officials, not-for-profit agency directors), to discuss future actions with those attending, and to receive some nice awards.

Sponsors: The George Kaiser Family Foundation, Campus Compact, Oklahoma Academy, Creative Oklahoma, Oklahoma Department of Corrections, the University of Tulsa, Studio Blue, the Collins College of Business, and GitWit Creative.

Questions? Email studioblue@utulsa.edu or contact Dr. Charles Wood (918) 631-2281, charles-wood@utulsa.edu

* Source: Special Task Force for Women Incarcerated in Oklahoma (Created by S.B. 810 of 2003 Legislative Session) REPORT to the Governor, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, January 5, 2004. http://www.ocjrc.net/pubFiles/OtherPub/R-S/stffwiio.pdf

Jean Warner's Short Bio

2009-01-18T21:27:00.000-08:00

Jean Warner authors a website/blog under the heading of the Oklahoma Women’s Network Blog. The goal of the blog is celebrate, inform, and empower Oklahoma women and girls.

Dr. Warner is co-founder of The Oklahoma Women’s Coalition, a statewide nonprofit organization organized in 2008 to advocate on behalf of Oklahoma women and girls at the State level. She served as the first OWC chair and now serves on the board and chairs the Leadership Development Committee.

Jean has a PhD from the University of Oklahoma in Political Science. Along with Norman Mayor Cindy Rosenthal, she co-founded and coordinated Oklahoma's National Education for Women’s Leadership program. NEW Leadership is a five-day leadership academy hosted each May for undergraduate women across Oklahoma designed to educate, inspire, and empower participants to become political leaders.

Jean lives in Oklahoma City with her husband Larkin who is a retired Regents Professor of Economic from Oklahoma State University. She has led three mission trips to Central Kenya to build a children's library and make improvements at a school for deaf children and a school for mentally challenged children in Meru.

Warner received the YWCA of Oklahoma City's "Embrace Award" in June of 2009, the "Pioneer Woman Award" from the Oklahoma Women's Coalition in June of 2010, and was named by The Journal Record as one of "Fifty Women Making a Difference in Oklahoma" in October of 2010.

Dominique Dawes

2008-12-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

OLYMPIC GOLD MEDAL-WINNING GYMNAST AND THREE-TIME OLYMPIAN DOMINIQUE DAWES CRAFTING A SECOND CAREER AS A MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER, SPOKESWOMAN, BROADCASTER

Dawes won Gold with the ‘Magnificent Seven’ at the 1996 Atlanta Games, became first African-American female gymnast to win individual medal with bronze on floor

Rockville, Md. (June 9, 2008) — For most people, the lasting images of Dominique Dawes are of a pint-sized gymnast twisting and tumbling her way to Olympic glory, then victoriously raising a bouquet of flowers with her teammates as the United States team – forever known as the “Magnificent Seven” – received its gold medals at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta.

Dawes, a three-time Olympic medalist and a four-time medalist at the World Championships of gymnastics, will forever be remembered for those heroics, achieved at the young age of 19. But nearly seven years after her latest Olympic feat, she has become much more than a champion gymnast.

Dawes, 31, is an accomplished motivational speaker, broadcaster, national spokeswoman, Broadway performer, part-time coach and gymnastics clinician who also conducts self-esteem and fitness workshops. She says that while competing in gymnastics was such an important part of her life for so many years, championing other causes has become her focus now.

“People always ask me what my most memorable moment was in my career, and I always answer by saying, ‘My most memorable moments continue to happen today,’” Dawes said. “When I have the opportunity to inspire someone to envision more for their lives or to reach their full potential, I try to capture it.

“I try to impress in young people that it’s not about the glamour of the gold, or the endorsements or reaching a certain salary, but it’s more important to make a difference in someone else’s life. That’s what I think makes you a more fulfilled person.”

With the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing approaching, if you would like to schedule Dawes for an interview or other media appearance, please contact us. Dawes can talk about athletes’ preparations for the Games, her Olympic memories, diet and body-image issues among athletes and motivational issues, and other topics.

Dawes was not only the first female African-American gymnast to win an individual medal, but also the only U.S. gymnast to compete in three modern Olympic Games. She was best known for her up-and-back tumbling past that consisted of 11 flips in a row, tumbling from one end of the floor to the other. One of her most memorable achievements was at the ’96 Games, when she tumbled and danced her way to a bronze medal in the floor exercise.

After her competitive career wound down with an appearance in the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Dawes earned a degree in communications from the University of Maryland and set out to put her education and the fame associated with her Olympic success to good use. She has done work in broadcasting – commentating from national and international competitions – but she has focused a large portion of her attention on motivational speaking and campaigns to support women and youth’s self-esteem and other health and wellness issues.

Dawes has been involved in motivational speaking for 11 years, talking to schools and groups of young people about health, wellness and building self-esteem. She recently developed a 30-minute motivational CD aimed at teens and tweens titled “Envision: Reaching Your Full Potential” to get her message out to more people.

Capitalizing on a platform that has allowed her to capture the attention of millions of people, Dawes has served as a spokeswoman for the Girl Scouts of America’s Uniquely Me program, Dove’s Campaign for Real Beauty and the American Heart Association’s Choose to Move program. She serves as a past president of the Women’s Sports Foundation and on the athlete committee for USA Gymnastics as well as Sesame Street’s Health Advisory Committee. While the majority of her work is aimed toward women and youth, Dawes also speaks to corporations and non-profit organizations on leadership skills, goal-setting and teamwork. She has served as an event host or master of ceremonies at many events as well.

Between those duties, Dawes also works as a part-time coach with young athletes and offers a fundamental gymnastics clinic, in which she travels to gym facilities and provides a full day of gymnastics instruction and motivation for young aspiring gymnasts.

Dawes began competing in gymnastics at the age of 6 and spent the better part of 20 years in a gym – but she can’t envision doing that for the rest of her life. She said she has found a new purpose and passion, and that is working to improve the lives of others and sharing the story of her trials and triumphs.

“What motivates me now is realizing that this is my passion – teaching and speaking about the issues that are near and dear to me are my passions,” Dawes said. “Knowing that I can make a difference, whether it’s through writing, coaching, public speaking or teaming up with certain non-profits or initiatives that corporations have – knowing that I can make a difference in someone else’s life – is what motivates me.”

Having overcome many obstacles and having been taken under the wing of her one and only coach, Kelli Hill, at a young age, Dawes knows the power of self esteem, positive reinforcement and solid role models. Remembering the support she received as a child trying to grasp a dream as difficult as Olympic gold, she said, drives her to support young girls and women in sports and other aspects of life.

“I truly believe competition in gymnastics prepared me for life,” Dawes said.

“I also feel that my talent is in motivational speaking, in empowering other people. I am a strong believer in my faith, and I believe that if you are blessed with a certain talent, that you shouldn’t waste it. That’s what motivates me each and every day, knowing that I’ve been blessed with this and that I can make a difference in someone else’s life.”

Dawes attributes much of her success to positive reinforcement and the endless encouragement she received from Hill. Because of that, she is dedicated to using her positive attitude and outlook to help others.

“The saying ‘Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words can never break me’ is a myth. … I know from experience that negative words can damage but positive words can heal and empower,” Dawes said. “My goal in life is to empower and make a positive impact with all that I do.”

Update from A Perfect Cause's Wes Bledsoe Fri 11/7/2008

2008-11-10T11:37:00.000-08:00

Here’s to ending the week on an excellent note!

Committee Meeting

Yesterday’s Long-Term Care Facilities Advisory Board Ad Hoc Committee meeting to address policy on reporting criminal acts to law enforcement was a great success!

Together with the Board’s committee members, Dept. of Health officials, industry representatives, families (Curnutt, Kipps, and Goings), Shannon from the YWCA, Deana, and yours truly… we came to agreement on the policy which A Perfect Cause proposed, with relatively minor modifications that enhanced what we originally proposed.

Not only does the policy address the immediate reporting of ALL criminal acts to law enforcement, it also addresses crime scene preservation, and rape / sexual assault examinations!!!

At the end of the meeting, board members, and Dept. of Health officials commented on how successful the meeting was and that it was one of the best committee meetings the board had ever conducted. This is very exciting as this gives us even more opportunities in the future to address and resolve other critical issues.

Today, the Attorney General’s office agreed to review our modified policy recommendation and provide us with additional legal and wordsmithing support!

Crow Case

Ms. Crow was not able to offer any new information during her interview with the Norman Police Dept. on Wednesday. However, we did fight for… and did secure… the opportunity for her to be interviewed and to attempt to ID her assailant. So on that note… it was a victory!

One another note… It appears the reward we offered for information about what happened to Ms. Crow, the leads we received, and the information we were able to share with the state is leading to some very exciting… albeit disturbing news!

We should receive the state’s investigative report in a few days… from what we’ve been told… the report is “big, VERY BIG!” Again that nursing home is Whispering Pines in Norman, OK.

So it is getting cited for numerous deficiencies, which also opened some criminal investigations.

I’ll let you know as soon as we hear more.

Capitol Hill

Deana and I attended both the Republican and Democrat Watch Parties in OKC on Tuesday evening. As soon as we entered the Republican Watch Party we literally ran into Congresswoman Mary Fallin’s Chief of Staff from DC. In talking with the Congresswoman’s Chief of Staff and later the Congresswoman… both offered and acknowledged their support to present Oklahoma’s Sex Offenders Long Term Care Facility Law to Congress in the upcoming session!

Plus, if we can get some help, we can possibly add reporting criminal acts to law enforcement into the bill. The help we need is to ID the laws and policies addressing the immediate reporting of criminal acts to the police. What we’re finding is… the few laws we’ve been able to explore outside of Oklahoma are calling for staff to contact state agencies… not law enforcement when criminal acts occur in facilities.

More Legislative News

We also ran into Oklahoma State Rep. Kris Steele at the same watch party, where he gave us a huge welcome and extended his offer to carry more legislation for us in the upcoming state session. Again, Kris Steele is an amazing man… and one I am personally thrilled to have the opportunity to work with on these very important issues.

Later at the Democrat Watch Party, Oklahoma State Rep. Anastasia Pittman offered to co-author and / or sponsor bills for us.

At both parties, we were extremely well received… including very warm greetings from many of the reporters and videographers who were present.

Upcoming Meeting

So my friend, we really are making some head way.

We can of course do much more… with your help.

So please plan to attend our next meeting on Nov. 20 at 6 pm CST at our office… and invite your family, friends, and associates to come with you.

If you cannot attend, but want to help… please let me know and we can find a project where you can help us.

In the meantime, thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and support!

This is an exciting time… and I’m glad I can share these exciting experiences with you!
Thank you for all!

Wes

Wes Bledsoe
Citizens’ Advocate & Founder
A Perfect Cause
1501 N. Broadway Blvd., Bldg B
Oklahoma City, OK 73103
C – 405.308.3858
C – 405.802.2903
Wes@APerfectCause.org
www.APerfectCause.org

Our Mission - To End Needless Suffering & Preventable Deaths

"A Perfect Cause must produce a perfect effect."
Science of Mind, Dr. Ernest Holmes

panelists

2008-10-31T16:19:00.000-07:00

Expert Speaker Panel:

• Judy Murphy, Co-Founder and Co-Facilitator of Moms Off Meth (MOM), Supervisor of the HOPE substance abuse program in Ottumwa, Iowa. Former Meth Specialist, Iowa Department of Human Services Judy Murphy has been actively supporting recovering women's issues since 1995.

• Sarah Roberts, MPH, Doctor of Public Health (Dr PH) Candidate. Ms. Roberts' work focuses on the role of public health departments in addressing pregnancy, drug use, prenatal care and drug treatment. She works with family, maternal and child health programs at Contra Costa Health Services in California.

• Eli Reshef, MD, Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist, Medical Director, Integris Bennett Fertility Institute and Clinical Associate Professor, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Dr. Reshef is a graduate of Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. He is a member of the board of the Oklahoma State Medical Association and has been practicing for 24 years.

• Dana G. Stone, MD, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Dr. Stone serves as the Oklahoma state representative to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). She graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine and has been practicing for 17 years.

Moderator: Carol Mason, PhD, Director, Gender and Women's Studies, Oklahoma State University. Dr. Mason is the author of two books, Killing for Life and Reading Appalachia from Left to Right from Cornell University Press and many articles on issues of gender, race and reproduction.

Co-sponsors include the National Association of Social Workers, Oklahoma Chapter; Gender and Women's Studies at Oklahoma State University; and The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oklahoma Chapter.

Nominations Requested for Oklahoma Women's Hall of Fame

2008-10-25T14:42:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 10, 2008

For more information, contact:

Chris Morriss, Chairman
(405) 522-6897
4100 N. Lincoln Blvd., G-80
OKC, OK 73105
E-mail: chris.morriss@sos.ok.gov
ocsw@opm.ok.gov

NOMINATIONS REQUESTED FOR OK WOMEN’S HALL OF FAME

The Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women is excited to open nominations for the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame. Only Oklahoma women are eligible to be inducted into the Hall of Fame which includes women who have lived in the state for most of their lives or who are easily identified or who have identified themselves publicly as Oklahomans.

“There is such a great wellspring of talented women in the state of Oklahoma. Every day we encounter women who lead and inspire us but may not have been recognized for their contributions to women and to Oklahoma. We want to recognize those women who exemplify the Oklahoma Spirit and include them in the ranks of the prominent and distinguished women of the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame,” says Chris Morriss, Chair of the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women.

The Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame was created in 1982 by the commission and Governor George Nigh to honor Oklahoma women who were pioneers in their field or in a project that benefited Oklahoma; who made a significant contribution to the state of Oklahoma; who served or had served as role models to other Oklahoma women; who may be unsung heroines and had made a difference in the lives of Oklahomans or Americans because of their actions; who had championed other women, women’s issues, or served as policy advocates for the issues important to women; and who exemplified the Oklahoma spirit. Since 1982, there have been eighty women inducted into the Women’s Hall of Fame and their contributions span a variety of careers, issues and activities.

Nomination forms and a complete list of inductees may be obtained by emailing the Commission office at ocsw@opm.ok.gov or calling (405) 524-6897. The Event Co-Chairs can also be contacted for questions, Mary P. Walker at (918) 582-8660 or Joyce Martin at (918) 355-1985. The nomination period will run through November 15, 2008. Nomination forms and supporting materials must be postmarked by November 15th. Nominations forms should be mailed to The Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women, 4100 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105. Those women chosen as the 2009 Inductees will be honored at a ceremony on March 26, 2009 at the Oklahoma State Capitol.

The Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame is one of several events sponsored by the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of women to support its mission, “To improve the quality of life for women, children and families in Oklahoma.”

###

The Fitzgerald's Explanation of the Supreme Court Case

2008-10-12T20:34:00.000-07:00

Fitzgerald has left a new comment on your post "Supreme Court Preview":

There is a slow emergence of blog comments regarding Fitzgerald v. Barnstable on the internet. It would be helpful if some of the underlying depositional facts associated with the case were made available to readers. In 2001 in the Barnstable School System, bus policy was individually established by the principals at each school within the district. This case arose as a result of a school approved policy of moving bullies to the front of the school bus – ostensibly to remove them from other students and allow the driver to keep an eye on them. What the policy did not take into account is the fact that the drivers have to watch the road, and for the most part their rear view mirrors are angled to view the rear seats – not the front seats. When the Barnstable school system decided to save money by eliminating the kindergarten buses and putting those students on the regular buses, Hyannis West Elementary did not update the bully placement policy. School policy, therefore, put the worst offending bullies directly behind the kindergarten students on the bus rides to and from school. It took our five year old daughter six months to finally tell us what had been happening on the bus from day one – every time she wore a dress, the boy assigned to the seat behind her would lean over her seat and make her lift her dress, pull down her underwear and spread her legs. On February 14, 2001, the day we learned of our daughter’s plight, we informed her principal and were told an investigation would be conducted to determine who the boy was. What did the investigation consist of? Well, the principal chose the school’s $11,000 per year prevention specialist/the lunchroom monitor (quite possibly the lowest paid full time position in the school) to head up the investigation. The Barnstable school system had a trained Title IX officer – he was never informed of nor consulted regarding the allegations (superintendent and principal’s depositions). The seating policy was enforced by the bus driver – she was never asked who sat behind our daughter, nor was she informed by the school of the allegations (bus driver’s affidavit). The investigation consisted of requiring our daughter to identify the bully. He did not ride the bus the next day, so our daughter could not point him out, she did however point out two girls that sat near her. These girls confirmed the harassment happened (witness’ affidavits). The following day the bully was pointed out by our daughter. The “prevention specialist” provided the names of the witnesses and bully to the principal, whereupon he dismissed her from the investigation (prevention specialist’s deposition and police report). The principal did not forward the full statements of the witnesses to the police (detective’s deposition). The entire school investigation was completed in two days and the principal’s conclusion was that the school could do nothing due to the fact that the only witnesses were other kindergarten kids and the bully did not admit to his actions. (anyone else notice a conflict of interest between having the person who set the bus policy also being in charge of directing, ending and acting as liaison for the investigation?). The only option provided to us was for us to involve the police and if they found evidence of a crime, then the school would respond appropriately. On February 14, 2001 we had begun driving our daughter to and from school, by February 16th, we were requesting that the school remove the bully from the bus, separate the upper class bullies from the younger riders and provide a monitor for our daughter’s bus. On March 1, 2001 the school changed our daughter’s bus assignment. The new bus would have no monitor, no change to the seating policy and no reprimand to the bully. We continued driving her ourselves. The police investigation dragged on for some time and eventually determined that because there was no physical contact, there were no grounds for a criminal complaint. In late April / early May, the clerk magistrate handling the criminal case informed us that it was that the school system – not the court system – that needed to properly address the problem. At this point the school began to adopt an attitude (based on the police failing to criminally prosecute) that “nothing happened on the bus,” and refused to do anything that could be construed as admitting there had been and still was a problem. The school failed to inform our daughter’s teachers of the harassment, so they did not know to keep her away from the bully; the school did not ask the bully to stay away from her, and the school repeatedly removed medical records in our daughter’s school file that referenced the harassment. Nothing was done to address the anxiety our daughter endured each time she encountered the bully at school, although the principal did respond to our concerns by telling us his hands were tied and there was nothing he could or would do. Of particular note was the fact that the bully was frequently allowed to walk through our daughter’s gym class (for no apparent reason) and in one instance was invited to join her class. She was made to “high-five” the bully as a show of good sportsmanship. When the principal refused to ask the bully to not walk through the gym class, we took advantage of the “Wednesday classroom observation program” and began sitting in on her Wednesday gym classes. Our observation usually consisted of sitting against the wall, reading the newspaper and watching the bully walk through her class with complete impunity. Rather than ask the bully to stop disrupting her class by walking through it, the gym teacher complained to the principal. Despite the “open door policy” for classroom observations, we were told by the principal that in order to continue, we would have to provide a doctor’s note authorizing our presence – our daughter’s doctor was so shocked by the requirement she provided the school with a note characterizing the gym class as counter-productive to her therapy. All four of the adults in the Barnstable school system involved with this case (superintendent, assistant superintendent, principal, and lunchroom monitor) were asked in their depositions if they had ever checked to see how our daughter was doing after they first became aware of the harassment, each one said, “No”. So much for no child left behind.

Now to the court case. The first Court to rule on the facts applied the three prong test for compliancy and determined that the harassment did indeed rise to the level of a Title IX infraction due to the severity and repulsiveness of the incidents, that the school did have actual notice of the harassment, but that the post-notification harassment did not rise to the same level as the pre-notification harassment. The Court therefore determined (without specifically identifying it) that whatever response the school made to the allegations must have been appropriate (based on the cessation of overt sexual harassment) and therefore the school could not be held liable for violating Title IX. The Appeals Court accepted the lower Court’s factual findings (that the harassment occurred and was egregious enough to warrant invoking Title IX), and further determined that the after notice harassment did not need to rise to the same level as the pre-notification harassment in order to maintain a Title IX infraction. However, instead of reversing the lower court’s decision, the Appeals Court affirmed it on the basis that Title IX requires nothing more than a response from the school – it does not have to actually correct the situation. In this case, the Court determined that moving the victim to another bus and shrugging their shoulders in response to additional complaints, were considered appropriate enough responses for the school to be in compliance with the strictures of Title IX. Both courts affirmed the preclusion of Sec 1983 by Title IX without considering the differences between the two.

What are those differences? Other than the obvious difference of who can be held at fault (institutions under Title IX; individuals under Sec 1983), precedent has established the main difference between Title IX and Sec 1983. Title IX requires a school to respond to incidents of sexual harassment or discrimination; Sec 1983 requires a school to correct incidents of sexual harassment or discrimination. By example, Brown v The Board of Education was a Sec 1983 case, the Court required the school to correct the discrimination inherent in the “separate but equal” responses school systems had made to the then prevalent attitudes in the nation’s social makeup. Title IX’s history is rooted in the application of Sec 1983 to incidents of schools’ failures to break free from the bonds of outdated and unacceptable stereotypical social attitudes. Discrimination against women and girls in both primary and secondary education, as well as graduate education were rampant in the first half of the 20th century. The programs and curriculums of a vast majority of educational facilities were geared more so towards male achievement in a larger number of disciplines, and less so towards female achievement. Title IX was enacted to address that discrepancy, but Sec 1983 was still there to enforce it. The backing of Sec 1983 was enough for many school systems to use their response to Title IX violations to correct the situation, thereby negating the need to address Sec 1983 directly. Thirty five years of Title IX has evidently led many schools and courts to forget the role of Sec 1983 – Title IX is the soft walk; Sec 1983 is the big stick. To put it more aptly, if Title IX and Sec 1983 were to be applied to the problem of a bridge having been washed out, Title IX would be satisfied with the posting of a sign saying “Bridge Out”, while Sec 1983 would require the replacement of the bridge. In those districts where the response to a washed out bridge is to correct it by replacing the bridge, it would be perfectly fine to say that Title IX has precluded Sec 1983; but in those districts that respond with just a sign, to claim preclusion of Sec 1983 would be a disservice to the Constitution. Reassigning our daughter to another bus without correcting the seating policy on the buses can be classified as a response under the requirements of Title IX, but it did little to address the correction requirements of Sec 1983 (And as far as the Court stating that the school also offered to separate the bullies from the kindergarten students – it didn’t happen. The school attorney stated in court that the Barnstable school system did not change the seating policy and could not provide a reason why. Additionally, the superintendent, when asked about the effect of the seating policy on other kindergarten students and his failure to correct it, stated in his deposition, “We didn't see that as a problem. Mr. Fitzgerald and Mrs. Fitzgerald see it as a problem. We don't."). Unfortunately, Title IX has to deal with problems much more complex than a washed out bridge, but the language is there for it to appropriately address those problems, so long as school administrators remain mindful of the statue backing it up.

Fitzgerald v Barnstable should provide the Supreme Court justices with ample evidence of the failure of Title IX to survive the onslaught of school attorneys’ efforts to justify their districts’ stubborn refusals to simply abide by statutory law and do the right thing when confronted with an incident of sexual harassment – how hard would it have been to just put a monitor on the bus seven years ago? According to the superintendent, it would have been a simple thing to do. He just chose not to do it. The image of three monkeys (with a slight change) comes to mind – see no evil, hear no evil, fix no evil. The systematic indifference to acknowledging the need to address a problem has created an insidious mindset in school administrators of purposely denying a problem exists. Too often the difficulty of confronting a school system steeped in money, legal advice, and public support results in the inability of parents to effect real change in the illusory protections offered by schools. It’s a shame to realize that a school system would spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to defend a problem, and not a dime to fix it. It’s time for schools to stop paying attorneys to mask the issue of bullying and start paying people to fix it. The bill is much cheaper in the end. The Court has the opportunity now before it to remind school administrators of their responsibly to recognize the problems on their buses, on their playgrounds, and in their halls and to address those problems in a meaningful way.

Lisa and Bob Fitzgerald

Posted by Fitzgerald to Oklahoma Women's Network Blog at 5:06 PM Sun 10/12/2008

Severe Weather Testing Protocols

2008-04-09T14:57:00.000-07:00

Should a severe weather situation occur during testing, please remain calm. To display any kind of anxiety would be a testing irregularity and must be reported.

Please do not look out the window to watch for approaching tornadoes. You must monitor the students at all times. To do otherwise would be a testing irregularity and must be reported.

Should students notice an approaching tornado and begin to cry, please make every effort to protect their testing materials from the flow of tears and sinus drainage.

Should a flying object come through your window during testing, please make every effort to ensure that it does not land on a testing booklet or an answer sheet. Please make sure to soften the landing of the flying object so that it will not disturb the students while testing.

Should shards of glass from a broken window come flying into the room, have the students use their bodies to shield their testing materials so that they will not be damaged. Have plenty of gauze on hand to ensure that no one accidentally bleeds on the answer documents. Damaged answer sheets will not scan properly.

Should gale force winds ensue, please have everyone stuff their test booklets and answer sheets into their shirts�being very careful not to bend them because bent answer documents will not scan properly.

If any student gets sucked into the vortex of the funnel cloud, please make sure they mark at least one answer before departing�and of course make sure they leave their answer sheets and test booklets behind. You will have to account for those.

Should a funnel cloud pick you, the test administrator, up and take you flying over the rainbow, you will still be required to account for all of your testing materials when you land so please take extra precautions. Remember, once you have checked them out, they should never leave your hands.

When rescue workers arrive to dig you out of the rubble, please make sure that they do not, at any time, look at or handle the testing materials. Once you have been treated for your injuries, you will still be responsible for checking your materials back in. Search dogs will not be allowed to sift through the rubble for lost tests�unless of course they have been through standardized test training.

Please do not pray should a severe weather situation arise. Your priority is to actively monitor the test and a student might mark in the wrong section if you are praying instead of monitoring. I'm sure God will put war, world hunger, crime, and the presidential primaries on hold until after testing is over. He knows how important this test is.

House Bill 2704 and Violence in Nursing Homes

2008-02-27T06:00:00.000-08:00

Since April 2004, Wes Bledsoe has documented over 1600 registered sex offenders who are living as residents in America’s nursing homes.

In addition, he has uncovered inmates, parolees, sex offenders who are not required to register, felons, violent offenders found incompetent to stand trial, and residents who assault others but are never charged due to mental incompetence of the assailant and / or victim(s).

Bledsoe has documented over 50 murders, rapes, sexual and physical assaults committed by criminal offenders while living in long-term care facilities across the nation. Bledsoe has documented several cases of rape and assault committed by offenders while living in Oklahoma’s long-term care facilities.

Action on HB 2704 was prompted last May, after Bledsoe reported that Earl Bradford Postelle (43) had been ordered to reside in the Oak Hills Nursing Center, in Jones, by Judge Ray C. Elliott. Postelle was accused of killing three men and one woman on Memorial Day in 2005, with assault weapons. Postelle was later found to be incompetent to stand trial due to a motorcycle accident after the murders.

During the intense media coverage last May, Rep. Kris Steele contacted Bledsoe pledging his support to sponsor a bill to create a special long-term care facility for criminal offenders.

During an Interim Study last October, Bledsoe presented documentation to state representatives that 57 registered sex offenders had been found in Oklahoma nursing homes and other long-term care facilities since he began his research in April 2004.

In October 2007, 30 registered sex offenders were currently residing in facilities – 16 in nursing homes and 14 in residential care facilities. Twelve were listed by the Department of Corrections as “Aggravated” and two were identified as “Habitual” sex offenders. 29 of the 30 were male.

The 30 offenders’ ages ranged as follows.

20’s – 2
40’s – 7
50’s – 11
60’s – 4
70’s – 3
80’s – 3

26 of the offenders we convicted since 1990.

Offenses included rape, kidnapping, sexual battery, lewd or indecent proposals / acts to child, crime against nature / sodomy, solicit minor for indecent expose / photos, prepare / dist / exhibit obscene material, and indecent exposure.

Of the 27 registered sex offenders who had been previously identified by Bledsoe, seven were listed on the Department of Corrections website as “Delinquent” for failing to register, 13 were no longer posted on the sex offender registry site, and seven had moved to private residences.

Bledsoe has further documented with news reports, police records, and court documents that elderly, “incapacitated,” wheelchair bound offenders and child molesters do pose a threat to disabled and elderly adults, staff and visitors. While Bledsoe was working with a Dallas TV station, the reporters uncovered the sexual assault of a three-year-old little girl while she was visiting her great-grandfather in a Richardson, TX nursing home.

Bledsoe’s efforts sparked a federal investigation in 2004, with the support of former U.S. Representative Brad Carson by the Government Accountability Office (GAO). The GAO supported Bledsoe’s findings that over half of the registered sex offenders found in nursing homes were under 65 years of age – while 90 percent of nursing home residents were 65 or older. Two-thirds of the residents in nursing homes are female. 99 percent of the offenders living in nursing homes were male.

“This indicates an obvious inappropriate placement of these offenders with unsuspecting, vulnerable nursing home residents,” states Bledsoe.

Bledsoe hopes the Oklahoma legislature with pass Steele’s bill and that it will be signed by Governor Henry. Bledsoe believes the bill will serve as model legislation for other states, much like Oklahoma’s methamphetamine statues.

The Oklahoma State House of Representatives, Public Health Committee is scheduled to hear HB 207 on Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 10:30 am in room 432A.

To contact Wes Bledsoe – Cell (405) 308.3858 – Email Wes@APerfectCause.org.

Industry Experts Predict Economic Impact of Oklahoma’s Biofuel Growth

2007-10-02T23:45:00.000-07:00

The biofuels industry has taken root in Oklahoma and as it begins to grow, researchers, capital investors, farmers and ranchers grapple with the decisions that will ensure this emerging industry’s success.

Other states, such as Nebraska, have a robust biofuels industry that is dependent upon corn to produce starch-based ethanol. This approach has resulted in higher grain prices for ranchers and rising food prices for consumers nationwide. Oklahoma is positioned to not only produce starch-based ethanol and seed oil based-biodiesel but to use cellulosic biomass to create ethanol. Cellulosic biomass is plant material from grasses and forage, crops and crop residue, forestry waste and other sources that can be converted into cellulosic ethanol.

“Oklahoma has the opportunity to develop and invest in ways to produce biofuels that don’t affect food, feed or fiber,” said Ray Huhnke, P.E., professor of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering at Oklahoma State University. “Evaluating the best types of biomass to grow, the best conversion processes to use and the best places to locate conversion facilities in our state will create an industry that is successful and sustainable, without the negative impacts of using a already dedicated food source to produce biofuel.”

Calculations from OSU indicate that a biorefinery producing 50-million gallons per year will create more than 270 jobs including 30 plant personnel, 50 truck drivers and 190 agricultural workers. Biomass from approximately 45,000 acres would be needed by a biorefinery for the ethanol conversion process. Conservatively, the economic impact for Oklahoma per biorefinery could be $40 million each year.

Over the last 15 months, various organizations have announced plans to build four biorefineries in Oklahoma communities including Shattuck, Guymon, Enid and Blackwell. Oklahoma’s goal is to produce and market 200 million gallons of ethanol per year within the next 10 years.

The federal government has also recognized the need for alternatives to foreign oil and mandated the annual production of 35 billion gallons of biofuels by 2017. In 2006, the U.S. only produced about 5 billion gallons of biofuels, mostly from ethanol.

“We are witnessing the creation of a new industry,” said Joe Bouton, Ph.D., senior vice president, director of the Forage Improvement Division and scientist for The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation. “This industry can provide the world what it’s been waiting for – a renewable, economically viable and environmentally friendly source of fuel. Oklahoma is well positioned to take a leadership role in this new industry”

The demands of a thriving biofuel industry also will impact Oklahoma higher education. While the need for chemical, mechanical, microbiology and biosystems engineers will increase, other states in the Midwest experiencing biofuels industry growth have progressively created new educational opportunities and trainings to keep the workforce in-step with the demands of the industry. For example, at Southern Illinois University, the university now offers intensive, work force training “boot-camps” to educate potential ethanol plant operators.

OSU, the University of Oklahoma as well as the Noble Foundation are actively engaged in research that will position Oklahoma as a leader in production of cellulosic ethanol.

The Oklahoma Biofuels Conference, October 16 and 17, 2007 in Oklahoma City will offer those in the agriculture, biotechnology and the energy industries the opportunity to discover more about the biofuel future from national, regional and local presenters. Conference attendees will be updated on developments related to the new Oklahoma Bioenergy Center research initiative, development of feedstock varieties, advances in biorefinery technology, new federal funding for energy crops, the debate over fuel versus food, water usage, carbon control policies and more.

James Woolsey, former director of the CIA, will be a keynote speaker at the Oklahoma Biofuels Conference and will address the relationship between national security and the development of alternative transportation fuels. Other topics will include the growth in the U.S. biofuels industry, current and emerging research and development initiatives and Oklahoma’s emerging biorefining sector. Additional national presenters include: John Ferrell, U.S. Department of Energy; Duane Grant, USDA Advisory Committee on Biotechnology and 21st Century Agriculture; Richard Hess, Idaho National Laboratory; Anna Rath, Ceres, Inc.; Robert White, Ethanol Promotion and Information Council; Dr. Steven Phillips, National Renewable Energy Laboratory; Curt Rich, Van Ness Feldman; David Terry, Governors’ Ethanol Coalition and Dr. Jeffery Dahlberg, National Grain Sorghum Producers.

Registration is $45. For more information, a complete list of speakers or registration, visit http://www.growok.com/ or call 1-800-203-5494. The Oklahoma Biofuels Conference is presented by the Office of the Secretary of Energy, State of Oklahoma, in collaboration with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture and the Office of the Secretary of Environment, State of Oklahoma.

LVWOK on Re-entry

2007-10-01T13:40:00.000-07:00

Re-entry is a complex term that is defined by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections as a systematic continuum of treatment, services, and processes that are integrated into all facets of the offender’s incarceration at all levels of security. The Department of Corrections, in partnership with appropriate agencies maintains an infrastructure of offender assessment, needs identification, case planning, training, treatment, pre-release planning and effective programming to include comprehensive planning for offender transition to community to include programmatic supervision.

The primary goal of this process is the reduction of offender recidivism; achieved by providing adequate cognitive, academic, vocational, substance abuse treatment, and living skills while underscoring the philosophy the reentry process begins at the point of reception. Recidivism is defined as those offenders that are reincarcerated into the Oklahoma Department of corrections.

In March 2002, the Department of Corrections Assessment and Reception Facility at Lexington began conducting complete assessment of all offenders and developing case plans. The initial case plan is based on crime, length of sentence, physical and mental health, LSI-R score, and other objective assessment instruments. Literacy levels are tested at inception and it is expected that any inmate without a high school diploma will obtain a GED prior to discharge.

Because offenders releasing from secure facilities do not have the same opportunities to integrate as those releasing in the community, it is critical that institutional programming be based on proven theories of “what works”. Findings from hundreds of criminal justice studies indicate the programs that work have common features. Good programs target factors related to offending and that can be changed.

These dynamic factors are known as criminogenic needs. Addressing criminogenic needs (factors related of offending) show a greater correlation to reduced recidivism than much of the research on which we base social policy and medical practice. When the offender is 180 days from his/her projected release, the focus shifts from the case plan to the pre-release plan. The prerelease plan is individualized focusing on the offender’s basic needs (i.e., housing, clothing, etc.), and aftercare referrals for medical, mental health and substance abuse.

Between 600 - 700 offenders are released from custody monthly. The Department utilizes several different tracks to serve the needs of individuals transitioning from incarceration back to community as well as maintain successful outcomes for those under community supervision.

Community Corrections – Offenders eligible for community corrections status prior to release will receive reentry services at those facilities. Services include work programs, substance abuse aftercare, continuing education, transportation resources, and reestablishment of family and community ties. ¨

Transition Coordination – Offenders assessed as high risk and not eligible for community corrections are referred to a Reentry Transition Coordinator who utilizes the concept of “Wraparound”. Wraparound is a process that develops and carries out plans for offendersand their families who have very complex needs.

Diversion Program – A team of Probation Officers work closely with officials from the District Attorney and Public Defender offices and other stakeholders to focus on offenders exhibiting high risk behaviors for placement in a specialized transition plan The Oklahoma Department ofCorrections will continue to incorporate re-entry initiatives and implement programs with a primary purpose of reduction in recidivism to protect the public.

CHBS Job Description for "Contract Case Manager"

2007-09-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

Description of Duties and Responsibilities:

Provides intensive home and community based services to families participating in CHBS (Comprehensive Home-Based Services); coordinates a strengths-based family focused; child centered process of service delivery.

Maintains an open, service focused collaborative relationship with staff of the local Child Welfare Division of The Department of Human Services (DHS).

Conducts intake with family along with assigned DHS worker.

Assesses the families needs using multi-level assessment.

Has face-to-face contact with family as specified by CHBS program requirements.

Provides structured intervention services including but not limited to the following: crisis intervention, supportive counseling, parenting education, and family strengthening, and problem solving.

Serves as an advocate for the family to support the case goals; attends court hearings, providing documentation regarding progress and activities of family as requested by DHS or the court.

Assists family in accessing services from local and state agencies such as TANF, housing assistance, food stamps, medical coverage and services, educational and vocational services, mental health services, parenting skills training, substance abuse related services and domestic violence services.

Completes all relevant paperwork in a timely manner including, but not limited to progress notes and reports. (All time requirements are determined by the OCS/CHBS contract.)

Adheres to Center policy for courtroom conduct and dress code.

Qualifications for position:

Minimum educational requirement is a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or related field. Must possess a valid driver’s license and provide driving record. Must pass background clearance through the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI).

Supervisory relationships:

The Case Manager is under the direct supervision of the CHBS Case Manager Supervisor.

Skills and knowledge required:

The Case Manager has excellent client engagement and intervention skills; experience with working with families; time management skills; diligent in documentation/recording; and knowledge of community resources.

Prior experience required:

Minimum of one-year experience in social work or related field.

Personal qualities:

Willing to work a flexible schedule as necessary; sensitive, competent, and committed to working with diverse clients; committed to professional development and application of newly acquired relevant knowledge to work with clients; ability to work collaboratively with DHS; ability to work within the framework of a strengths-based family focused; child centered process of service delivery.

Amount of travel and other special conditions or requirements:

The Case Manager provides services in a variety of settings in the County including clients’ homes, at the Center, and within the community as needed. Position requires some travel to attend required trainings.

Hours per day or week:

Works a flexible 40 hour week; evening and weekend hours may be necessary.

Wine, Women, Shoes in Spotlight for Benefit

2007-09-02T16:00:00.000-07:00

From Staff Reports, The Oklahoman (see http://newsok.com/article/3114416/)

Two events that celebrate and embrace women will benefit Impact Oklahoma Inc.
Wine, Women and Shoes was started by Napa Valley vintner Elaine Honig in 2005 to honor women in the wine business and to raise money for important women's causes in a relaxed atmosphere.

The idea blossomed and this year includes events in 10 cities, including Tulsa and Oklahoma City. This is the second year for the Oklahoma City event, which kicks off Sept. 12 with Wine 101. A panel of female vintners will discuss their work, and tastings and light food will be presented from 5 to 7 p.m. at Cafe Nova. Tickets are $60.

At 6 p.m. Sept. 14, Balliet's will present a shoe fashion show. Vintners will showcase their wines, and Deep Fork Restaurant Group will provide food. Tickets are $100 for individuals or $200 for a patron, which includes preferential seating at the fashion show and an invitation to the patron party.

Models will be business leaders, Impact members and community volunteers. Honig will be in Oklahoma City for the benefit.

Impact Oklahoma strives to increase philanthropy in central Oklahoma. It was founded on a simple idea: Each woman who joined would be asked to donate $1,000. With 100 members, the organization would have $100,000 to distribute to a local nonprofit organization. In 2 ½ years, Impact Oklahoma has raised more than $500,000, and membership has grown to 242.

Tickets may still be available. For more information, call Impact Oklahoma at 579-0455.

To My Sisters

2007-08-29T16:00:00.001-07:00

I do not know who authored this but I salute her.

A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day,
drinking iced tea and visiting with her Mother. As
they talked about life, about marriage, about the
responsibilities of life and the obligations of
adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her
glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance
upon her daughter.

'Don't forget your Sisters,' she advised, swirling
the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. 'They'll
be more important as you get older. No matter how
much you love your husband, no matter how much you
love the children you may have, you are still going
to need Sisters. Remember to go places with them now
and then; do things with them.'

'Remember that 'Sisters' means ALL the women...
your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your other
women relatives too. 'You'll need other women. Women
always do.'

What a funny piece of advice!' the young woman
thought. Haven't I just gotten married?
Haven't I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a
married woman, for goodness sake! A grownup! Surely
my husband and the family we may start will be all I
need to make my life worthwhile!'

But she listened to her Mother. She kept contact
with her Sisters and made more women friends each
year. As the years tumbled by, one after another,
she gradually came to understand that her Mom really
knew what she was talking about. As time and nature
work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman,
Sisters are the mainstays of her life.

After more than 50 years of living in this world,
here is what I've learned:

THIS SAYS IT ALL:

Time passes.
Life happens.
Distance separates.
Children grow up.
Jobs come and go.
Love waxes and wanes.
Men don't do what they're supposed to do.
Hearts break.
Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors.
Careers end.
BUT.........

Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how
many miles are
between you. A girl friend is never farther away
than needing her can reach.

When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you
have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life
will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on,
praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on
your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the
valley's end.

Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk
beside you...Or come in and carry you out.

Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters,
daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers,
Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended
family, all bless our life!

The world wouldn't be the same without women, and
neither would I. When we began this adventure called
womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or
sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we
would need each other.

The Journal Record's 2007 Women Making A Difference

2007-08-27T14:51:00.000-07:00

2007 Journal Record honorees:

* Lt. Gov. Jari Askins, State of Oklahoma, Duncan.
* Robin Ballenger, Flintco Companies Inc., Tulsa.
* Gayle Barrett, Crowe & Dunlevy, Oklahoma City.
* Cindy Batt, Arvest Bank, Oklahoma City.
* Christy Blair, East Main Place Homeless Shelter, Norman.
* Dee Blose, Youth and Family Services Inc., El Reno.
* Laura Boyd, Policy & Performance Consultants Inc., Norman.
* Burger, Chesapeake Energy Corp., Oklahoma City.
* Valerie Couch, U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City.
* Erin Donovan, Erin Donovan, Attorney at Law, Tulsa.
* Douglas, SpiritBank, Edmond.
* Marnie Ducato, Rex Public Relations, Tulsa.
* Linda Dzialo, Lawton Public Schools, Lawton.
* Robyn Elliott, Chickasaw Nation, Ada.
* Mary Fallin, U.S. House of Representatives, Oklahoma City.
* Mikki Farris, Infant Crisis Services Inc., Oklahoma City.
* Celine Ferguson, Coppermark Bank, Oklahoma City.
* Michelle Finch-Walker, Oklahoma Forest Heritage Center, Broken Bow.
* Beverley Greenwood-Van Meerveld, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City.
* Victoria Guilfoil, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Services, Veterinary Services, Yale.
* Hall, OU College of Medicine, Oklahoma City.
* Betty Harris, University of Oklahoma, Norman.
* Susan Harris, Tulsa Metro Chamber, Tulsa.
* Debbie Harrison, Russell-Murray Hospice, El Reno.
* Anne Holzberlein, University of Central Oklahoma Foundation, Edmond.
* Ann Hoover, Hoover Protocol & Etiquette Centre, Oklahoma City.
* Yvonne Hovell, East Tulsa Dodge, Tulsa.
* Sherry Howell, Howell and Associates, Oklahoma City.
* Sherrel Jones, Just Delicious!/Elmstead Farm, Enid.
* Carole Kenner, OUHSC College of Nursing, Oklahoma City.
* Lou Kerr, The Kerr Foundation, Oklahoma City.
* Sandi Liles, Mutual of Omaha, Woodward.
* Roxanna Lorton, community volunteer, Tulsa.
* Melanie Macdonald, World Neighbors, Oklahoma City.
* Jan Moss, Center for Interdisciplinary Learning & Leadership, OUHSC, Oklahoma City.
* Nance, Oklahoma Heritage Association, Oklahoma City.
* Norma Noble, Oklahoma Department of Commerce, Oklahoma City.
* Catherine O'Connor, The City of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma City.
* Kim Owen, QuikTrip Corp., Tulsa.
* Ann Owens, Eastern Oklahoma State College Foundation, Wilburton.
* Mary Blankenship Pointer, UMB Bank, Oklahoma City.
* Edie Roodman, Jewish Federation of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma City.
* Avis Scaramucci, Nonna's Euro-American Ristorante & Bar and Painted Door, Oklahoma City.
* Suzann Stewart, Tulsa Convention and Visitors Bureau, Tulsa.
* Penny Voss, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Oklahoma City.
* Kathy Walbert Walker, City of Nichols Hills, Nichols Hills.
* Jackye Ward, Valley View Regional Hospital, Ada.
* Terri White, Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Oklahoma City.
* Lauren White, Oklahoma League for the Blind, Oklahoma City.
* Gail Wynne, Carlisle Collection, Enid.

Last Fall's Task Force to Stop Sexual Violence

2007-08-27T09:45:00.000-07:00

Last Fall’s Task Force to Stop Sexual Violence

Last fall a legislative “Task Force to Stop Sexual Violence” met to consider how to reduce violence against women. The Task Force was chaired by Rep. Pam Peterson, a member of the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women. Below are some of the ideas and recommendations that came out of that study.

Funding is needed to provide uniform services to sexual violence victims across the state including: (1) a safe place for a physical exam; (2) a SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) nurse; (3) an advocate to help them through the process; (4) education for police and community officials that such services exist, so those organizations can refer victims to services; (5) recognition of the difference in counseling needs for domestic violence and sexual violence victims.

It would be helpful to have statewide standards for SANE nurse training. In order to encourage hospitals to participate in SANE programs, and to allow nurses to be trained as SANE nurses, these provisions could be included in the requirements for hospital certification.

The State might provide funding for each certified service provider to have access to a SANE nurse and appropriate equipment, examination room, etc.

Oklahoma needs a state coordinator for the recruiting, education, disbursement of SANE nurses and some sort of state authority for certification process. Perhaps this should be within the Oklahoma Nurses Association.

The compensation for SANE nurses might need to be increased. Oklahoma needs a consistent payment mechanism and a way for SANE nurses to get paid for on-call status.

SANE programs might be coordinated through county health departments by allowing SANE nurses to volunteer through county health departments. County health departments may have resources such as specialized equipment not used by hospitals, as well as administrative and training resources.

It would be good if there was funding or incentives for specialized SANE examination instruments and equipment to be located in each county, where it is currently lacking, and train nurses in the use of the equipment.

Hospitals might be encouraged to institute credential programs, allowing on call community-based SANE nurses to perform exams in the hospital as necessary.

A statewide SANE coordinating office should include funding for dedicated coordination (scheduling, protocol), didactic training (coursework); clinical training; peer review. This office could require a SANE nurse in every county, credentialed in the area hospitals.

Hospitals can be encouraged to support SANE programs, training, access, exams and equipment access through legislation tying medical participation to Medicare/Medicaid state funding. A Texas statute requires hospitals to provide services to sexual assault patients or transfer them to institutions with those services.

Oklahoma would benefit by expanded training for first responding officers in talking to victims, particularly training which puts the officer in the victim’s shoes. Some training is already available through the Police Academy.

More funding is needed to allow DNA testing for all convicted felons, not just sex offenders, to go into the state and nationwide DNA data banks.

More funding is also needed for DNA laboratories statewide, to reduce the backlog of cases and allow them to more quickly process DNA evidence.

As a way to reduce sexual violence, the Task Force recommended education in healthy relationships for boys and girls beginning in middle school through college. We also recommended community education in recognizing, confronting and stopping sexual violence in communities.

Elder Economic Security Initiative™ Field Organizer Position

2007-08-17T15:37:00.000-07:00

Elder Economic Security Initiative™ Field Organizer

Overview:

Wider Opportunities for Women (WOW) is a 43 year-old women’s employment organization that works nationally and in its home community of Washington, D.C. to achieve economic independence and equality of opportunity for women and girls at all stages of life. Recently, WOW has launched the national Elder Economic Security Initiative™ program, a conceptual framework that includes concrete tools to shape public policies and programs to promote the economic well being of older adults, whether or not they have the capacity to be fully self-reliant or are in need of certain public supports to age in place with dignity. The Elder Economic Security Initiative™ (EESI™) program combines coalition building, research, education, and advocacy at the community, state, and national level. WOW will partner with 20 states over the next five years to implement the EESI™ program on the national, state, and local level.

Undergirding the EESI™ program is the WOW-GI National Elder Economic Security Standard™ index developed by the Gerontology Institute at the University of Massachusetts Boston (UMASS) and WOW. The Elder Economic Security Standard™ (Elder Standard™) index is a new measure of the income that older adults require to maintain their independence in the community and meet their daily costs of living, including affordable and appropriate housing and health care. The Elder Standard™ index is calibrated to household size, geographic area, and life circumstances. The development and use of state specific Elder Standard™ indexes promote a measure of income that respects the autonomy goals of older adults, rather than a measure of what we all struggle to avoid – abject poverty.

EESI™ Field Organizer Role:

The EESI™ Field Organizer will provide support to the EESI™ program staff and EESI™ state partners around the country on national and state policy and advocacy initiatives.

Reporting:

The EESI™ Field Organizer is an employee of Wider Opportunities for Women and reports to the EESI™ Director. The EESI™ Field Organizer will be a member of the EESI ™ team and the National Programs and Policy team at WOW.

Specific Responsibilities include:

Identifying and building relationships with new state-level organizations to develop and implement the EESI™ program, including the development of a statewide EESI™ policy agenda which complements the national agenda and the Elder Standard™ index;
Providing technical assistance both on-site, via the internet and by telephone to State Lead Organizations and statewide coalition members related to developing, releasing and institutionalizing the statewide EESI™ policy agenda and the Elder Standard™ index;
Determine effective mechanisms to compile materials documenting State Lead Organization and statewide coalition members experiences with the implementation of a statewide EESI™ policy agenda and the Elder Standard™ index;
Maintaining ongoing contact with the State Lead Organization and statewide coalition members to provide content for WOW’s website and the EESI™ newsletter;
Developing and implementing training materials for the field;
Facilitating meetings of State Lead Organizations and statewide coalition members;
Conducting regular evaluations and surveys of the State Lead Organization and statewide coalition members’ capacity to launch and maintain the EESI™ program in the state;
Creating templates for educational and outreach materials and communication pieces
Participating in EESI™ program team meetings and activities;
Participating in WOW National Program and Policy team meetings and activities;
Contributing to the development of WOW’s intergenerational public policy agenda; and
Other duties within the EESI™ program and, where applicable, overall national programs as needed.

Qualifications:

The EESI™ Field Organizer should be committed to the issues of guaranteeing economic security for women in their retirement years and should feel comfortable working with a diverse group of professionals.

Additional qualifications include:

Undergraduate degree;
Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
Ability to work independently;
Familiarity with public policies affecting the aging population and low-income women (preferred);
Strong training/facilitation/interpersonal skills;
Previous experience as organizer or field worker (preferred);
The ability to communicate complex information clearly in writing and in oral presentations to a range of audiences;
A willingness to travel;
Experience in and sensitivity to working in multicultural settings;
Organizational skills; and
Computer skills (Microsoft Office, including Excel and Publisher).

WOW offers excellent benefits. Compensation for this position will be in the mid $30,000s depending upon the qualifications of the successful candidate. Qualified applicants for this position should send a cover letter and resume by September 15, 2007 by mail to Vivian Staples at WOW at 1001 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 930, Washington, DC 20036, by fax to (202) 464-1660 or by email to vstaples@wowonline.org. Only applications with a cover letter will be accepted.

WOW is an equal opportunity employer. Women and minorities are especially encouraged to apply.

WOW's Elder Security Initiative Program Assistant Positon

2007-08-17T15:34:00.000-07:00

Elder Economic Security Initiative™ Program Assistant

Overview:

Wider Opportunities for Women (WOW) is a 43 year-old women’s employment organization that works nationally and in its home community of Washington, D.C. to achieve economic independence and equality of opportunity for women and girls at all stages of life. Recently, WOW has launched the national Elder Economic Security Initiative™ program, a conceptual framework that includes concrete tools to shape public policies and programs to promote the economic well being of older adults, whether or not they have the capacity to be fully self-reliant or are in need of certain public supports to age in place with dignity. The Elder Economic Security Initiative™ (EESI™) program combines coalition building, research, education, and advocacy at the community, state, and national level. WOW will partner with 20 states over the next five years to implement the EESI™ program on the national, state, and local level.

Undergirding the EESI™ program is the WOW-GI National Elder Economic Security Standard™ index developed by the Gerontology Institute at the University of Massachusetts Boston (UMASS) and WOW. The Elder Economic Security Standard™ (Elder Standard™) index is a new measure of the income that older adults require to maintain their independence in the community and meet their daily costs of living, including affordable and appropriate housing and health care. The Elder Standard™ index is calibrated to household size, geographic area, and life circumstances. The development and use of state specific Elder Standard™ indexes promote a measure of income that respects the autonomy goals of older adults, rather than a measure of what we all struggle to avoid – abject poverty.

EESI™ Program Assistant Role:

The Program Assistant will provide support to the EESI™ program staff and EESI™ state partners around the country on national and state policy and advocacy initiatives.

Reporting:

The Program Assistant is an employee of Wider Opportunities for Women and reports to the EESI™ Director. The Program Assistant will be a member of the EESI ™ team and the National Programs and Policy team at WOW.

Specific Responsibilities include:

· Providing administrative support to the EESI™ program including, but not limited to: formatting text and data; handling the logistics of monthly and quarterly conference calls; securing travel arrangements for staff; supporting meetings; collecting and archiving program records; drafting agendas; assisting with grant reports; compiling research, as needed, on federal policy with an emphasis on retirement security, aging, women, and low-income issues; etc.;
· Providing administrative support to the EESI™ Director;
· Regularly updating and maintaining content of WOW’s website including the EESI™ program page and the Elder Standard™ index database;
· Organizing, displaying, and formatting data in graphs, summary tables, charts, and printouts that are easily understood by various audiences such as researchers, policy makers, grassroots organizations, and elders;
· Attending selected meetings addressing federal policy and advocacy issues;
· Providing administrative support to the National Programs and Policy staff as needed;
· Participating in EESI™ program team meetings and activities; and
· Participating in WOW National Program and Policy team meetings and activities.

Qualifications:

The Program Assistant should be committed to the issues of guaranteeing economic security for women in their retirement years and should feel comfortable working with a diverse group of professionals.

Additional qualifications include:

Undergraduate degree;
Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
Ability to work independently;
Basic familiarity with issues affecting the aging population and low-income women (preferred);
Familiarity with back-end database and web application development processes;
Experience in and sensitivity to working in multicultural settings;
Organizational skills; and
Computer skills (Microsoft Office, including Excel and Publisher).

WOW offers excellent benefits. Compensation for this position will be in the low $30,000s depending upon the qualifications of the successful candidate. Qualified applicants for this position should send a cover letter and resume by September 15, 2007 by mail to Vivian Staples at WOW at 1001 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 930, Washington, DC 20036, by fax to (202) 464-1660 or by email to vstaples@wowonline.org. Only applications with a cover letter will be accepted.

WOW is an equal opportunity employer. Women and minorities are especially encouraged to apply.

Young Lawyers for Obama

2007-08-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

Young Lawyers for Obama
Report - July 10, 2007

Since its launch in March 2007, Young Lawyers for Obama (YLFO) has raised over $108,000 and recruited over 1,300 members nationwide. YLFO currently has a presence in over 25 cities and states across the country.

Our Coordinators/Chapters & Our System: Since March, we have recruited coordinators to start chapters in the following cities and states: Atlanta, GA; Baton Rouge, LA; Chicago, IL; Dallas, TX; Denver, CO; Kansas City, MO; Kentucky; Los Angeles, CA; Maryland; Miami, FL; Michigan; Milwaukee, WI; Minnesota; New Jersey; New York, NY; Northern Virginia; Philadelphia, PA; Phoenix, AZ; Pittsburgh, PA; Portland, OR; Seattle, WA; Shreveport, LA; South Dakota; St. Louis, MO; Washington, DC; and West Virginia. Once we recruit coordinators, we send them our Chapter Start-Up Guide, connect them with the finance and now field staff in their area, and provide them with a web page on our web site (www.younglawyersforobama.org) on which they can publicize their events. To ensure we are producing for the campaign, we have developed a set of benchmarks of success for each chapter—including (1) the amount of money raised and (2) the number of lawyers organized—and we hold biweekly conference calls and ask chapter coordinators to submit biweekly reports to discuss our progress in these areas.

Fundraising Highlights: Our focus has been fundraising. Our strategy mainly has been to work with finance staff to identify upcoming campaign fundraisers and to recruit attendees. Some of the finance staff have found our work so helpful that they have begun recruiting coordinators themselves to start up chapters; in addition, Finance Manager Mackey Dykes and some other staff have asked to sit in on our calls. As of early July, here are the amounts our most active YLFO chapters have raised (through their members and coordinators):

Washington, DC Chapter $50,050
New York Chapter $27,300
Maryland Chapter $12,000
Minnesota Chapter $8,250
Philadelphia Chapter $5,000
Atlanta Chapter $4,250

Assisting Legal, Field, & Policy Staff, and in the Early States: In addition to fundraising, we also have been assisting the campaign in other ways. We helped recruit attorneys to assist Jeff Berman, the National Director of Delegate Operations, and his legal staff in researching state-based ballot access and delegate selection statutes and rules, and we will be helping on the ground with the petitioning, caucus, and early voting processes in a variety of states. In addition, we are now starting to connect our chapters with regional field staff to assist with field work more generally. In terms of policy, we have begun plugging our most active members with policy backgrounds into the policy committees. We also have developed a program targeted just at the 4 early primary and caucus states, and have begun working with staff in Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina (and will be doing so shortly in Nevada), to organize young lawyers there. In addition, from raising money for Generation Barack Obama events in major cities (including Chicago, New York City, and Washington, DC), to helping staff to build the Obama committee in states where there had not yet been an organization (in West Virginia, for example), our coordinators have worked to address the campaign’s needs in their specific city or state.

Our Relationship with Generation Obama & Lawyers for Obama: Given the network we have developed in the past few months, we are now helping the campaign identify individuals who are interested in starting up broader Generation Obama young professional groups in their cities. In addition, we also have recently connected with David Jacobson, the National Deputy Finance Chair of the campaign, and will be working with him on a broader Lawyers for Obama effort.

Hearing more: If you have any questions, or would like to join our coordinators’ list-serve and/or our biweekly calls, contact David Burd at davidsburd@gmail.com or 914-552-3660.

Groups Who Have Signed the Letter

2007-06-04T15:02:00.001-07:00

Oklahoma Nurses Association
Oklahoma Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers
American Public Health Association
American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence
American College of Nurse-Midwives
American Society of Addiction Medicine
Association of Reproductive Health Professionals
Center for Gender and Justice
Doctors of the World, USA
Group for Chronic Addiction Research
Hygeia Foundation for Perinatal Loss and Bereavement, Inc.
Institute for Health and Recovery
International Center for Advancement of Addiction Treatment
National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women's Health
National Coalition of Child Protection Reform
National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence
National Institute for Reproductive Health
National Stillbirth Society
National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health
National Perinatal Association
National Women's Health Network
Our Bodies Ourselves
The Rebecca Project for Human Rights
Society of General Internal Medicine

and many individuals including MD's, RN's, social workers, public health professionals and concerned citizens.

Signature Authorization: Print, Sign & FAX

2007-06-04T14:42:00.000-07:00

Signature Authorization for Oklahoma Letter

If you would like to sign on to this open letter please fill out the form below and fax it to NAPW at 212 255-9253 ASAP.

By my signature below, I grant the National Advocates for Pregnant Women and the Drug Policy Alliance permission to add my signature to the Oklahoma open letter objecting to the misapplication of child abuse, state murder and/or homicide laws to pregnant women who attempt to continue their pregnancies to term in spite of a drug, alcohol or other health problems. I authorize NAPW and DPA to make small, non-substantive adjustments to the letter in response to feedback from individuals and organizations that agree to sign on.
___________________________________________________

Print Name (First Last) and Title (as it will appear if signing as an individual)

___________________________________________________

Organization

___ I am signing as an individual

___ Organization for identification purposes only

____________________________________________________________

___ I am signing on behalf of my organization, you may list the organization on the open letter

___ I am signing as both an individual and on behalf of my organization, you can use both names in the open letter

____________________________________________________________

Organizational/Individual Contact information:

____________________________________________________________

Street City State Zip

____________________________________________________________

Email Address Phones) Fax

________________________________________________
Your Signature and Date Signed

Letter to Oklahoma County District Attorney David Prater

2007-06-04T14:36:00.000-07:00

Oklahoma Letter

Oklahoma County District Attorney
Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office
320 Robert S. Kerr Ste. 505
Oklahoma City, OK 73102

Dear Oklahoma County District Attorney:

As physicians, health care professionals, medical ethicists, midwives, child-welfare advocates, public health advocates, researchers, and as members of the community, we are greatly concerned about the arrest and prosecution of Theresa Lee Hernandez for first degree murder based on the fact that she suffered a stillbirth at 32 weeks of pregnancy. This unprecedented charge is based on the highly questionable medical claim that the pregnancy loss can be attributed to Ms. Hernandez’ drug use during pregnancy.

While we do not in any way condone a person’s use of alcohol, cigarettes, or other drugs that might affect pregnancy outcome or a person’s ability to parent, our commitment to the care of pregnant women and their children, as well as the interests of society as a whole, requires us to speak out against dangerous and counterproductive measures such as the arrest of pregnant women and new mothers as murderers subject to life imprisonment.

As every leading medical organization to address this issue has concluded, including the American Medical Association, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American College of Nurse Midwives, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Psychiatric Association, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the March of Dimes, the problem of alcohol and drug use during pregnancy is a health issue best addressed through education and community-based treatment, not through the criminal justice system.

Drug dependency is a medical condition - not a crime. Pregnant women do not experience alcoholism and other drug dependencies because they want to harm their fetuses or because they don’t care about their children.

Like other chronic medical conditions, drug dependency can be controlled and overcome through medical treatment. Medical knowledge about addiction and dependency treatment demonstrates that the majority of dependent people do not, and cannot, simply stop their drug use as a result of threats of arrest or other negative consequences. In fact, threat-based approaches do not protect children. They have been shown to deter pregnant and parenting women not from using drugs, but from seeking prenatal care and drug and alcohol treatment.

Health risks to women, fetuses, and children whether from poverty, inadequate nutrition, exposure to alcohol, drugs, or other factors can be mitigated through prenatal care, counseling, and continued medical supervision. For this to be effective, however, the patient must trust her health care provider to safeguard her confidences and stand by her while she attempts to improve her health (even when those efforts are not always successful). Converting the physician’s exam room into an interrogation chamber and turning health care professionals into agents of law enforcement destroys this trust.

Unfortunately many women in Oklahoma find it difficult to obtain the help they need to overcome their alcohol and drug dependency problems. In fact, according to the federal government’s drug treatment facility locator there are no residential treatment programs designed to meet the needs of pregnant and parenting women – or even women in general -- within 100 miles of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Arresting people with drug related problems not only deters them from seeking help – it is likely to deter others from offering compassion and providing the resources necessary to develop and fund the kinds of treatment that we know can help pregnant women and their families.

Moreover, miscarriages and stillbirths are not an uncommon outcome of pregnancy. Between 1998 and 2002 women and families experienced more than 1,500 stillbirths in Oklahoma. Women who become pregnant should not risk criminal prosecutions for murder should they suffer such a loss. Medically, it is still in many instances impossible to identify the cause of a stillbirth. Subjecting a woman and her family to criminal investigation after experiencing such a loss undermines the provision of health care and the process of recovery for both women and their families.

We therefore ask you, in the interests of maternal, fetal, and child health to drop this dangerous and counter-productive prosecution.

Signed,

This Blog's Policy on Comments

2007-04-17T12:08:00.000-07:00

What you can do: You can share your views with other members of the community and engage in respectful dialogue about the issues.

What you cannot do: You cannot post hate speech, profanity, abusive language, personal attacks, comments that are disruptive to the community, sexually explicit material, depictions of graphic violence, threats, comments that could be construed as threats, comments intended to incite violence, personal contact information, copyrighted material, or material that otherwise violates either the law or general decency.

Comment review policy: All comments are reviewed before being publicly posted on the blog. Moderators will strictly enforce the above guidelines. Comments that violate these guidelines will be deleted. We reserve the right to ban members who violate these guidelines. There may be a time delay between the submission of a comment and its appearance on the blog. These guidelines may be changed at any time.

NOTE: Above are the (only ever so slightly modified) conditions for commenting that you will find on Hillary Clinton's blog. I like them. Be hateful or just comment to start an argument and your comment will never make it onto this blog. Leave a comment that informs and/or presents a different perspective and your comment will get "published." Sorry; the goals of my blog do not include generating ugly or hateful discourse.

SB 714

2007-04-11T09:36:00.000-07:00

This bill was originally intended to restrict the use of state funding for abortions.

But the House of Representatives added numerous amendments to the original bill including no exceptions for congenitally abnormal fetus or for medical conditions of the mother which could worsen with continuing pregnancy: i.e. marfans syndrome (aortic rupture); diabetes (loss of eyes or kidneys); lupus (loss of kidneys).

And the bill restricts patient-doctor communication which compromises both our physicians and poor, Medicaid funded, patients who seek (and certainly deserve quality) medical care at public clinics and facilities like the OU Health Sciences Center.

Most state health department clinics and public health clinic systems -- which were developed to give prenatal care to the poor -- would have no ability to screen for congenital anomalies or to offer the usual medical care to improve the chances of women having good outcomes.

All other things being equal, Oklahoma’s laws should work to improve – not restrict -- quality medical treatment for Oklahoma’s poorest citizens. SB 714, as currently constructed, seems to work against that goal.

Take Action Against Don Imus and Mark McGuirk

2007-04-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

YWCA Statement April 10, 2007

For nearly 150 years, the YWCA mission has been eliminating racism and empowering women. Thus, the YWCA condemns the reprehensible language of shock jock Don Imus and producer Bernard McGuirk in reference to the African American women of the Rutgers championship basketball team. Such words are antithetical to the YWCA core and a direct affront to the millions of women we represent across the nation and around the world. Their remarks represent two halves of a double-edged sword, racism and sexism. It was undeniably hate speech. Such open and public degradation of any segment within the Black community is outrageous, obscene and perverse under any circumstances. The fact that the statement was made about young, college educated African American women, who have obviously excelled academically and athletically, is indicative of how narrow the boundary is between racism and sexism. Essentially, no woman of color is immune to being such a target, no matter how accomplished.

Imus attempted to justify his use of such language because of similar concepts and language used in Spike Lee movies and by Rap music artists. But, he seems to have missed the point that what was said should not have been said at all. Racist and sexist language used by anyone is unacceptable, but such language coming from a White man has additional historical overlays that make it even more disparaging.

In his attempted apology, Imus claimed that what he said was not intended with malice and blamed the statement on an attempt at humor. "Here's what I've learned," Imus said. "That you can't make fun of everybody, because some people don't deserve it."

Here is what Imus should have learned -

Comments, like "hard core hos" and "nappy-haired hos," that degrade women and people of color will never be funny.
The meaning of a message will often change depending on the messenger.
People around the country will not tolerate racist and sexist language.
Allowing people like Imus to fill our airwaves with racism and sexism is intolerable. But, despite his long history of making racist and sexist comments, Imus has been allowed to unabashedly perpetuate hate, broadcasting to millions through more than 70 stations around the country. This most recent incident has resulted in only a two week suspension of Imus' show by CBS Radio which owns the station that produces his show and MSNBC which airs and promotes the show. We have yet to hear much about McGuirk, who should be equally implicated in this incident.

YWCA calls upon everyone who is serious about eliminating racism and sexism to draw the line and not allow this incident to occur unchecked. To send a letter to WFAN Radio, which produces the show, CBS Radio and MSNBC to implore them to terminate Imus and McGuirk and their racist and sexist rhetoric from the airwaves, click here.

Lorraine Cole, Ph.D., CEO, YWCA USA

US Census Data on Women

2007-02-28T15:35:00.001-08:00

Facts for Features: Women's History Month: March 2007

WASHINGTON, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- National Women's History
Month's roots go back to March 8, 1857, when women from New York City
factories staged a protest over working conditions. International Women's
Day was first observed in 1909, but it wasn't until 1981 that Congress
established National Women's History Week during the second week of March.
In 1987, Congress expanded the week to a month. Every year since, Congress
has passed a resolution for Women's History Month, and the president has
issued a proclamation.
152 million
The number of females in the United States as of Nov. 1, 2006. That
exceeds the number of males (148 million).
http://www.census.gov/popest/national/asrh/2005_nat_res.html
As of July 1, 2005, males outnumbered females in every five-year age
group through the 35 to 39 age group. Starting with the 40 to 44 age group,
women outnumbered men. At 85 and over, there were more than twice as many
women as men. http://www.census.gov/popest/national/asrh/NC-EST2005-sa.html
Motherhood

82.5 million
Estimated number of mothers of all ages in the United States. (From
unpublished data.)
1.9
Average number of children that women 40 to 44 had given birth to as of
2004, down from 3.1 children in 1976, the year the Census Bureau began
collecting such data. Likewise, the percentage of women in this age group who
were mothers was 81 percent in 2004, down from
90 percent in 1976.
http://www.census.gov/population/www/socdemo/fertility.html

Earnings

$32,168
The median annual earnings of women 16 or older who worked year-round,
full time, in 2005. Women earned 77 cents for every $1 earned by men.
(Source: American Community Survey at
http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/income_wealth/007419.htm
l )
91 cents
The amount women in the District of Columbia, who worked year-round,
full time, earned for every $1 their male counterparts earned in 2005.
Among all states or state equivalents, the district was where women were
closest to earnings parity with men. Maryland and Connecticut were the only
states where
median earnings for women were above $40,000, as was the District of
Columbia. (Source: American Community Survey at
http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/income_wealth/007419.htm
l )
$58,906
Median earnings of women working in computer and mathematical jobs, the
highest for women among the 22 major occupational groups. Among these
groups, community and social services was the only group where women's
earnings as a percentage of men's earnings were higher than 90 percent.
(Source: American Community Survey at
http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/income_wealth/007419.htm
l )
Education

32%
Percent of women 25 to 29 who had attained a bachelor's degree or
higher in 2005, which exceeded that of men in this age range (25 percent).
Eighty- seven percent of women and 85 percent of men in this same age range
had completed high school.
http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/education/007660.html
85.4%
Percent of women 25 or older who had completed high school as of 2005.
High school graduation rates for women continued to exceed those of men
(84.9 percent).
http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/education/007660.html
26.1 million
Number of women 25 or older with a bachelor's degree or more education
in 2005, more than double the number 20 years earlier.
http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/education/007660.html
27%
Percent of women 25 or older who had obtained a bachelor's degree as of
2005. This rate was up 10.5 percentage points from 20 years earlier.
http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/education/007660.html
870,000
The projected number of bachelor's degrees that will be awarded to
women in the 2006-07 school year. Women also are projected to earn 369,000
master's degrees during this period. Women would, therefore, earn 58
percent of the bachelor's and 61 percent of the master's degrees awarded
during this school year. (Source: National Center for Education Statistics,
Projections of Education Statistics to 2015, at
http://nces.ed.gov/pubsearch/pubsinfo.asp?pubid=2006084 )
Businesses

More than $939 billion
Revenue for women-owned businesses in 2002, up 15 percent from 1997.
There were 116,985 women-owned firms with receipts of $1 million or more.
Nearly 6.5 million
The number of women-owned businesses in 2002, up 20 percent from 1997.
(The increase was twice the national average for all businesses.) Women
owned 28 percent of all non-farm businesses.
More than 7.1 million
Number of people employed by women-owned businesses. There were 7,231
women-owned firms with 100 or more employees, generating $274 billion in
gross receipts.
-- Nearly one in three women-owned firms operated in health care and
social assistance, and other services such as personal services, and
repair and maintenance. Women owned 72 percent of social assistance
businesses and just over half of nursing and residential care
facilities. Wholesale and retail trade accounted for 38.2 percent of
women-owned business revenue.

43%
Rate of growth in the number of women-owned firms in Nevada between
1997 and 2002, which led the nation. Georgia (35 percent), Florida (29
percent) and New York (28 percent) followed.
Source for the statements in this section:
http://www.census.gov/prod/ec02/sb0200cswmnt.pdf
http://www.census.gov/prod/ec02/sb0200cscosumt.pdf

Voting

65%
Percentage of women citizens who reported voting in the 2004
presidential election, higher than the 62 percent of their male
counterparts who cast a ballot.
http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/voting/004986.htm
l
Jobs

59%
Percent of women 16 or older who participated in the labor force in
2005. This amounted to 69.3 million women. More than 35 million women in
2005 had worked year-round, full time, in the past 12 months. Men in this
age range had a participation rate of 73 percent. (Sources:
http://www.bls.gov/cps/cpsaat2.pdf and 2005 American Community Survey via
American FactFinder.)
37%
Percent of women 16 or older who work in management, professional and
related occupations, compared with 31 percent of men. (Source: 2005
American Community Survey via American FactFinder)
21.1 million
Number of female workers in educational services, health care and
social assistance industries. More women work in this industry group than
in any other. Within this industry group, 10.7 million work in the health
care industry and 8 million in educational services. (Source: 2005 American
Community Survey via American FactFinder)
Military

203,000
Total number of active duty women in the military, as of Sept. 30,
2005. Of that total, 35,000 women were officers, and 168,000 were enlisted.
(Source: Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2007, Table 500.)
15%
Proportion of members of the armed forces who were women, as of Sept.
30, 2005. In 1950, women comprised less than 2 percent. (Source:
Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2007, Table 500.)
1.7 million
The number of military veterans who are women. (Source: Statistical
Abstract of the United States: 2007, Table 508.)
Marriage

63 million
Number of married women (including those who are separated or have an
absent spouse) in 2005. There are 55 million unmarried (widowed, divorced
or never married) women. (Source: 2005 American Community Survey via
American FactFinder)
17%
Percentage of married couples in which the wife earns at least $5,000 more
than the husband in 2005. Among 22 percent of married couples, the wife has
more education than the husband.
http://www.census.gov/Press-
Release/www/releases/archives/families_households/006840.html
5.6 million
Number of stay-at-home mothers nationwide in 2005, up from 4.4 million
a decade earlier. http://www.census.gov/population/socdemo/hh-fam/shp1.pdf
Computers

84%
Proportion of women who used a computer at home in 2003, 2 percentage
points higher than the corresponding proportion for men. This reverses the
computer use "gender gap" exhibited during the 1980s and 1990s.
http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/miscellaneous/005863.htm
l
Sports and Recreation

2.9 million
Number of girls who participated in high school athletic programs in
the 2004-05 school year. In the 1973-74 school year, only 1.3 million girls
were members of a high school athletic team. (Source: Statistical Abstract
of the United States: 2007, Table 1232.)
166,728
Number of women who participated in an NCAA sport in 2004-05. (Source:
Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2007, Table 1234.)
85%
Among those who purchased aerobic shoes in 2004, the proportion who
were women. Women also comprised a majority (64 percent) of those who
bought walking shoes. (Source: Statistical Abstract of the United States:
2007, Table 1237.)
57%
Percentage of women who participated in gardening at least once in the
past 12 months, compared with 37 percent of men. Women were also much more
likely than men to have done charity work (32 percent versus 26 percent),
attended arts and crafts fairs (39 percent versus 27 percent) and read
literature (55 percent versus 38 percent). (Source: Statistical Abstract of
the United States: 2007, Tables 1221, 1222 and 1223.)
Following is a list of observances typically covered by the Census
Bureau's Facts for Features series:
African-American History Month (February)
Valentine's Day (Feb. 14)
Women's History Month (March)
Irish-American Heritage Month (March)/St. Patrick's Day (March 17)
Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month (May)
Older Americans Month (May)
Mother's Day (May 13)
Father's Day (June 17)
The Fourth of July (July 4)
Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act (July 26)
Back to School (August)
Labor Day (Sept. 3)
Grandparents Day (Sept. 9)
Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15)
Halloween (Oct. 31)
American Indian/Alaska Native Heritage Month (November)
Veterans Day (Nov. 11)
Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 22)
The Holiday Season (December)
Editor's note: The preceding data were collected from a variety of
sources and may be subject to sampling variability and other sources of
error. Questions or comments should be directed to the Census Bureau's
Public Information Office: telephone: 301-763-3030; fax: 301-763-3762; or
e-mail: pio@census.gov.

s.server=server() s.channel="News Release" s.pageName="Facts for Features: Women's History Month: March 2007" s.prop2="104" s.prop3="02-22-2007" s.prop4="" s.prop5="" /************* DO NOT ALTER ANYTHING BELOW THIS LINE ! **************/ var s_code=s.t();if(s_code)document.write(s_code); //-->

SOURCE Bureau of the Census

Related links:

http://www.census.gov

US Census Data on Women

2007-02-28T15:35:00.000-08:00

Facts for Features: Women's History Month: March 2007

Earnings

Voting

SOURCE Bureau of the Census

Related links:

http://www.census.gov

"Shatter The Silence" T-shirt order form

2007-02-20T20:32:00.000-08:00

OCADVSA will be ordering T-shirts for the "Take Back the Night Oklahoma" rally and march to be held at the Capitol on Sunday, April 1, 2007.

The shirts are $10.00 each, will be grey in color with the following: "Shatter the Silence" quote on the front and the Take Back the Night logo on the back.

If you would like to pre-order a shirt, please fill out this order form and return with payment to OCADVSA, 3815 N. Santa Fe Ave., #124, Oklahoma City, OK 73118 by Feb. 23, 2007. Questions, contact Jennifer at 405-524-0700, ext. 16 or by email to jennifer@ocadvsa.org.

Name: ______________________________________________________________

Agency: _____________________________________________________________

Phone Number: _______________________________________________________

Email: ______________________________________________________________

Who/where did you receive this order form:____________________________________

􀀀 $10.00 per shirt, payment must be included with order.

Please indicate desired quantity and size:

Adult Sizes:
____ Small ____ Medium ____ Large ____ XLarge
____ 2XLarge ____ 3XLarge ____ 4Xlarge ____ 5XLarge

Children Sizes:
____ Small ____ Medium ____ Large

Return with payment to:

OCADVSA
3815 N. Santa Fe Ave., #124
Oklahoma City, OK 73118

T-shirts may be picked up at the above address March 29 & 30 or the day of the event at the Capitol.

Nine to be Inducted into Oklahoma Women's Hall of Fame in 2007

2007-01-28T13:52:00.000-08:00

Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women
“To improve the quality of life for women, children, and families in Oklahoma.”

2101 N. Lincoln Boulevard, Oklahoma City, OK 73105
405.522.6897 www.opm.ok.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information contact:
Dr. Jennifer Paustenbaugh, Chair
405.744.9778
jennifer.paustenbaugh@okstate.edu

NINE OKLAHOMA WOMEN TO BE INDUCTED INTO OKLAHOMA WOMEN’S HALL OF FAME

The Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women will honor the nine newest inductees into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame at ceremonies at the State Capitol on March 29. The program will begin at 4:00 p.m. followed by a celebratory reception in the Capitol Rotunda.

The inductees are Sherri Coale (Norman); Ginny Creveling (Tulsa); Dr. Joe Anna Hibler (Weatherford); Maxine Horner (Tulsa); Dr. Kay Martin (Oklahoma City); Terry Neese (Oklahoma City); Dr. Carolyn Taylor (Claremore); and Della Warrior (Red Rock and Santa Fe, NM). Claudia Tarrington of Tulsa will be inducted posthumously.

Sherri Coale is in her eleventh season as Women’s Basketball Coach at the University of Oklahoma. Highlights of her highly successful coaching career include playing for the national championship in the 2001-02 season, winning three Big Twelve Tournament Championships, and being named Big Twelve Coach of the Year three times. Coale is also recognized for her excellence off the court with athletes who excel in the classroom and are highly committed to community service. Under her leadership, the Sooner Women have set numerous game attendance records and have received outstanding financial support, raising the bar for what can be achieved in women’s athletics.

Ginny Creveling is an extraordinary community activist and civic leader who has devoted much of her work to helping women, children, and families. Among her accomplishments, she was the founder of Rainbow House, one of the earliest Tulsa organizations to address the issue of child abuse by providing an at-risk nursery. In 2005-06, she led the creation of a new community-owned nonprofit, the Oklahoma Conference for Community and Justice, which fights bias, bigotry, and prejudice through education and advocacy. In 2006, she was recognized as the Tulsan of the Year by TulsaPeople magazine.

Dr. Joe Anna Hibler served as the first appointed woman president of Southwestern Oklahoma State University from 1990-2001 and became only the second woman in state history to lead an institution of higher education. Since 2004, Hibler has served as a regent for the Regional University System of Oklahoma. She chairs the board of the Women’s Foundation of Oklahoma. She is a sought-after speaker on women’s issues and is a well-known advocate for the needs of low income single mothers who are trying to improve their lives and the lives of their children. She was the first women inductee into the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame at its inception in 1994.

Maxine Horner was the first African-American and the first woman to serve as chairperson of the Oklahoma Senate Democratic Caucus and, with Vicki Miles-LaGrange, shared the distinction of being the first African-American female state senator when she was elected in 1986 to represent her North Tulsa district. As a senator, she authored Senate Bill 156 Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program (OHLAP), which helps underprivileged students pay for their college education. She is a founder of the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame and has been a strong advocate of the arts and the preservation of Tulsa’s historic Greenwood District.

Dr. Kay Martin has played a pioneering role in the field of technology education since her appointment as CEO and Superintendent of Frances Tuttle Technology Center in 1997. Under Dr. Martin’s leadership, Francis Tuttle has been a strong supporter of programs and services for Oklahoma women and minorities, encouraging them to enter non-traditional career fields. Of special note is the “Girl Tech” program, in which female students are partnered with female mentors employed in non-traditional roles such as engineering and other technical fields. Martin provides leadership on many boards and organizations including the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth and the board of the Automotive Youth Educational System. [Source: Jan 29, 2007 press release by the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women]

Terry Neese is a public policy strategist and award-winning small business activist and owner. Neese made history in 1990 as the first woman nominated by a major political party for Lieutenant Governor. She declined a nomination by President George W. Bush to be Director of the U.S. Mint in 2005. She is the president and co-founder of the Women Impacting Public Policy Institute, Inc., an international non-profit, education and training research organization. She is also co-founder and past president of Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP). WIPP’s mission is to strengthen businesswomen’s sphere of influence in the legislative process, enhance economic opportunities, and foster small business alliances. Terry Neese Personnel Services recently celebrated 30 successful years in business, generating over $2.7 billion in payroll.

Claudia Tarrington was a political consultant, government relations specialist, and a tireless champion for the advancement of women. She helped create the 1994 legislation establishing a permanent Commission on the Status of Women and then chaired the body from 1994-1998. Under her leadership, the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame was re-established, the Oklahoma Women’s Summit was created, and legislation was coordinated that eliminated gender bias in state legislation. At the national level, she served as the outreach director and Senate lobbyist for the ERA Countdown Campaign and a member of the Women’s Leadership Forum of the Democratic National Committee. At her death in 2003, she was working as a lobbyist and fundraiser for Tulsa’s Expo Square.

Dr. Carolyn Taylor is an educator and a former state legislator. She has championed a variety of important issues affecting women and their families. As a member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives from 1984 to 1992, she served as principal author of legislation establishing a statewide prenatal care program, family medical leave policy act, and Sooner Start, a collaborative multi-agency early intervention program for children with disabilities. She is currently employed at Rogers State University (RSU) where she is a professor of political science. At RSU she has been recognized for her work in expanding access to affordable public education. Taylor has received numerous awards from local, state, and national organizations including induction into the Oklahoma Child Advocates Hall of Fame.

Della Warrior is a native of Red Rock and serves as the first female president of the Otoe-Missouria Tribe. As tribal chief executive she initiated the development and implementation of numerous programs including adolescent health programs and the White Eagle Divinity Program, an Upward Bound chapter for economically at-risk students. She served as president of the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) in Santa Fe from 1998-2006. In this role she is credited with re-developing the school, transforming it from a two-year postsecondary school to a four-year baccalaureate college, incorporating cultural language and arts into the curriculum, and securing over $100 million in gifts and grants to build a permanent campus. Among the many organizations she assists and advises, Warrior serves on the Board of Trustees of the National Museum of the Native American Indian.

The mission of the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women is to improve the quality of life for women, families, and children in Oklahoma. The Commission established the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame in 1982 to recognize Oklahoma women who are pioneers in their field or in projects that benefit Oklahoma, who have made a significant contribution to the state of Oklahoma, who serve or have served as role models to other Oklahoma women, who are “unsung heroes” who have made a difference in the lives of Oklahomans or Americans because of their actions, who have championed other women, women’s issues, or who have served as public policy advocates for issues important to women. Eighty women have been previously inducted into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame. A complete list of inductees can be found at: http://www.ok.gov/opm/Status_of_Women/Local%20Publish/html/hall_of_fame.html

--30--

Maxine Horner

2007-01-28T13:11:00.000-08:00

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia - Jan, 2007

Oklahoma State Senator Maxine Horner was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1933. She graduated from Booker T. Washington High School and received her BA from Langston University. She is married to the late Donald M. Horner and they have two children, Shari Tisdale, and Donald M Horner Jr. She has several grandchildren, her first grandchild Corey Tisdale is a political staffer for Congressman Dan Boren. Senator Horner served in the Oklahoma State Legislature for over 18 years before retiring. Senator Horner was the first African American Women Senator for Oklahoma. Maxine held the position as Democratic Caucus Chair, Vice Chair, Adult Literacy Advisory Comm, Appropriations, Education and Chair, Government Operations, Judiciary, Redistricting, Congressional Redistricting and Tourism.
Senator Horner is best known for commitment to education and the arts. Senator Horner is the founder of the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame.

Retrieved from "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maxine_Horner"
Category: Oklahoma politicians

Kate Barnard Award Luncheon

2007-01-28T12:43:00.000-08:00

OKLAHOMA COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 26, 2007

Contact: Chris Morriss
405.388-2900

Askins and Fallin Receive Prestigious Kate Barnard Award

The only two women to serve as Oklahoma’s Lieutenant Governor are this year’s recipients of the Kate Barnard Award, presented by the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women. Dr. Jennifer Paustenbaugh, Chair of the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women, presented the awards to Lieutenant Governor Jari Askins and former Lieutenant Governor Mary Fallin during a luncheon at the State Capitol on Thursday, January 25.

Adopting a proposal from Commissioner Linda Edmondson, the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women created the Kate Barnard Award in 1988 to honor outstanding women in public service in Oklahoma. The award is named after Kate Barnard, an Oklahoma native, who in 1907 became the first woman to win a statewide elected office in the United States.

Born and reared in Duncan, Oklahoma, Jari Askins was sworn in as Oklahoma’s 15th Lieutenant Governor in 2007, giving her the rare distinction of being involved in public service in all three branches of government.

Askins received her BA in Journalism from the University of Oklahoma and earned a Juris Doctorate from the OU College of Law. She served as Special District Judge for the District Court of Stephens County for eight years, from 1982-1990. In 1991, the Governor appointed her to the Pardon and Parole Board, which elected her as its first woman Chairman. She later served as Executive Director of the Pardon and Parole Board and as Deputy General Counsel to the Governor.

Askins was elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 1994 from District 50, and served for twelve years, earning the position of Democratic House Leader in 2005. She won statewide election as Lieutenant Governor in 2006, becoming the first Democratic woman to serve in that office. She was inducted into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame in 2001.

Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006, Mary Fallin represents Oklahoma’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Oklahoma County and most of Seminole and Pottawatomie Counties. Fallin was first elected to public office in 1990 as a state legislator. During her time as State Representative she was recognized by the American Legislative Exchange Council as Legislator of the Year and was named a Small Business Advocate by the National Federation of Independent Business.

In 1995, Fallin became the first woman and first Republican elected Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma. During her 12 years in office she pursued an aggressive agenda focusing on economic development, health care, education, and government reform. Fallin is a graduate of Oklahoma State University. She was inducted into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame in 2005.

“At the start of our second hundred years, it is appropriate that the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women would recognize these two outstanding women who have provided leadership in Oklahoma politics for more than a decade. They are blazing the trail for generations to follow. We applaud Congresswoman Fallin and Lt. Governor Askins for their vision and courage,” said Dr. Jennifer Paustenbaugh, chair of the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women.

Dr. Anne Morgan, Founding Chair of the Women’s Foundation of Oklahoma was guest speaker to the audience of commissioners, advisory council members, and honored guests – women legislators, state elected and appointed officials, and the judiciary.

Previous recipients of the Kate Barnard Award include U.S. Federal Judge Vicki Miles-LaGrange, State Senator Penny Williams, and State Senator Angela Monson.

-30-

OKC Rally For Peace Saturday, January 27, 2007

2007-01-28T12:33:00.000-08:00

OKC RALLY FOR PEACE SATURDAY, Jan 27
(Sent to The Daily Oklahoman)

Oklahoma City CONTACTS:
Darla Shelden © 623-0882 (H) 840-0244
Rex Friend © 326-7458
Nathaniel Batchelder 524-5577

Some 150 activists for peace braved freezing rain to participate in a "Rally for Peace" held on Saturday at the State Capitol. Colorful signs were held high as listeners cheered the words of religious and political opinion leaders, parents of Iraq veterans, one Iraq veteran, and a self-described “conservative Republican.”

State Senator Connie Johnson announced and read a resolution she is introducing to the Legislature calling President Bush’s sending additional troops to Iraq now a misguided expansion of a failed policy. She asked rally participants to express support for the resolution to their elected senators and representatives. Senator Andrew Rice and Representative Al McAffrey added their voices to the call for an end to the Iraq war.

Mother of an Iraq veteran Jeri Reed described her concern over disturbing changes in her son’s personality as a result of his Iraq service. Warren Henthorn said that his son Jeffrey’s reported suicide during his second tour in Iraq is still under investigation. Henthorn wants the war to end to spare other families the shattering loss his family has suffered. Founder of Oklahoma Veterans For Peace Jon Cantrell, a Vietnam veteran, said veterans know that this war will produce large numbers of soldiers suffering post-traumatic stress disorder for decades to come. Iraq veteran Brendan Jackson said he volunteered because he trusted the cause, but came to believe that he and the country had been sold a war that he now thinks is more about oil than national defense.

Porter Davis, a delegate to a national Republican Convention, said it is time for Americans of all political affiliations to speak with one voice against this war. Valerie Ackerman spoke for six Tulsans who drove to Oklahoma City for the rally. Ackerman is director of the Tulsa Peace House which organizes regular public vigils for peace there.

Dr. Katherine Scheirman, MD, an Oklahoma City veteran of 20 years service in the US Air Force, telephoned the rally from the national demonstrations being held simultaneously in Washington, DC. Scheirman reported that some 400,000 people were gathered there to listen to speakers calling for an end to the war.

Rev. Dr. Robin Meyers of Mayflower Congregational Church said that he had come to the rally not to be divisive but to grieve the loss of so many American and Iraqi lives in a conflict that he said violates the precepts of his faith. He invited rally participants to join him in reading aloud the names of Oklahomans killed in Iraq, in reverence for their ultimate sacrifice for what they believed was service to their country.

Meyers said that taking this public step was not without risk, because he was aware of a state statute which prohibits publishing the names of military casualties in a political context, and stated that there could be legal consequences to participating in the reading of the names.

Some 50 rally participants stepped up to join Meyers, and one by one, the names of 49 Oklahomans were read, along with their home towns and the dates of their deaths. Activist Darla Shelden shared the names of three Oklahomans who committed suicide following their service in Iraq.

Attorney Rex Friend next introduced a walk for peace to follow the rally, to be accompanied by police engaged for the event. The activists walked south on Lincoln Blvd to a peace pole installed at the Joy Mennonite Church, at NE 16th Street and Lincoln Blvd. From there, the walkers returned to the Capitol, pausing for reflection at the Veterans’ Memorial just south of NE 23rd Street.

Organizers including Nathaniel Batchelder of the Peace House in Oklahoma City expressed satisfaction that so many people had showed up in inclement weather. He said it is time for all citizens to make known their opposition to escalation of this war, and call Congress to bring US troops home.

END

2007-01-09T08:46:00.000-08:00

Compassionate Communication:

An Experiential Weekend Workshop in

Nonviolent Communication^sm

Oklahoma City, February 2 – 4, 2007

Led by: CNVC Certified Trainers Jim & Jori Manske

“Nonviolent Communication encourages the use of language that increases goodwill. It facilitates the flow of communication needed to exchange information and resolve differences peacefully and cooperatively. It honors and shows mutual respect for the needs and feelings of all.”

Nonviolent Communication gives you tools to:

· Connect with empathy to your own and others feelings and needs.

· Express your values, feelings, needs and requests in honest ways that inspire compassionate responses and cooperation.

· Deepen intimate relationships and create solutions based on safety, mutual respect and consensus.

· Learn to hear what others say with an opening to what is most alive in you and them in order to facilitate conflict resolution.

· Express gratitude and celebration in nonviolent communication.

When: Friday Feb. 2, 7PM -9PM When: Saturday, Feb. 3, 10AM - 5PM

Where: Integris Hospital Sunday, Feb. 4, 10AM - 4PM

3300 NW Expressway, OKC Where: Windsong Dojo

In Conference Room “K” 2201 W. I-44 Service Rd., OKC

(Friday evening is free and open (2 blocks west of Pennsylvania Ave.

to the public so bring a friend.) on the North side of I-44)

Cost: $180 to $120 on a sliding scale (more if you can, less if you can’t)

Lunches are included. Some partial scholarships may be available.

Limited space (to reserve your space send $60 deposit with form on back)

For more information: Tom McLain at TLMsolutions@aol.com (405-823-7801)

To find out more about Nonviolent Communication, go to www.cnvc.org

Registration for NVC Experiential Weekend Workshop:

Name:_________________________________ Phone(s):______________________

Address:_____________________________________________________________

E-mail address:________________________________________________________

Enclosed is a $60 deposit, I will mail the balance of $_______ by January 15^th, 2007

Mail check made out to OKC Friends Meeting (note “NVC Workshop” on check) to:

Arpita Brown, 13904 Wellsburg Court, Edmond, OK, 73013

----detach---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jim and Jori Manske are Certified Trainers of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) with The Center for Nonviolent Communication, which was created by Marshall Rosenberg. They are also Certified Practitioners of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). They have been actively studying communication skills as well as intrapersonal and interpersonal awareness. Their degrees are in Mass Communications (Jim) and Social Work (Jori). They have been presenting trainings, facilitations, mediations and seminars for organizational transformation for businesses, community groups, government and non-governmental agencies, private groups and individuals since 1971.

Jori is Interim Director for the Global Center for Nonviolent Communication in La Crescenta, CA. They helped found the New Mexico Network for Nonviolent Communication. They were elected by CNVC's Leading Team to be co-leaders of the Global Coordinating Council (GCC) with Marshall Rosenberg. Their mission is to cultivate and support NVC teams in every country worldwide by 2016.

What participants have said about Jim and Jori's NVC workshops:

"The forgiveness I found for myself has been lasting and helped me to understand how NVC has far reaching effects in my personal life. Words cannot describe how touched I was by the deeply compassionate way you related to the group."-Caroline Kino-Noji, Los Angeles

"It has been a transformative experience...Thank you for sharing both your expertise and yourselves." Clem Wings, Educator, Albuquerque

"I am changed by this workshop. I have a new way of being, relating, communicating. Thank you."-Lisa Collins, College Student, New Orleans

"This was the best balance of learning and practice of any of the many workshops I have attended." -Participant, Athens, GA

About National Women's Law Center

2006-12-13T13:36:00.000-08:00

Since 1972, the Center has expanded the possibilities for women and girls in this country. The Center uses the law in all its forms: getting new laws on the books and enforced; litigating ground-breaking cases in state and federal courts all the way to the Supreme Court; and educating the public about ways to make the law and public policies work for women and their families. An experienced staff of nearly 50 takes on the issues that cut to the core of women's and girls' lives in education, employment, family economic security, and health -- with special attention given to the needs of low-income women and their families.

Program Areas

Gender gaps persist in education, particularly when it comes to training women and girls for today's technology-oriented workplace, leveling the playing field in athletics, and other areas essential to the full development of their potential. The Center's Education program addresses these gaps by fighting for strong enforcement of Title IX and promoting programs that remove barriers to girls' educational opportunities. Current priorities include opening doors to vocational and career education programs that train young women to enter and succeed in non-traditional fields with the promise of greater pay and job opportunities; bringing groundbreaking lawsuits and undertaking other advocacy efforts to enforce Title IX's promise of equal treatment in education, including in athletics; and fighting for strong affirmative action policies that take race and gender into account to remedy discrimination and promote diversity in education.

Women still face discrimination in pay and promotions and a lack of critical supports that help them succeed in the workplace. The Center's Employment program addresses these barriers by fighting for equal treatment of women in all aspects of their employment. Current priorities include fighting for equal pay and benefits for women, including expanded family and medical leave opportunities; gaining strong enforcement of laws prohibiting sexual harassment and other job discrimination; and promoting the creation and preservation of valuable affirmative action programs in the workplace.

More women than men are poor in this country and their poverty is far more persistent. The Center's Family Economic Security program advances laws and public policies to help economically vulnerable women -- including single mothers, women of color and older women - by promoting high-quality, affordable child and dependent care, meaningful income support programs, strong Social Security and other retirement systems, and fair and fiscally responsible tax and budget policies. Current priorities include expanding federal and state resources for child care and early education; protecting and improving Social Security, especially against the threat of privatization; and leading a massive coalition and long-term public education effort to achieve a federal tax system that raises sufficient revenues to meet national priorities and assures that individuals and corporations pay their fair share.

Women's health is jeopardized by limited access to health care; reproductive rights are under concerted attack; and women's health needs are often overlooked. The Center's Health program is fighting to protect reproductive rights, increase women's access to health insurance, and promote policies that advance and protect women's health on the state and federal levels.

Current priorities include educating policy makers and the public about the need to protect and promote women's fundamental reproductive rights; pioneering new legal theories to ensure that health care providers do not refuse to address women's reproductive health needs; highlighting the best public policies for improving women's health; fighting to protect Medicaid; and enforcing rights to gain access to contraceptive coverage.

In addition, the Center moves quickly to address issues that transcend these program areas. For example, the core legal rights that women have won over the last 30 years - the right to choose, the right to equal opportunities in the workplace and schools, and a broad range of other legal protections that promote women's well-being and safety - are currently jeopardized by the appointment of federal judges with an extreme legal philosophy. The Center is leading the way in the debates over the Senate's role in evaluating and confirming judicial nominations and highlighting what is at stake for women and the public at large with respect to lifetime appointments to the federal courts.

Accomplishments

The Center has been at the forefront of landmark legal and public policy initiatives to improve the lives of women, girls and families since 1972. For example, the Center was instrumental in passing laws to prohibit pregnancy discrimination in employment and to provide compensation for victims of sexual harassment. The Center improved state and federal tax laws to help millions of families pay for child and dependent care and secured new federal remedies for women seeking child support. The Center has also been a leader in enforcing Title IX, the 1972 federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in education, including athletics, since it was enacted. For more information on the Center's history of accomplishments, please view "Expanding the Possibilities for 30 Years" and the biographies of Center Co-Presidents Marcia D. Greenberger and Nancy Duff Campbell.

Supporters

The Center's work would not be possible without the support of thousands of individual supporters and institutions, including: American Federation of State, County, & Municipal Employees; American Legacy Foundation; AOL Time Warner; American Express; Arnold & Porter; AT&T Foundation; Beech Street Foundation; BET Holdings; the Annie E. Casey Foundation; Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation; Cigna Foundation; Citigroup; Robert Sterling Clark Foundation, Inc.; The Beatrice R. & Joseph A. Coleman Foundation; Marjorie Cook Foundation; The Coca Cola Company; Credit Suisse First Boston; Nathan Cummings Foundation; Deer Creek Foundation; The Dyson Foundation; Equal Justice Works; Fannie Mae Foundation; Ford Foundation; Wallace Alexander Gerbode Foundation; The George Gund Foundation; Harley-Davidson Motor Company; William and Flora Hewlett Foundation; IBM Corporation; Kaiser Family Foundation; W.K. Kellogg Foundation; The MARGARET Fund; The John Merck Fund; Moriah Fund; The Ms. Foundation for Women; National Education Association; New York Stock Exchange; Open Society Institute; Ogilvy & Mather Worldwide; The Ottinger Foundation; The David and Lucile Packard Foundation; PepsiCo Foundation; The William Penn Foundation; The Rockefeller Foundation; Rockefeller Family Foundation; The Sandler Family Supporting Foundation; the Caroline and Sigmund Schott Foundation; Scherman Foundation; Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom; Simpson Thacher & Bartlett; Three Guineas Fund; Turner Foundation; Wilmer, Cutler, Pickering; Wyeth ... and many other generous foundations, law firms, corporations, unions and individuals.

For information about making a contribution to the Center, please call (202) 588-5180 or make a secure donation by credit card or by downloading a contribution form and mailing it with a check to National Women's Law Center, 11 Dupont Circle, NW, #800 Washington, D.C. 20036
The National Women's Law Center is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization. Contributions to the Center are tax-deductible under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code as allowed by law.

Speaker facing easier task in organizing House

2006-12-04T15:06:00.000-08:00

Pitts: Speaker facing easier task in organizing House
by William O. Pitts The Journal Record 11/20/2006

Organizing the Oklahoma House of Representatives where Republicans have a 56-45 majority is a lot simpler for House Speaker Elect Lance Cargill, R-Harrah, than in the state Senate. Previous president pro tempore Mike Morgan, D-Stillwater, and Republican leader Sen. Glenn Coffee, Oklahoma City, are faced with a 24-24 split of Democrats and Republicans. The House Republican majority – regardless of the outcome of a recount in one district where the Democrat won by two votes – still is impressive. Republicans essentially hung on to most of their gains from two years ago when they won control with a 57-45 margin in a presidential election year. Cargill has begun organizing the House majority leadership structure while the two Senate leaders are trying to find a common ground. One problem Cargill will not face this time that confronted Todd Hiett, Kellyville, when he was speaker of the House is the wholesale overhaul of House staff, which occurred two years ago when Republicans gained control of the House for the first time in 80 years. Hiett replaced most of the staff that had been in place for years under Democrat leadership in spite of the Democrats’ whining and media criticism. Besides Cargill, there will be an entirely new leadership team in the House. The new Republican caucus sworn in last week has chosen Rep. Gus Blackwell, R-Goodwell, to be the speaker pro tempore, replacing Rep. Susan Winchester, R-Chickasha, who was an unsuccessful candidate to be the first woman speaker. Rep. John Wright, R-Broken Arrow, was chosen to be the caucus chairman. He will replace Rep. Thad Balkman, R-Norman, who was narrowly defeated for re-election by former Rep. Wallace Collins, D-Norman. Cargill also named new people for other leadership posts. He chose Rep. Gregg Piatt, R-Ardmore, as his majority floor leader and Rep. Rob Johnson, R-Kingfisher, for the majority whip position. Geographically the new team covers a broad spectrum of the state, and according to the new speaker is designed to take a more bipartisan approach. He kept Rep. Chris Benge, R-Tulsa, as chairman of the powerful Appropriations and Budget Committee, which is responsible for writing the state budget in conjunction a similar Senate committee. A fiscal conservative, Benge did an excellent job as chairman the past two years and gained a lot of valuable experience. For any new speaker there always is the question of selecting committee chairs. Their choice sometimes leads to hard feelings. As of last Thursday all of these posts are vacant and are coveted by many members for several reasons. They help them raise campaign funds from those whose interests are affected by the particular committee. Committee chairs have a large say in deciding the flow of the legislation assigned to them. Holding a committee chair or even vice-chair usually is impressive to the voters in the legislator’s district. In the previous two sessions under Hiett, out of 25 standing committees, 23 were chaired by Republicans. Democrats chaired two and were vice chairs on seven. On several major committees, new chairs will have to be named because the previous holders are no longer available. These include the Judiciary Committee, which is responsible for handling legal legislation including lawsuit reform. In the same category are the committees on banks and banking, common education, and revenue and taxation. Rep. Ken Miller, R-Edmond, an economics professor, is reported to want to head this tax committee. Certainly there will be changes in some committees, but others may continue with the previous chair holders. How the House majority leadership structure is fleshed out will be important. Unless Senate Democrat and Republican leaders can work out the even split between the two parties, the House may play a bigger role next year than it has in the two previous years. There is talk of bipartisanship by Cargill and Democrat minority leader Danny Morgan, Prague, but that is easier said in November than done between February and May. William O. Pitts, the former president and chief executive of Oklahoma Business News, was the president and chief lobbyist for the Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association’s Oklahoma Division. You may reach him by phone at(405) 278-2880 or by e-mail, bill.pitts@journalrecord.com.

Legislative Issues: National Association of Commissions for Women

2006-10-31T07:55:00.000-08:00

National Association of Commissions for Women
Legislative Issues as of October 2006

Work and Family

NACW favors expanding the Family and Medical Leave Act to help working people make ends meet when they take unpaid time off for family medical emergencies or to care for new babies.

The bipartisan Family Leave Commission found that nearly two-thirds of employees who needed but did not take leave in 1994/95, cited lost wages
as the reason why they did not.

Implement laws and policies that decrease the financial hardship of unpaid leave for working families.

NACW urges government leadership in establishing public/private partnerships to assist families in meeting elder care responsibilities.

More than half of Americans (54%) say they will probably be responsible for the care of an elderly parent or relative in the next ten years.

Enact laws, policies, programs and services that recognize and support the emerging elder care challenges facing families, and particularly women.

NACW recommends creative and immediate actions to increase the availability and affordability of childcare and after school programs that support the needs of children and working parents.

Seventy-eight percent of mothers with school age children work outside the home. Sixty-three percent of mothers with children under six work outside the home.

Develop model policies for government and business that support the complex lives of women as they strive to perform well on the job, earn enough to support their families and provide care for their children and elder relatives.

Legislative Issues / Violence Against Women and Children

NACW urges employers to recognize that domestic violence does not stay at home when victims go to work.

Domestic violence can interfere with a woman¹s ability to get, keep or perform a job and cost employers billions a year in absenteeism, health care costs, productivity and employee turnover.

Promote the development of workplace policies that ensure that workplaces across America are supportive of the needs of employees who are facing domestic violence.

NACW urges support for laws and policies that ensure that workplaces across America are supportive of the needs of employees who are facing domestic violence.

It is estimated that 175,000 days per year are missed from paid work due to domestic violence.

Develop and implement laws and policies that allow victims of domestic violence leave from work to enforce legal protections.

NACW encourages intervention and prevention to help save children from violence at home and at school.

Children deserve to live in homes and attend schools that are free of violence.

Promote the development of programs and strategies that help children reject violence in their homes, their schools, and their communities.

Womens Health

NACW encourages and supports health promotion and disease prevention policies and initiatives targeting women.

Fifty percent of premature deaths in the United States can be prevented through preventive services as well as behavior change ‹ prevention is integral to the general health and well being of all Americans.

Increase health promotion and disease prevention initiatives aimed at women on such matters as teen pregnancy, drug and alcohol addiction, HIV/AIDS, heart disease, diabetes and various forms of cancer.

NACW advocates for the elimination of economic, employment, social and cultural barriers to health care for women.

Women who live in poverty or have less than a high school education have shorter life spans, higher rates of illness, disability, and death, and more limited access to high quality health care services.

Strengthen policies and increase funding for programs that improve access, and eliminate economic, employment, social and cultural barriers to adequate health care (including preventive care).

NACW advocates for the integration of reproductive health services into any health care system available to Americans.

Women of childbearing age (15 - 44) pay sixty-eight percent more in out-of-pocket health care costs than their male counterparts.

Require all group health insurance and health insurers to cover prescriptive contraceptive drugs and devices if such plans provide benefits for other outpatient prescriptive drugs and devices.

Economic Equity

NACW supports pay equity and equal pay for women and minorities.

Pay equity means that wages are based on job requirements such as skills, effort, and responsibility without consideration of race, sex, or ethnicity.

Encourage the implementation of a pay equity policy including a job evaluation system that reviews and compares the education, skills, and experience needed to perform different jobs.

NACW encouraged the passage of the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 1999 (S. 192 and H.R. 325), the federal law increasing minimum wage to $6.15 by January 1, 2001.

The majority of minimum wage earners are women! Women need more in order to meet current obligations and move toward self-sufficiency.

Enact laws that increase minimum wage to help end the cycle of poverty for women and their families.

NACW supports social security reform that reduces poverty among older women.

Social Security benefits provide a safety net for many women. Without the benefits, more than fifty-two percent of all elderly women would be destitute.

Support social security reform that strengthens financing while protecting women and improving benefits to reduce poverty among older women.

Civil Rights

NACW supports affirmative action as a tool for improving equity and equality in opportunities and wages for women and minorities.

Families depend on the wages of women. Fifty-five percent of employed women provide half or more of the household income. Eighteen percent provide all.

Defend affirmative action and other mechanisms that eradicate vestiges of discriminatory policies and practices and open job opportunities to qualified women and minorities, and opportunities for financial security for them and their families.

NACW urges the United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations to immediately hold hearings and that the Senate ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

CEDAW is an international bill of rights for women that aims to eliminate discrimination against women in the enjoyment of all civil, political, economic and cultural rights.

Protect the credibility of the United States as a leading advocate for human rights by ratifying the Convention. Several state legislatures have endorsed ratification.

NACW supports equity in education including access to technology for women and girls, especially those in urban and rural communities.

It is estimated that by the year 2010, sixty-five percent of jobs will require technology skills.

Support the Educating America¹s Girls Act of 1999 (S 1264/HR 2505) that among other important issues, requires schools to consider the different learning needs of girls in technology.

Event Nov 23, 9 am: Begin Thanksgiving Day with Health Eagle Ridge Turkey Trot

2006-10-27T21:27:00.000-07:00

For more information: Sjonna “sauna” Paulson or Debbie Anglin at Anglin Public Relations (405) 840-4222. After hours number for media on deadline: (405) 208-9842

Eagle Ridge Institute hosts seventh annual 8K race

OKLAHOMA CITY -– Make the first course of Thanksgiving Day celebrations a healthy one by lacing up those running shoes and participating in the Eagle Ridge Institute seventh annual Turkey Trot Classic.

This family-oriented Thanksgiving Day event offers fun-filled activities involving an 8K run starting at 9 a.m. to a “1-Mile Fun Run/Walk” starting at 9:10 a.m. and the “Little Gobbler Dash” at 9:45 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 23 at Stars & Stripes Park located at the south shore of Lake Hefner.

“I can’t think of a better way to kick-off the holiday season than by getting out and getting fit with family,” said Dorothy Herring, Eagle Ridge volunteer race coordinator.

“The Turkey Trot has become Eagle Ridge Institute’s Thanksgiving Day tradition and we have families who have participated since the beginning.”

The Turkey Trot has become Eagle Ridge Institute’s Thanksgiving Day tradition to promote healthy life choices for youth and families.

Last year, approximately 1,000 people from more than 30 town’s in Oklahoma and from 21 states participated in the state’s only USA Track and Field sanctioned and certified Thanksgiving Day race.

Registration is $22 for the 8K run, $17 for the 1-mile fun run/walk and no charge for the Little Gobbler Dash for ages 0-14.

Eagle Ridge Institute has been serving Oklahoma for more than 20 years by promoting healthy lifestyles for family preservation, youth development, and community progress. Eagle Ridge Institute’s primary focus is providing drug and alcohol prevention and treatment services to at-risk youth and families. Eagle Ridge Institute provides over 18 programs and services for youth, families, women, and communities and is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose programs are certified by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).

Editor’s note: For more information, photographs or to attend, please call Anglin Public Relations at (405) 840-4222.

Policy Group Identifies Candidate Issues and Trends

2006-10-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Oct. 2006

Contact: Dr. Roy Peters

918.521.9470

Susan Hardy Brooks

405.392.2325

OKLAHOMA CITY – On the Ballot 2006, an interactive CD released by the Citizens Policy Center, provides a one-of-a-kind guide to legislative candidate positions on health, education and economic development issues.

“On the Ballot is the first project of its kind in Oklahoma,” said Roy Peters, CPC board chairman. “Never before has such an effort been undertaken to accumulate in-depth information from candidates on their views and plans for our future.”

What truly sets the CPC endeavor apart from other voter information resources is the extent of the research paired with the integration of candidate comments included as verbatim dialogue in each “In Their Words” section, Peters explained.

“On the Ballot gives voters the opportunity to read for themselves exactly what their candidates have to say about the issues that matter most to them,” Peters said.

The most exciting outcome of this effort rests in the possibilities it offers the voting public statewide. On the Ballot will positively impact interest in issues that are important to Oklahoma, improve voter insight into the candidates vying to represent them and ultimately improve voter turnout, Peters said.

“On the Ballot is not about party politics. It is not about pushing a particular agenda or position on any issue for any special interest group,” Peters said. “Rather, On the Ballot is about educating and empowering every voter with the information they need to make informed decisions.”

Information on the CD is organized by House and Senate districts pending election in November. It provides side-by-side, at-a-glance perspectives as well as expanded narrative from candidate interviews. A total of sixty-three races and 126 candidates are included in the report.

The CD also provides navigation tools and indexing to simplify “exploration and discovery” of information of interest. The Executive Summary section compiles candidate responses creating an invaluable tool for in-depth analysis as well as a preview of what we can expect positions will be in the upcoming legislature.

“OTB2006 is a valuable resource for organizations supporting a particular cause or issue area, such as funding for economic development, research, children’s health or public education,” Peters said. “OTB2006, by virtue of its nonpartisan, unbiased approach of providing every candidate an equal opportunity to “speak their mind,” will serve every organization regardless of their position on any particular issue.”

When the Citizens Policy Center made the decision to pursue this effort, we investigated every possible resource we might be able to tap into to guarantee the accumulation of complete, reliable information, Peters said. We were very familiar with the products created by Oklahoma Publishing Today, an Oklahoma firm that has built its reputation on providing comprehensive, nonpartisan coverage of capitol activities. In fact, it was Oklahoma Publishing Today’s most recent efforts interviewing candidates for their On the Issues series that caused us to engage their assistance in developing this product.

“We know all too well that candidates tire of being asked to respond to questionnaires and polls that are slanted toward a particular political agenda,” Peters said. “We worked directly with the data gathered by a reputable third party so that candidates and the voting public could have every confidence that the information presented in OTB2006 is objective, truthful and credible.”

OTB2006 is a product of CPC’s Opportunity Initiative, designed to educate Oklahomans on issues that will create better opportunities for our citizens and a better future for our state.

Upcoming plans for CPC include publication of in-depth analysis of each issue area covered in OTB2006 leading up to and including the November election results. In addition, CPC will provide on-going analysis of legislative performance throughout session as it relates to the progress of relevant legislation.

Following the legislative session, the CPC will publish the Opportunity Index, a comprehensive analysis of legislators’ voting records on health, education and economic development issues.

The CPC is a nonpartisan, issue-based organization whose mission is to create better opportunities for all Oklahomans. The group is committed to identifying, understanding and promoting public policies that strengthen Oklahoma’s ability to provide people the opportunity to build good lives for themselves and their families.

Interested voters and organizations are encouraged to order additional copies of On the Ballot 2006 by emailing: media@citizenspolicycenter.org.

-30-

Silent Witness Exhibit Raises Awareness of Domestic Violence

2006-10-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

SILENT WITNESS EXHIBIT IN DOWNTOWN OKLAHOMA CITY

RAISES AWARENESS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Exhibit showcases 200 life-size silhouettes representing domestic violence murder victims

Oklahoma City, Okla. (Oct. 19, 2006) – Imagine 200 murder victims in a room, each one telling their story. Imagine that each one died violently at the hand of someone who was supposed to love them.

That is the story told by The Silent Witness, an exhibit on display from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today at Leadership Square at 211 N. Robinson in downtown Oklahoma City.

The exhibit contains 200 life-sized red silhouettes representing a man, woman or child that died at the hands of their abuser. Each individual’s story is written on the front of the silhouette – a story told too late to rescue these victims, but not too late to help others in Oklahoma.

“The Silent Witness exhibit tells the story for victims who no longer have a voice of their own,” said Janet L. Peery, CEO of the YWCA Oklahoma City, the only certified provider of domestic violence shelter and services in Oklahoma County. “Education is a key to survival for abuse victims – a key that can unlock the cycle of violence. By sharing these tragic stories, we hope to prevent future violence.”

“It is our goal, and sincere hope, that this exhibit will never grow to be 201 silhouettes,” continued Peery.

The Silent Witness exhibit, on loan to the YWCA Oklahoma City from the Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (OCADVSA), is traveling across Oklahoma during the month of October to mark Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This exhibit is part of a national initiative to honor individuals who were murdered by intimate partners and is maintained by OCADVSA.

About the YWCA Oklahoma City

With the mission of “Eliminating Racism & Empowering Women,” the Oklahoma City YWCA continues its century of work on behalf of women and minorities. More than 20,000 women and children in the Oklahoma City-area receive help through the Oklahoma City YWCA’s counseling, child care, transitional housing and crisis services programs, including emergency assistance for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Ongoing community outreach efforts of the YWCA Oklahoma City provide education on the issues of domestic and family violence, the empowerment of women and strategies to end racism. For more information on the Oklahoma City YWCA, visit www.ywcaokc.org.

Minutes Sept 28, 2006 - OK Commission on the Status of Women

2006-10-17T09:36:00.000-07:00

Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women

Regular Meeting Minutes

September 28, 2006, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Office of Personnel Management, Room G91

The Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women met in Room G91 of the Office of Personnel Management on September 28, 2006. Chair Jennifer Paustenbaugh called the meeting to order at 1:35 p.m.

Commissioners Present: Bob Darcy, Catherine Haynes, Kathryn Jones, Denise Kinzie, Lou Kohlman, Debbe Leftwich, Pat Martin, Bernice Mitchell, Chris Morriss, Jilda Motley, Anita Norman, Jennifer Paustenbaugh, Claudean Reynolds, Marlene Smith, Valerie Thompson, Mary Walker, Ginny Wilson, Latasha Wilson (Staff)

Commissioners Excused: Sally Frasier, Vicki French, Rebecca Kennedy, Lou Kerr, Patricia Presley, Christie Woodson

Commissioners Absent: Betty Boyd, Marilyn Ehlers, Rowena Ogden, Sheila Sheaman, Renita Shofner, Margaret Swimmer, Janelle Walker

Advisory Council Members Present: Amy Bahora, Leslie Thomas, Marilyn Capps, Greta Stewart, Kathy Huston, Jean Warner

Visitors Present: Pat Potts, candidate for the Oklahoma Senate, Deena Fisher, Dean of the NW OSU campus at Woodward, Gloria Burdine, coordinator of women’s programs through the institutional diversity program at OSU.

Roll Call: Secretary Lou Kohlman called the roll and noted that seventeen (17) Commissioners present constituted a quorum.

Women’s History Moment: Amy Bahora, Advisory Council, using the theme of women changing history, talked about Harriet Beecher Stowe and Uncle Tom’s Cabin.

Minutes of August, 2006 Meeting: The Minutes were approved as amended; Commissioner Motley was excused in August.

Advisory Council member Jean Warner noted that her website, Oklahomawomen.blogspot.com, which features Oklahoma women, links to the Commission. Ms. Warner was featured in Oklahoma Today and said good things about the Commission. Advisory Council member Greta Stewart invited the Commissioners to the upcoming Women of Color Health Fair and Forum at MetroTech on October 14^th. Advisory Council member Leslie Thomas discussed the Heart Association’s Go Red for Women events, including the Wear Red Day in February, and the May 4^th 2007 luncheon and day devoted to women’s health. Ms. Burdine invited Commissioners to upcoming women’s diversity events at OSU.

Reports:

Chair: There was no report.

Secretary: There was no report.

Advisory Council Chair: There was no report, bur the Advisory Council Chair welcomed Advisory Council members to the meeting. The Chair noted that the Vice Chair position, filled from the Advisory Council, is open, and called for expressions of interest from Advisory Council members.

Unfinished Business:

Topical Committees: The Chair passed around Topical Committee assignments lists to Commissioners and Advisory Council members. Patricia Presley currently chairs the Women Incarcerated committee. Chris Morriss chairs the Women in Leadership committee. Vicki French chairs the Women’s Health/Eldercare committee. The Chair noted current member assignments to committees and called for each Commissioner to accept assignment to a committee. Advisory Council members were also asked to review the assignments and encouraged to volunteer.

November Date: The Commission noted that the November meeting date, November 16^th, is Statehood Day and the day Senators are sworn in. Bob Darcy moved to reschedule that meeting for November 9, and Anita Norman seconded. The motion passed with none opposed. Ms. Wilson will inform the Secretary of State’s office about the meeting date and place change.

Topical Committee Reports: The Health committee met today. Bernice Mitchell delivered a report of that meeting. The committee discussed the Proctor & Gamble sponsored Healthy BONES project, introduced during the NACW national conference. Advisory council member Dr. Adeline Yerkes has offered to assist the committee with women’s health issues. Last year, the committee had a health forum focusing on women’s health in Oklahoma. The Committee would like to repeat the forum before the November meeting, focusing the forum on the Healthy BONES project and an update on women’s health, focusing on eldercare services. The committee hopes to have an osteoporosis testing machine available. The committee is considering venues. The Commission suggests the History Center, if it is available. The committee hopes to keep the cost below $500. Bob Darcy moved that we authorize the committee to arrange for a November 16^th Commission meeting at the History Center or some other appropriate location. Marlene Smith seconded. The motion passed with no dissent. Bob Darcy moved that the Commission authorize expenditure of up to $750. Marlene Smith seconded. The motion passed, none opposed, Senator Leftwich abstaining.

Financial Report: Marilyn Capps presented the financial report as of August 31, 2006. The money available to the Commission is $30,593 with general encumbrances. The budget request for the next fiscal year has not been finalized.

Projects:

Hall of Fame Report: Vice Chair Haynes reported on the Hall of Fame event status. The Hall of Fame committee includes Jennifer, Bernice, Kathryn Jones, Patricia Presley, and Latasha Wilson. A letter was sent requesting approval for reservation of the House chamber and rotunda for Thursday, March 22. That request is awaiting approval. The facilities request from Department of Central Services has been prepared. The committee is researching caterers. The Nomination Form has been prepared, and nomination packets were distributed at today’s meeting. The Selection Committee was formed at today’s meeting and includes Chair Paustenbaugh, Advisory Council Chair Jilda Motley, former inductee Bernice Mitchell, Former Chair Leftwich, and Rebecca Kennedy.

After any corrections, copies of the Nomination Packet will be distributed to members of the Legislature. Commissioners suggested requiring a current photograph, suitable for publication, in the nomination packet, to facilitate press releases and publication in the Almanac. Rather than the “additional information” category, Commissioners suggested including in the “information on nominee” area an optional category for endorsement letters (limited to three), newspaper articles, etc. The postmark deadline for applications is November 9^th. The form will be linked to the Commission website, available to fill out online and print to mail.

The committee noted that the current projected date falls during Spring Break and agreed to consider moving the date to March 29. Bob Darcy moved and Catherine Haynes seconded, to move the March meeting date to Thursday, March 29^th, 2007. The motion carried with no opposition. During the meeting, Ms. Wilson asked the Sergeant at Arms to reserve this date for the Commission.

Bob Darcy moved to authorize the Hall of Fame committee to spend up to $5000. Lou Kohlman seconded. Motion carried with no opposition, Senator Leftwich abstaining.

SWIPS conference report: A steering committee was formed to explore bringing the conference to Oklahoma in April, 2008. Pat Martin reported on the SWIPS steering committee efforts. The steering committee includes Marsha Bennett, Denise Bode, Laura Boyd, Pat Fenell, Marti Ferritti, Connie Johnson, Kathy Jones, Lou Kerr, Lou Kohlman, Debbe Leftwich, Pat Martin, Angela Monson, Patti Presley, Brenda Reneau, Cindy Simon Rosenthal, Susan Savage, Greta Shepard Stewart, Kathy Taylor, and Susan Winchester. Steering committee members have agreed to get commitments for $150,000 from area & statewide individuals and organizations for sponsorship, by December 31. The committee is dividing up personal contacts and will send letters and personally contact each prospect. Commissioner Martin asks Commissioners and Advisory Council to offer more donor suggestions or offer to make any personal contacts. Secretary Kohlman will send Commissioners and Advisory Council members a list of the potential donors.

New Women Legislators: The Commission has several vases remaining, and proposes to give them to newly elected women legislators and continue to fill those during Session in 2007. Bob Darcy moved that the Commission authorize up to $100 to provide and fill vases for elected women officials. Jilda Motley seconded the motion. The motion passed without opposition. Senator Leftwich abstained.

Location and Date for December meeting: Commissioners agree that meeting should be left in Tulsa, as the only regular meeting held there. Mary Walker offered to explore venues and report at the next meeting. Lou Kohlman offered to ask Dean Butkin whether the group can meet at the Tulsa law school. Other Tulsa Commissioners will also explore venues. Bernice Mitchell moved the December meeting/luncheon be held in Tulsa on or prior to Friday, December 15 at a place to be determined. Bob Darcy seconded the motion. The motion passed with none opposed.

Next meeting: October 26, 2006, 1:30 p.m., at the Office of Personnel Management Room G91. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Violence Month.

The meeting was adjourned at 3:20 p.m. Kathy Jones moved to adjourn, Bob Darcy seconded.

Why Aren't We Shocked? by Bob Herbert

2006-10-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

Op-Ed Columnist “Why Aren’t We Shocked?” By BOB HERBERT

“Who needs a brain when you have these?” — message on an Abercrombie & Fitch T-shirt for young women

In the recent shootings at an Amish schoolhouse in rural Pennsylvania and a large public high school in Colorado, the killers went out of their way to separate the girls from the boys, and then deliberately attacked only the girls. Ten girls were shot and five killed at the Amish school. One girl was killed and a number of others were molested in the Colorado attack.

In the widespread coverage that followed these crimes, very little was made of the fact that only girls were targeted. Imagine if a gunman had gone into a school, separated the kids up on the basis of race or religion, and then shot only the black kids. Or only the white kids. Or only the Jews.

There would have been thunderous outrage. The country would have first recoiled in horror, and then mobilized in an effort to eradicate that kind of murderous bigotry. There would have been calls for action and reflection. And the attack would have been seen for what it really was: a hate crime.

None of that occurred because these were just girls, and we have become so accustomed to living in a society saturated with misogyny that violence against females is more or less to be expected. Stories about the rape, murder and mutilation of women and girls are staples of the news, as familiar to us as weather forecasts. The startling aspect of the Pennsylvania attack was that this terrible thing happened at a school in Amish country, not that it happened to girls.

The disrespectful, degrading, contemptuous treatment of women is so pervasive and so mainstream that it has just about lost its ability to shock. Guys at sporting events and other public venues have shown no qualms about raising an insistent chant to nearby women to show their breasts. An ad for a major long-distance telephone carrier shows three apparently naked women holding a billing statement from a competitor. The text asks, “When was the last time you got screwed?” An ad for Clinique moisturizing lotion shows a woman’s face with the lotion spattered across it to simulate the climactic shot of a porn video.

We have a problem. Staggering amounts of violence are unleashed on women every day, and there is no escaping the fact that in the most sensational stories, large segments of the population are titillated by that violence. We’ve been watching the sexualized image of the murdered 6-year-old JonBenet Ramsey for 10 years. JonBenet is dead. Her mother is dead. And we’re still watching the video of this poor child prancing in lipstick and high heels.

What have we learned since then? That there’s big money to be made from thongs, spandex tops and sexy makeovers for little girls. In a misogynistic culture, it’s never too early to drill into the minds of girls that what really matters is their appearance and their ability to please men sexually.

A girl or woman is sexually assaulted every couple of minutes or so in the U.S. The number of seriously battered wives and girlfriends is far beyond the ability of any agency to count. We’re all implicated in this carnage because the relentless violence against women and girls is linked at its core to the wider society’s casual willingness to dehumanize women and girls, to see them first and foremost as sexual vessels — objects — and never, ever as the equals of men.

“Once you dehumanize somebody, everything is possible,” said Taina Bien-Aimé, executive director of the women’s advocacy group Equality Now.

That was never clearer than in some of the extreme forms of pornography that have spread like nuclear waste across mainstream America. Forget the embarrassed, inhibited raincoat crowd of the old days. Now Mr. Solid Citizen can come home, log on to this $7 billion mega-industry and get his kicks watching real women being beaten and sexually assaulted on Web sites with names like “Ravished Bride” and “Rough Sex — Where Whores Get Owned.”

Then, of course, there’s gangsta rap, and the video games where the players themselves get to maul and molest women, the rise of pimp culture (the Academy Award-winning song this year was “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp”), and on and on.

You’re deluded if you think this is all about fun and games. It’s all part of a devastating continuum of misogyny that at its farthest extreme touches down in places like the one-room Amish schoolhouse in normally quiet Nickel Mines, Pa.

Rep Sally Kern Defends Federal Funded Abstinence Programs

2006-10-13T11:25:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 13, 2006

Contact: State Representative Sally Kern
Capitol: (405) 557-7348
Oklahoma City: (405) 942-3504

Teachers' Union Attacks Oklahoma Values

OKLAHOMA CITY (October 13, 2006) - Rather than support parental and local community efforts to deter teenage sexual activity, the National Education Association is actively undermining those initiatives, state Rep. Sally Kern said today.

"There's no doubt that abstinence is the best way for teenagers to avoid the pitfalls of unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, but the NEA and its surrogates apparently don't want that message taught to our children," said Kern, an Oklahoma City Republican and former public school teacher.

A new report cosponsored by the National Education Association with the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the U.S. (SIECUS) attacks abstinence programs and calls for federal lawmakers to cut funding to the programs.

Although the NEA report claims abstinence programs do not work, Kern noted other studies conducted by both the federal government and public universities have found abstinence programs do deter sexual activity among teenagers.

"Frankly, sex education decisions should be made at the local level and I don't know why a labor union feels the need to interfere,"
Kern said.

She urged Oklahoma teachers who support local control and community values to contact the Oklahoma Education Association, the local state affiliate of the NEA, and voice their opposition to the union's anti-abstinence efforts.

This is not the first time the OEA and its affiliates have worked to undermine the teachers and communities the group claims to represent, Kern noted.

Although Oklahoma's teacher retirement system is one of the worst funded in the nation, the OEA actually lobbied - successfully - to kill a bill that would have poured millions of dollars into the system this year.

The legislation, which would have placed millions of dollars in surplus funds into the retirement system, passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives on an overwhelming, bipartisan vote of 92-3, but the OEA successfully lobbied Senate leaders to kill the bill without a vote.

In addition, when state lawmakers tried to boost the salaries of veteran teachers by up to $3,800 this year, the OEA successfully lobbied to slash the pay raise.

As a result, teachers with only a year's experience in Oklahoma now receive roughly $4,800 more than their Texas counterparts, but Oklahoma teachers with 20 years' experience are paid approximately $3,800 less than Texas teachers with the same experience.

The OEA's actions mean Oklahoma will continue to have trouble retaining its veteran teachers in the education market, Kern noted.

"The OEA has actively opposed every serious plan that would benefit experienced teachers and retired educators, and now they are opposing common-sense and community values by targeting abstinence programs," Kern said. "I don't know who the union represents, but it sure isn't the teachers or parents I know."

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Women's Empowerment Working Session Summary - 10/12/2006

2006-10-13T10:39:00.000-07:00

Fact Sheet
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
October 12, 2006

Summary Recommendations of the Women's Empowerment Working Session

On September 23, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice hosted a working
session with women Ministers and Heads of State to discuss strategies for the political, economic, legal, and educational empowerment of women worldwide. The
participants agreed on the following recommendations:

Networking:

* Networking among women leaders should be expanded.
* A Roster of Women Leaders should be established.
* Sharing of women's empowerment "best practices" between regions is
essential.
* At the grass roots level, setting up "Model Villages" to encompass
political, economic, and justice issues is a deliverable worth pursuing.

Education:
* Literacy and education must remain a key component in empowerment efforts.
* In some cases, educational opportunities must target girls in particular,
especially in the developing world, to address their unique challenges and
disadvantages.

Political Participation:

* Women leaders will work toward dealing with the stereotype that women are
weak participants in political systems.
* More senior women are needed in the UN and other regional organizations.
* Civic education is an important vehicle for changing political culture.

Peace and Security:

* Because women are directly affected by conflict, women must be at the
negotiating table for peace building efforts and post-conflict decision
making.
* Statutory changes and rule of law are required to protect women.
* Women leaders could establish a roster of women qualified to serve as
envoys in mediation and peacekeeping.

Culture and Religion:

* Women's participation in religious and cultural dialogues is important.
* A working session including women of the Islamic world is desirable.

Economic Empowerment:

* Microfinance projects particularly help women. While the US has been active
here, European leaders noted more could be done from Europe in support of
microfinance and in building partnerships.

Follow-up:

* Austria offered to host a follow-up Working Session.
* A small Steering Committee will be constituted with members from each
region of the world to take women's empowerment forward.

Participants (non-U.S.):

Austria: FM Ursula Plassnik

Bahrain: Ambassador Sheikha Haya Rashed Al-Khalifa, President of the 61st UN
General Assembly

Barbados: FM Dame Billie Miller

Benin: FM Marian Aladji Boni-Diallo

Burundi: FM Antoinette Batumubwira

Croatia: FM Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic

Greece: FM Dora Bakoyannis

Iraq: Minister Wijdan Salim, Minister of Human Rights

Iceland: FM Valgerdur Sverrisdottir

Liberia: President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf

Liechtenstein: FM Rita Kieber-Beck

Malawi: FM Joyce Banda

Mozambique: FM Alcinda de Abreu

Niger: FM Aichatou Mindaoudou

Nigeria: FM Ogwu

Pakistan: Minister Sumaira Malik, Minister for Women's Development

Poland: FM Anna Fotyga

Tanzania: FM Asha-Rose Mtengeti-Migiro

Participants (U.S.):

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice

Senior Advisor to the Secretary of State for Women's Empowerment, Ambassador
Shrin Tahir-Kheli

Under Secretary for Democracy and Global Affairs, Paula J. Dobriansky

Questions about this event should be directed to the Office of the Senior
Advisor to the Secretary of State for Women's Empowerment at 202-647-7282.

2006/927

Released on October 12, 2006

***********************************************************
See http://www.state.gov/g/wi/ for International Women's Issues

OKC YWCA Reacts to Recent Domestic Violence Death

2006-10-13T09:13:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release: YWCA OKC Media
Contact: Josh Beasley, Cell: 405-503-3681, jbeasley@ywcaokc.org

YWCA OKLAHOMA CITY REACTS TO MOST RECENT
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DEATH IN OKLAHOMA

News of Stigler murder-suicide “chilled my soul,” responds CEO Jan Peery

Oklahoma City, Okla. (Oct. 9, 2006) – “My heart is so heavy,” stated Marcia Smith, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault as she shared information on the latest domestic violence death in our state – a murder-suicide in Stigler, Oklahoma.

“After only two weeks since the death of Nancy Moore here in Oklahoma City, this news sent a chill through my soul,” said Janet L. Peery, CEO of the YWCA Oklahoma City, the only shelter in Oklahoma County licensed and certified to assist victims of domestic violence.

Across our nation this month, pink ribbons are seen everywhere as people recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month, raising awareness for a disease that tragically affects many women. But, October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month across the nation – raising awareness about a crime that affects one in four women. Annually more than 2,000 domestic violence victims are killed – and another 480,000 are injured during the crime of domestic violence. Nearly all of these victims are women and children. In Oklahoma alone, approximately 25,000 cases will be reported again this year.

The Violence Policy Center announced its most recent numbers for women killed by men. Oklahoma moved from 13^th to 7^th in the nation.

“We’re moving the wrong way!” stated Peery. “With the most recent deaths in our community, that statistic hits home. Can we make a difference? The answer is 'yes!' But it ‘takes a village’ to make that happen.”

The public must continue to understand that domestic violence is not just a shame – it’s a crime. Law enforcement must be aggressive in its efforts to keep victims safe, arrest perpetrators and enforce Victim Protection Orders. District attorneys and judges must understand the dynamics of the ‘cycle of violence,’ prosecute these crimes and consistently hold perpetrators accountable. Government officials, law makers, and voters must assure there are strict laws and adequate funds for law enforcement and victim service agencies.

The business world too, has a part. Business owners must implement policies to keep their employees who are victims safe in the work place. Additionally, they must protect victims’ jobs while they receive counseling, legal assistance, or medical treatment. It takes us all – the village.

As you see the pink ribbons strung in every window, also think PURPLE for Domestic Violence Awareness month. Think of the agencies like the YWCA Oklahoma City that assists victims in staying safe through their services including emergency shelter, transitional housing, counseling, and advocacy.

Many options are also available for individuals interested in getting involved. Whether it is by giving monetary or supply donations, volunteering, or supporting legislation for tough standards in our state, every individual can do something to help to protect our community, our families and – most importantly – our children.

“Our hearts are very heavy these days, but we also see hope in each survivor,” continued Peery of the YWCA Oklahoma City. “The YWCA Oklahoma City’s pledge to the community is to continue providing a safe haven for victims and services to assist them in becoming survivors; to advocate for strict laws and enforcement; and to work with agencies across the board to create real and lasting change in our community.”

For more information contact the YWCA Oklahoma City at 948-1770 or www.ywcaokc.org.

About the Oklahoma City YWCA

Tulsa CAP's October e-Newsletter

2006-10-13T09:06:00.000-07:00

October 2006

SQ 725: Changes to Constitutional Reserve Fund

New Issue Brief Provides Information on State Question Aimed At Aiding At-Risk Manufacturers

Community Action Project (CAP) today released an issue brief, "SQ 725: Use of Constitutional Reserve Fund for At-Risk Manufacturers" outlining the details of the upcoming general election (November 7) ballot question which will ask Oklahomans whether they want to authorize use of the state’s Rainy Day Fund to assist at-risk manufacturers.

State Ballot Question 725 is a proposed constitutional amendment that would make up to $10 million available annually from the state’s Constitutional Reserve Fund (Rainy Day Fund) for incentive payments to help at-risk manufacturing companies that may be forced to close or move elsewhere. Payments would be made to eligible companies fulfilling various specified requirements for up to 10% of the capital costs of new retooling or modernization projects, subject to approval by the Governor, House Speaker and Senate President Pro Tem. Payments could only be made in years when the Rainy Day Fund has a balance in excess of $80 million and when state revenues for the upcoming year are projected to grow.

In addition to providing a summary of the ballot measure, the brief also provides several arguments made by advocates for and against the measure. The information aims to help voters understand both sides of the issue and make an informed decision at the ballot booth next month. You are encouraged to share the issue brief freely with others who may wish to be better educated about this proposed constitutional change.

SQ 725 is the result of two peices of legislation:

SB 755 (2005 Legislative Session)

HB 1619 (2006 Legislative Session)

Rainy Day Fund

History and Purpose

Oklahoma’s Constitutional Reserve Fund, known as the Rainy Day Fund (RDF), was created by a vote of the people in 1985. When revenues exceed certified estimates for a given year, the surplus is deposited in the RDF.

There is a cap in the balance of the RDF of 10% of the amount of general revenue certified for the preceding fiscal year.

Money in the Rainy Day Fund can be spent as follows (SQ 708):
– Up to 3/8 for a shortfall in current year General Revenue collections;
– Up to 3/8 if projected General Revenues collections for the upcoming year are below General Revenue collections for the current fiscal year; and,
– Up to 1/4 upon declaration of an Emergency and legislative approval.

Rainy Day Fund Balances

For more information on the history of the Rainy Day Fund, click here.

For More Information

SQ 725 and State Budget & Tax Information

To access the CAP issue brief mentioned above or to access additional information on state budget and tax issues, see the links below.

CAP Issue Brief on SQ 725	CAP Public Policy Homepage
Alliance for Oklahoma's Future Homepage

State Questions (November 2006 Ballot)

SQ 724
This measure amends the State Constitution to restrict State pay to legislators while in jail or prison found guilty. Affected legislators must return any State pay received for time while in jail or prison.

SQ 725
This measure amends the State Constitution to allow money to be spent from the Rainy Day Fund (RDF) to help at-risk manufacturers. Payments from the RDF must be unanimously approved by the Governor, the Speaker of the House, and the President Pro- Tempore of the Senate. Such spending is allowed in years when there is in excess of $80 Million in the Fund and other conditions are met. Spending is limited to $10 Million annually. The help given to a manufacturer is limited to 10% of its in-State capital investments. (See Issue Brief for more information)

SQ 733
This measure amends the State Constitution to allow beverage package stores to sell alcoholic beverages on election days while the polls are open.

SQ 734
This measure amends the State Constitution to allow the Oklahoma State Legislature to govern the application process for the "freeport expemption" -- a property tax exemption for goods shipped into the state, but that do not remain in the state for more than 90 days.

Learn More

email: dblatt@captc.org

phone: (918) 382-3228

web: http://www.okpolicy.org

Community Action Project is a Tulsa-based comprehensive anti-poverty agency whose mission is to help individuals and families in need achieve self- sufficiency. CAP’s public policy department aims to promote policies that will benefit low- and moderate- income Oklahomans through research, education and advocacy.

Kimberly Fobbs on "Why Politics?"

2006-10-12T17:20:00.000-07:00

Why Politics?

"What made you decide to go into politics?" This is the question I'm most often asked when I introduce myself as the nominee for representative to people I meet in House District 80 covering parts of Broken Arrow, Bixby, South Tulsa & Glenpool.

In ten seconds or less, I've found the time inadequate to express the full depth of "WHY?", when this path subjects you to derision, scorn or even pity. I believe I made the step into Public Service, not Politics for the future of families much like my own.

In my early forties, I'm in that special in-between group, not quite a baby boomer, and yet I see my mother and grandmother, both retired, independent, and living with disabilities who continue to serve their communities through church and volunteering. At 90, my grandmother in Ohio, who has never driven a car, continues to deliver meals on wheels to those she describes as "The Elderly" and won't hear of slowing down. So why not serve?

We all have crossroads in our lives. Some we recognize immediately and some we don't. The path to elected office was neither straight nor narrow, but the eyes of young children, already without hope, without benefit of a warm reassuring hug that they could lay their heads in a safe warm home compelled me to action.

Years ago, as a Loaned Executive for the Tulsa Area United Way, I'll never forget the tour we received through various agencies and shelters to see firsthand the need for which we would champion.

Asked to dress in our business best, I've never forgotten the shame I felt entering the world of homeless children at the shelter. Some had tattered clothes and rag dolls, if they had them at all, long overused. As the guide explained what would happen, a little girl grabbed the hem of my dress and hugged me and said what a pretty lady I was. In that moment, something shifted in my heart and I felt ashamed to think the dress I wore, was a bag of groceries, or even a light bill to this family.

In her circumstances, who would see to it that she went to college, that she had healthcare, and that she had a support system to ensure all her dreams could be fulfilled? Now, years later, I'm a wife and mother blessed with healthy, well-educated children.

Who will be the voice to represent the voiceless? Referencing the 'Status of Women in Oklahoma' by the Institute for Women's policy research, I'm saddened that the very core of Oklahoma's future, our families, is in crisis.

In terms of median earnings, lack of healthcare for children, high women and minority incarceration rates, and the small percentage of women elected in Oklahoma, we rank woefully at best. These facts are a precursor to determining our fate and that of our future economy and growth. Those fortunate enough to graduate college are leaving our state and our tax base is eroding.

Rhetorically speaking, what will our workforce look like 10 to 20 years from now, when unhealthy, undereducated children, become unhealthy, undereducated adults? Who wins then?

A deeper look into the numbers shows the growing crisis we face. Broken Arrow and Bixby have some of the finest schools for example and are leaders in our area, yet everywhere I go, I meet wonderful, gray-haired, loving grannies who struggle with Medicare and Social Security while raising their grandchildren due to the epidemic of meth and crime coming to our doorsteps.

Open your eyes, the next time you're in the grocery store or visiting your child's school, ask the mothers of mothers, did they expect this to happen? It's time we hear the voiceless and ensure our Oklahoma Legislature represents the changing kaleidoscope of Oklahoma families and children. I'm left with the profound words of Presidents Ronald Reagan and John F. Kennedy Jr. who guide me....

"The house we hope to build is not for my generation but for yours. It is your future that matters. And I hope that when you are my age, you will be able to say as I have been able to say: We lived in freedom. We lived lives that were a statement, not an apology." - Ronald Reagan

"If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich. - John F. Kennedy

"The ignorance of one voter in a democracy impairs the security of all." - John F. Kennedy

In these quotes is my answer to “Why Politics, Why public service?” There are many heated issues in our State and National dialog that I hope to champion by being elected in November, but in my opinion none more important than our very existence. It's time for new energy, effective leadership and moral clarity. The question we must ask ourselves is how much longer can we afford to NOT get involved?

Kimberly Fobbs - Candidate for Oklahoma House District 80

A Disproportionate Share of the Increase in Poverty Is Borne by Women and the Elderly

2006-10-12T09:44:00.000-07:00

STATEMENT OF:

Joan Kuriansky, Executive Director, Wider Opportunities for Women

On Poverty in the United States 2006

August 30, 2006

CONTACT: Deborah Cutler-Ortiz; Ph: 202-464-1596

Income Inequity Grows

A Disproportionate Share of the Increase in Poverty Is Borne by Women and the Elderly

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Census data released yesterday shows increased inequity as the benefits of a steadily growing economy benefit the wealthiest among us, while poverty increased for the average family and the growing population of elderly. As an organization committed to promoting economic security for women and girls throughout their lifetime, we are disheartened by the hit taken by women of color, single heads of households, and/or elderly. Clearly the growth of the wallets of the wealthy failed to trickle down to the average worker as poverty has remained unacceptably high –leaving behind 37 million people. The U.S. Census data shows some disturbing trends for women and their families and their elder parents:

The number of women in poverty increased — nearly 400,000 more women are in poverty in 2005 than 2004. Women in poverty reached 2.1 million in 2005.
14.1 percent of women live below 100 percent of poverty compared to 11.1 percent of men.
25.2 percent of women who did not finish high school are living in poverty.
38 percent of female headed-households with related children under 18 years of age (no husband present) are living in poverty.
Poverty is even greater among women of color:
o 11.9 percent of non-Hispanic white females are living in poverty;

o 27.1 percent of African-American females are living in poverty; and

o 23.9 percent of Hispanic females are living in poverty.

Despite the growing number of people reaching 65 and older, the U.S. Census data shows that poverty has remained at 3.6 million in 2005 – 10 percent of those aged 65 or older live in poverty ($9,367) and, 53 percent live below 200 percent of poverty ($18,734).

Women are almost twice as likely to live in poverty in their senior years as men (7 percent of men and 12 percent of women live in poverty).
Poverty it hitting older women of color harder than older non-Hispanic whites:
§ 8 percent of non-Hispanic whites live in poverty;

§ 25 percent of African-Americans live in poverty;

§ 22 percent of Hispanics live in poverty; and

§ 45.9 percent of older Hispanic women who live alone live in poverty.

These numbers are merely the tip of the iceberg. These figures represent use of an inadequate and out-of-date Federal poverty threshold as its baseline measure, thus failing to fully document hardship in our nation. In 2005, a family of four, including 2 children is living in poverty if the family income is at or below $19,806, far below subsistence for most American families. Even at incomes two to three times above this threshold, many families cannot meet their basic needs. For the elderly, costs for even the most healthy of the elderly can be as high as $23,600 a year, far above the poverty threshold level for seniors.

“It is within our power to make the hard choices necessary to rebuild our national psyche and protect our country, while making our economy work for women and their families”, said Joan Kuriansky, Executive Director of Wider Opportunities for Women. “If we are truly going to see a radical reduction in the number of Americans who are unable to meet their most basic needs: shelter, food, housing and health care, our federal policies, from taxes to education and wages, must be realigned. We can begin by making a commitment to infuse federal and state economic and social policies with the goal of not just moving low- income women and families out of the poverty but into true economic security”, Kuriansky said.

####

OCU School of Law Tele-Conference Oct 5

2006-10-04T13:50:00.000-07:00

MEDIA ADVISORY

Oct. 3, 2006

OCU School of Law to Participate in Tele-Conference on Guantánamo

Program free, open to the public October 5

Oklahoma City University School of Law joins more than 300 law schools Oct. 5 for a televised conference on Guantánamo: How Should We Respond?, a live broadcast that takes an in-depth look at the U.S. government’s detention of suspected terrorists in Guantánamo, Cuba.

The nine-hour broadcast is sponsored by Seton Hall University School of Law and is inspired by the teach-ins of the 1960s. Educators will join journalists, military officers, theologians, human rights activists, and detainee lawyers and released detainees.

Tagged a modern-day teach-in by its sponsors, the program will be carried in 46 states and the District of Columbia. About 80 percent of the nation’s law schools are participating including OCU and the University of Oklahoma College of Law.

OCU School of Law will stage the broadcast in the Homsey Family Moot Courtroom in Sarkeys Law Center from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Oct. 5. The program is free and open to the public. The program also will be available via high-quality video streams through the Seton Hall Web site.

Efforts at OCU are spearheaded by the school’s American Constitution Society. For more information, e-mail ACS President Tara Tabatabaie at ttabatabaie.stu@okcu.edu, or visit www.okcu.edu/law or http://law.shu.edu/guantanamoteachin

Commission on the Status of Women Garners National Award, Gains Membership on National Board

2006-10-02T23:31:00.000-07:00

Commission on the Status of Women Garners National Award, Gains Membership on National Board

For Immediate Release

STILLWATER— The Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women (OCSW) was presented with the Outstanding Achievement Award for its Oklahoma Women’s Almanac at the National Association of Commissions for Women (NACW) recent 37th annual convention in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Another honor for the OCSW, Bernice Compton Mitchell of Stillwater, a former chair and current member of the OCSW, was elected to a two-year term on the NACW Board of Directors. Mitchell was one of seven national board members elected or re-elected at the NACW convention.

The Oklahoma Women’s Almanac, which documents the achievements of Oklahoma women, was recognized as an exemplary and innovative project and a model of excellence for other commissions to follow. The Almanac is a project of the OCSW and the Women’s Archive at Oklahoma State University. It is the first comprehensive reference work on the women of Oklahoma.

The book is edited by R. Darcy, Regents Professor of Political Science & Statistics at Oklahoma State University, and Jennifer Paustenbaugh, Associate Dean of the Oklahoma State University Libraries, Puterbaugh Professor of Library Service and Director of the Women's Archives at OSU. Paustenbaugh is also chair of the OCSW.

Paustenbaugh said, “The annual NACW convention is an opportunity to strengthen our coalitions, expand knowledge on issues, gain expertise and skills in effective commission operations and institute and implement the programs that will reflect the issues of urgency today. We are also providing strong representation for Oklahoma. It demonstrates that this state recognizes the important challenges that face women today and that they are strongly committed to addressing those challenges.”

The convention brought together women’s commissions from across the country to focus on the theme, “Making it REAL – Respect – Equality – Achievement - Leadership.” Attending the convention to represent Oklahoma were Commissioner Bernice Mitchell of Stillwater, Commission Chair Jennifer Paustenbaugh of Stillwater, Commissioner Anita Norman of Perry, and Commission Advisory Council Member Kathy Huston of Stillwater.

The National Association of Commissions for women is a nonpartisan membership organization composed of regional, state, county and local commissions created by government to improve the status of women. Information can be found at www.nacw.org. For information on women’s commissions in the community, contact Jennifer Paustenbaugh, chair of the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women, at 405-744-9778.

Ann Cody Promotes Financial Courses for high School

2006-10-02T23:25:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Sasha Bradley, House Media
Capitol: (405)557-7422

Contact: State Rep. Ann Coody
Capitol: (405) 557-7398
Lawton: (405) 330-3976

Financial Courses Needed in High Schools

OKLAHOMA CITY -In 2003 Oklahoma ranked in the top six states in the nation for highest level of bankruptcy and over 30,000 Oklahomans relied on food stamps.

To reduce those statistics, State Rep. Ann Coody said it is time to catch the state's youth at an early age and teach them financial basics before they too find themselves drowning in debt.

At Coody's request, members of the House Common Education Committee met this week to conduct a legislative study to consider adding money management curriculum in Oklahoma schools.

"Debt problems and bankruptcy are facing too many of Oklahoma's young people right out of college because they have never learned how to financially budget their lives," said Coody, R-Lawton. "It is essential for students to understand personal finance if they are going to succeed in life and the best way to make that happen is through education in our public schools."

State Sen. Jolley spoke on the issue, agreeing classes should be taught in high schools.

"Any personal finance economics course has to be rigorous and relevant to the world in which these kids are going to live. It can't be just how to balance a checkbook. It has to include financial budgeting and planning, calculating both simple and compound interest, understanding basic financial products and their advantages and the dangers of overextending your debt limit," said Jolley, R-Edmond. "The curriculum that is offered in Oklahoma high schools needs to meet the new "three R's" of rigor, relevance and relationships. The addition of this course would be a major step forward in providing that type of curriculum for Oklahoma's future."

Dr. Sue Lynn Sasser from the Oklahoma Council on Economic Education, which develops and provides financial literacy curriculum for schools, said the material and training is out there -it simply needs to be implemented in the classroom.

Some teachers, concerned about students' lack of budget knowledge, are already taking that next step and teaching students about personal finance.

Lori Kennedy-Goodbary, a consumer science teacher for Guthrie High School, educates her students on financially responsibility. She makes students clock in and out of her class every day as if they are working a real job. Each student gets an imaginary wage of $10 an hour and must set up a budget as if they were living on their own and having to pay all bills. At the end of the semester the students have to come to her with a proposal/budget on purchasing a car. The car has to be within in their means and allow them to continue to live comfortably, pay their bills and put money into savings.

"The students who have her class will now have the knowledge to live a good life - and a good life without huge amounts of credit card debt or auto loans," said Coody. "This is something all students should learn before it is too late."

American teens (age 12-15) spend more than $100 a week and 20 percent have at least one credit card. The average college senior has over $7,000 in debt, four credit cards and no job.

Currently, the Oklahoma Center for Economic Education provides teacher's with free, hands-on training on financial literacy. Sasser said the OCEE also places a financial literacy exercise for teachers to use in the classroom in The Oklahoman Wednesday edition.

With numerous representatives from the school system, Oklahoma Banker's Association, Oklahoma Society of CPA's, Graumann Investment Advisors and many other financial services now supporting her proposal, Coody said she hopes to get the Legislature to require financial literacy courses in the classroom next year.

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Ask Senator Coburn to Remove his Hold on the Breast Cancer and Environmental Research Act of 2006

2006-09-20T09:04:00.000-07:00

Background:
The Breast Cancer and Environmental Research Act (S. 757), in spite of having 66 Senate co-sponsors and 99 Senators agreeing to pass the bill by unanimous consent, is being held up by one Senator's objection - Oklahoma Senator Tom Coburn.

NBCC's grassroots have worked hard for more than six years to educate members and gain support for this bill. As a result, in the 109th Congress, we were successful in garnering the support of an overwhelming majority of both the Senate and House for this important legislation that could lead to discoveries in preventing breast cancer. 66 Senators and 254 Representatives have co-sponsored this bill! The Senate HELP Committee voted unanimously for S. 757.

Action Needed:
We are asking you to 1) call Senator Coburn and deliver the message below and 2) forward this information to family, friends, associates -- as many Oklahoma residents as possible -- urging all of them to call Senator Coburn's Washington office with the message below.

Oklahoma Message:
As an Oklahoma constituent, I am calling to tell Senator Coburn I strongly support S. 757, the Breast Cancer and Environmental Research Act and I urge him to support Senate passage of this very important legislation.

Calls should go to his Washington office and to the attention of Stephanie Carlton, Senator Coburn's Health LA at 202-224-5754.

Legislation Summary:
The Breast Cancer and Environmental Research Act of 2006, does the following:

o Creates a national strategy to conduct research into the possible links between breast cancer and the environment;

o Establishes a peer-reviewed grant program within the National Institutes of Health to fund collaborative Centers that would work across institutions, across disciplines, and with community organizations to study environmental factors that may cause breast cancer; and

o Includes consumers and researchers in an Advisory Panel that will determine the grant mechanisms, peer review criteria and, once peer review is conducted, make funding allocation recommendations to the Secretary.

second

2006-09-14T15:15:00.000-07:00

US State Dept on Women's Rights

2006-09-07T14:42:00.000-07:00

Paula J. Dobriansky, Under Secretary for Democracy and Global Affairs

Remarks to the Sewall-Belmont House to Commemorate Passage of the 19th Amendment and Victory for Women's Suffrage, Washington, DC, August 24, 2006

I want to thank the Sewall Belmont house for holding the "Taste of Equality" in celebration of a great milestone in the history of our country: the passage of the 19th Amendment, on August 18, 1920, granting women's suffrage.

Just as we can never forget the contributions of the courageous pioneers who fought for women's right to participate in the democratic life of our own country, we should also use this occasion to remember the women around the world today who are deprived of their fundamental human rights and live under oppressive regimes.

As Americans, we can appreciate the role of women in extending the benefits of liberty, justice, education, and freedom to others, because of the courage and determination of women activists and suffragists who came before us.

Women like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony, who mobilized and inspired others who fought peacefully but effectively for women's equality. American women of the 21st century continue to reap the benefits of their long struggle. There were also strong women behind the scenes, whose voices were not heard publicly, but who had a powerful impact. They were a force in our nation's history right from its founding -- women like Abigail Adams, who implored her husband to "Remember the ladies," and warned: "If particular care and attention is not paid to the ladies, we are determined to foment rebellion, and will not hold ourselves bound by any laws in which we have no voice or representation."

It would take 130 years from Abigail Adams' time to reach the tipping point that would break down barriers to women's suffrage and grant women the right to a full voice in our democracy. But that day did come, and today women are leaders in all aspects of our society -- from Secretary of State, to CEO, to Senator.

Sadly, this is not true for all women. The denial of women's voices and basic rights remain the norm in way too many places. The promotion of democracy is the focal point of American foreign policy, and the advancement of women's human rights is integral to this mission. As Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice often says when talking about the importance of women in democratic
transformation: "Half a democracy is not a democracy."

No nation can achieve its full economic, cultural, and political potential by neglecting 50% of its human capital. By investing in women, we are investing in a brighter, more hopeful and more peaceful world.

As President Bush said on International Women's Day in March 2006, "Across the world, the increasing participation of women in civic and political life has strengthened democracies. A democracy is strong when women participate in the society."

As was the case with our own founding mothers, women who are denied their rights are refusing to accept this second-class status. They are standing on the frontlines demanding progress and change -- in many cases, for their fellow men as well as for themselves, in parts of the world where both women and men, are denied democracy and liberty.

More women are daring to break down barriers, leading the way to prosperity, freedom, and justice. They are overcoming obstacles of culture, history, and even law to run their own businesses, schools, and non-governmental organizations, and to serve in Parliaments and governments.

We admire the women of Afghanistan for their courage, resilience, and entrepreneurship. They are taking their rightful place in society and writing a new chapter in their nation's history. They are transforming the economic, political, and cultural landscape and engaging in a newly emerging democracy.

In this connection, I am privileged to co-chair the U.S.-Afghan Women's Council, a public-private partnership dedicated to this vital goal, along with the Afghan Ministers of Foreign Affairs and of Women's Affairs. This group brings together government, corporate, academic, and NGO leaders to mobilize talent and resources for concrete projects benefiting Afghan women that might otherwise be missed.

Since its creation by President Bush and Afghan President Karzai at their very first meeting, in January 2002, the Council's programs have helped hundreds of Afghan women and girls obtain literacy and vocational courses, teacher training, better health care, micro credits for start-up small businesses, and other necessities of modern life that we tend to take so much for granted.

These are the building blocks that translate guarantees of equal civil and political rights for women from paper into practice. In just a few weeks, in October, I look forward to another of my annual trips to Kabul to lead the Council's delegation. If you care to check out the Council's website -- or even better, become involved in its work -- I am confident that you will be as
inspired as I am by these talented and courageous Afghan women.

On another front, we are humbled by the women of Iraq, who remain fiercely committed to democratic freedom, and who defy the daily threat of terrorism to fight for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous future. They are ministers, parliamentarians, journalists, business leaders, teachers, doctors, and NGO leaders who want to build a better life for their families, and who
emphatically reject the oppression of the past. Iraqi women may be our best hope for forming networks and finding common ground across the bitter sectarian lines that threaten to divide the country.

My own office oversees the Iraqi Women's Democracy Initiative, which over the past two years has provided nearly ten million dollars in grants to NGOs for the specific purpose of empowering these brave women to participate fully in their nascent democracy. Successful projects have included voter education, leadership training, professional workshops for women candidates, delegations to major UN and other international meetings, and management courses for aspiring women civil society organizers and entrepreneurs. Through these programs, we have helped literally thousands of Iraqi women gain the skills, the contacts, and the confidence they need to play their proper part in politics, community associations, and public life as a whole.

Many of the women in Iraq's Parliament -- who by law amount to almost a third of all its Members have benefited from these efforts. The same is true for Iraq's Cabinet Ministers who are women, with portfolios that have included the Ministries of Public Works, of Human Rights, and of the Environment, as well as of Women's Affairs.

Despite the very difficult security environment in Iraq, we and they remain determined to persevere in the cause of democracy and equal rights. Our projects are continuing, with another 4.5 million dollars slated for this Initiative this year -- above and beyond all the other U.S. assistance for Iraqi men, women, and children. In addition, we have established a Gift Fund to encourage public-private partnerships for projects serving the special needs of Iraqi women.

We see women of Iran on the frontlines of protest, demanding an end to oppression and tyranny, and calling for democracy, justice, and dignity -- at tremendous personal risk. This year, the U.S. Government announced a significant expansion of funding -- rising to approximately 87 million dollars -- for programs supporting democracy and civil society in Iran. We believe that Iran's women can be a powerful force for positive change in this regard.

Sadly, the Iranian regime continues to resist this tide, recently even going so far as to close down the human rights NGO led by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Shirin Ebadi -- the first Muslim woman ever to achieve this great honor. Yet Iran's own history suggests that its peoples' desire for freedom will rise again and again, and that no level of repression can ever extinguish it.

We are proud to see the women of Kuwait participating in their first parliamentary election after having won the right to vote and run for office a year ago. While they did not win parliamentary seats this time around, they are having a real impact on the political and democratic process in Kuwait. Their commitment and passion are serving as a model and beacon of hope throughout the Arab Gulf region. The State Department's Middle East Partnership Initiative, which has funded approximately 300 million dollars in projects promoting reform in the region over the past three years, is proud to have assisted this progress.

We have done this by working with local groups on civic education, electoral reform, and candidate training -- and also on such basic needs as literacy programs and small business loans for women and girls. There is progress we can be proud of -- and also, of course, much more work to be done.

The people of Chile, Germany, and Liberia freely elected women for the highest office this past year, and Jamaicans chose their first female prime minister. In Rwanda, nearly half of the members of parliament are women. And women are now holding more parliamentary seats in nations like Morocco and Jordan and Tunisia.

In El Salvador -- a country with its first female vice president -- women are challenging the status quo in the workplace, making up most of the labor force in a key sector of the garment industry. They are using their earnings to invest in their children, spending on education and healthcare.

Throughout the developing world, women are proving successful recipients of micro credit and microfinance, and making tremendous gains on the economic front. The sound financial decisions they make benefit society at large, underscoring the need to work in partnership with the private sector to help more women, particularly in developing and transitional countries, gain access to resources and opportunities to gain economic strength. And the payback rate on these loans to women is almost always much higher than it is for men: typically around 90%, or even higher.

We mark the occasion of women's suffrage and political freedom at a time when turmoil in the Middle East is causing some to question the conviction that democracy and freedom are universal aspirations, including for Muslim societies. It is easy to feel discouraged amid the daily reports of violence and conflict, and there is clearly much work to be done. Yet, as we have seen in Iraq, Afghanistan, Rwanda, and Liberia, when women are empowered, they bring a tremendous resilience in emerging from conflict and devastation to building peace and democracy and countering extremism.

Now more than ever, we need to harness the untapped, collective power of women in our efforts to promote democratic transformation.

We must encourage and empower women to become forces for change, by working in partnership, building networks, and finding common ground to achieve universal aspirations for peace, freedom, justice, and equality. Women are not victims, they are untapped leaders.

They are the best hope to ending undemocratic regimes from Burma to Belarus, Cuba to North Korea, Iran to Zimbabwe.

On this occasion of the anniversary of the 19th Amendment, we are reminded of America's strong commitment to freedom, democracy and women's rights.

Released on September 6, 2006

***********************************************************
See http://www.state.gov/g/wi/ for International Women's Issues

Biofuels

2006-08-30T07:33:00.000-07:00

Biofuel Experts Crop Up in Oklahoma Conference will Highlight Research, Funding and Development in Alternative Fuels

NORMAN, Okla. -- Farmers and ranchers will be the cornerstone of the emerging biofuel industry and are wondering how soon they will be able to sell a dedicated energy crop. Abundant native grasses and substantial research efforts in alternative fuels position Oklahoma to emerge as a leader in biorefining. With a net energy output more than four times that of corn ethanol, investors and policy makers are turning more attention to Oklahoma Switchgrass and other agricultural products as attractive sources of biofuel.

The emerging Oklahoma biofuel industry is the subject of Grow: The Oklahoma Governor's Conference on Biofuels October 3-4, 2006 at the University of Oklahoma in Norman.

James Woolsey, former director of the Central Intelligence Agency will address the relationship between national security, dependence on foreign oil and the development of alternative transportation fuels. Other speakers include leading researchers in agricultural feedstock development and refining technologies, federal and local officials and representatives from the biotechnology, auto and petroleum industries.

Attendees will be updated on the latest news and developments in the biofuel industry:

~ The Oklahoma Biofuels Initiative
~ Report on the ongoing Oklahoma biomass resource study
~ Noble Foundation's development of a dedicated energy crop
~ Biorefinery construction in Oklahoma
~ Federal and state initiatives for biomass and biofuel production
~ Petroleum and automotive industries' commitment to alternative fuels
~ Impacts and opportunities for fleet managers, end users and marketers
~ Advances in feedstock conversion technology

"Oklahoma has a strong agricultural sector and its universities have a long and distinguished history in agricultural research and development," said David Fleischaker, Secretary of Energy, State of Oklahoma. "The fusion of agriculture, biotechnology and energy industries creates an opportunity for our state in the emerging biofuel sector. This conference brings together farmers, researchers, and industry experts from transportation, biorefining and fuel retail; those who play a critical role in creating a biorefining sector in Oklahoma."

Governor Brad Henry is pleased to welcome the following speakers: James Woolsey, former director of the Central Intelligence Agency; Dr. John Ferrell, Office of Biomass Programs, United States Department of Energy; Thomas Dorr, Under Secretary for Rural Development, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture; Cynthia Riley, technology manager, Biomass Program, National Renewable Research Laboratory; Lou Burke, manager of Alternative Energy & Programs, ConocoPhillips; Dr. Ray Huhnke, professor, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, Oklahoma State University; Dr. Lance Lobban, director and Francis Winn Chair, School of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Oklahoma; Anna Rath, director of business development, Ceres-Inc.; Dr. Joe Bouton, Noble Foundation; Dr. David Bransby, Auburn University; Dr. Paul Zorner, Diversa; Maurice Hladik, marketing director, Iogen; Glenn English, CEO, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and former Oklahoma Congressman; Brent Kisling, State Director, U.S. Dept of Agriculture; Shelley N. Fidler, Principal, Van Ness Feldman Attorneys at Law; Robert Babik, Director, Vehicle Emission Issues, General Motors Corporation; and others.

Registration is $20. For more information or registration, visit www.GrowOK.com or call 1-800-203-5494. The Oklahoma Governor's Conference on Biofuels is presented by the Office of the Secretary of Energy, State of Oklahoma, in collaboration with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture and the Office of the Secretary of Environment, State of Oklahoma.

Editor's note: For more information, to attend the conference or to receive additional media materials, please call Anglin Public Relations at (405) 840-4222. Materials available include: conference logo, photos of speakers, a map of research and biorefinery locations across Oklahoma, a graphic depicting the biofuel process and how researchers, farmers, biorefineries and gas stations are interrelated, and (after the conference) presentation summaries and links to podcasts/webcasts of the presentations. Most of these materials will be available in high resolution format on the conference web site at www.growOK.com Call Anglin Public Relations to discuss how your publication can receive same day reports and photos from the conference.

2006-08-18T21:53:00.000-07:00

2006-08-18T20:26:00.000-07:00

2006-08-18T20:21:00.000-07:00

photo 2

2006-08-13T22:00:00.000-07:00

OKInsider

2006-08-13T16:03:00.000-07:00

photo

2006-08-13T16:01:00.000-07:00

2006-08-11T13:02:00.000-07:00

Leadership Oklahoma City 2006-07 Class

2006-08-08T15:51:00.000-07:00

Larry Ball, Hall, Estill, Hardwick, Gable, Golden & Nelson
Janienne Bella, American Red Cross of Central Oklahoma
Suzanne Bockus, community volunteer
James Boggs, MidFirst Bank
Brent Bryant, Oklahoma City Finance Department
Bob Byrne, Boeing Co.
Jerry Church, the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments
Kevyn Colburn, Morris Enterprises
Sherry Dale, Strategix Consulting Group
Cliff Dougherty, McAfee & Taft
Danielle Ezell, 20 Hats
Julie Gamblin, U.S. Federal Aviation Administration Credit Union
Jana Harkins, Mills Biopharmaceuticals
Linda Horn, Total Environment Inc.
Greg Hughes, Tinker Air Force Base
Wendy Jones, Schools for Healthy Lifestyles
Carole Kenner, University of Oklahoma
Mike Knopp, Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation
Nancy Koeper, United Parcel Service of America, Inc.
Kim Leslie, Celebrations! Educational Services
Dahl Luttrell, Business Records Storage LLC
Cindy Mason, Church of the Servant
David Mayfield, Eide Bailly LLP
Stacy Meldrum, Francis Tuttle Technology Center
Mark Nance, American Fidelity Corp.
Kevin Nelson, Nelson and Ferraro
Mike Nordin, McAfee & Taft
Amanda Paliotta, urban development consultant
Toni Parks-Payne, Chesapeake Energy Corporation
Tammy Powell, St. Anthony Hospital
Kay Ray, Foundation Management Inc.
Sally Ray, YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City
Chad Richison, Paycom
Chad Roller, Ekips Technologies Inc.
Eddie Saroch, Sonic Industries
Gary Saunders, Element Fusion
Blair Schoeb, Oklahoma County Department of Training and General Assistance
Sarah Sears, S Design Inc.
John Slay, BancFirst Corporation
Joey Snyder, First Fidelity Bank
Dave Tedford, Cardinal Engineering Inc.
Anne Vermillion, Tronox Incorporated
Penny Voss, Dean McGee Eye Institute
Brian Wall, Oklahoma City University
Shane Wharton, Love's Travel Stops and Country Stores

Understanding Poverty & Ruby Payne

2006-08-08T14:54:00.000-07:00

This is an artlce about Ruby Payne that ran in Education Week May 3, 2006.

Payne’s Pursuit: A former teacher with a message on educating children from poor backgrounds is influencing school leaders anxious to close the achievement gap.

By Bess Keller
Chicago

http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2006/05/03/34payne.h25.html?levelId=1000&levelId=1000

Educators often blink twice when they first glimpse the woman they have come to hear tell them about the effects of poverty in the classroom.

One morning here in March, for instance, the small blonde steps out from behind the podium of a downtown ballroom in stylish alligator boots. At 55, she shows not a trace of hard living.

And yet it would be difficult to find a thinker on poverty and schools with more credibility among school leaders. Or one who matches her influence over the classroom.

Ruby K. Payne is wildly in demand for keynote speeches and seminars at annual conferences like this one hosted by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement. A million copies of her book A Framework for Understanding Poverty are in print. And last year, district leaders looking for solutions paid Ms. Payne’s organization to put on slightly more than 1,000 workshops.

More than ever before, reams of test results confront teachers and administrators with what many have recognized for a long time: Poor children are often shortchanged in schools. The interest in the former teacher’s ideas reflects educators’ craving for a workable remedy, one that is not couched in blame or changes they can’t effect.

And while Ms. Payne’s work is not without controversy and has a scant research base, it has attracted passionate support from educators in schools around the

country. They often say her insights make sense out of their own experience and stick with them long after other pedagogical advice has faded.

Ms. Payne delivers a pointed message. She argues that the lens of economic class, specifically the “hidden rules” that people learn in their family and neighborhood environments, can help educators start consistently connecting with those who do not come from middle-class backgrounds. And she says that teachers need to help students in a less symbol-based home environment learn to process information in the ways formal education demands.

The alternative, she says, are stunted choices for the students and a tremendous waste of human capital. “Communities that do not develop the minds of their children will not have wealth,” she declared in Chicago.

Like her nine books, Ms. Payne’s talks are loose constructions of facts, theories, practical guidance, and anecdotes. She speaks without notes in a kind of honeyed slur that is all her own. She even makes a joke about the accent—no, it’s not Cajun; she was born in Indiana and lives in Texas. But for all the light touch, she is serious about the topic.

To survive in poor communities, Ms. Payne contends, people need to be nonverbal and reactive. They place priority on the personal relationships that are often their only significant resources and rely on entertainment to escape harsh realities. Members of the middle class, in contrast, succeed or fail through the use of paper representations and plans for the future. They value work and achievement.

The worlds collide in school, an institution permeated by middle-class mores, in her view.

But educators who build relationships of mutual respect with students are opening the door to learning even where middle-class resources are lacking, according to Ms. Payne.

On the other hand, teachers must recognize that children from poor families often benefit from explicit instruction and support in areas that could be taken for granted among middle-class students. Those include the so-called unspoken rules, mental models that help learners store symbolic information, and the procedures that it takes to complete an abstract task.

A teacher attentive to the needs of her low-income students fills the day with pointers and checklists. She puts tools for organizing information into her students’ hands, and helps them translate it from its “street” version to its school one. She spells out reasons for learning.

Ms. Payne likes to contrast the behaviors—they come off almost as foibles—of poor parents and rich ones. It helps make the point, she says, that one set of rules isn’t better than another.

A mother with a background of two or more generations in poverty might react to a problem at school by threatening to “whup” the teacher. A wealthy father tries to pull strings with the school board, using a personal connection.

Lately, Ms. Payne’s talks have also addressed the criticism heating up in university circles. Some scholars have taken her to task for playing to stereotypes of the poor, failing to recognize the role that economic and social structures, including schools, play in perpetuating poverty, and ignoring poverty’s intersection with race.

They are also riled about the spread of the trainer’s influence when, as Iowa State University education professor Nana Osei-Kofi recently wrote, Ms. Payne’s best-known book “does not have sufficient merit academically to warrant scholarly critique.”

It does not help in these circles that Ms. Payne is an unabashed proponent of the federal No Child Left Behind Act, which she sees as a necessary part of honing the nation’s competitive edge, or that she has parlayed a pastiche of mostly other people’s ideas into a booming cottage industry.

“The majority of people in poverty are absent from her work,” charges Paul C. Gorski, an education professor at Hamline University in St. Paul, Minn. “The notion that there is a culture of poverty is questionable at best.”

Ms. Payne, who holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Loyola University in Chicago, says much of the criticism revolves around her research base, which is largely her observations—in her words, “a 32-year case study.” She tells her audiences that there is nothing wrong with studying poverty as the outcome of exploitation in particular or political and economic structures in general, as many scholars do. It’s just not the way she does it.

There have been a few attempts to size up statistically the worth of some of Ms. Payne’s ideas. A systemwide plan based on approaches she and her consultants devised has been tried in the 10,000-student East Allen, Ind., schools with generally positive results, as measured by a study made for aha! Process Inc., Ms. Payne’s business. Other in-house studies have measured the effects of Payne-style undertakings in an Arkansas charter school and that of a supplemental reading program that aha! Process bought and markets.

Still, Ms. Payne says she is mulling a lawsuit against Mr. Gorski for allegedly violating her copyright. Mr. Gorski, for his part, calls talk of a suit “saber rattling” and denies any possible copyright infringement.

Despite what her audiences usually assume, Ms. Payne grew up middle-class and Mennonite in Indiana and Ohio. She had her first brush with poverty as a student at Goshen College: The Mennonite school’s service requirement landed her in Haiti for three months.

But a more significant exposure came when the high school English teacher married at 23 into a family of straitened circumstances. The marriage, which produced a son and lasted until two years ago, also introduced her to the society of the wealthy when her husband took a job in Chicago as a bond trader.

In the suburbs of Chicago, Ms. Payne eventually went to work as an elementary school principal in the affluent Barrington, Ill., district.

Returning to Texas in 1992, she signed on as the director of professional development for the 18,000-student Goose Creek district in Baytown, near Houston.

In 1995, she penned the first version of Framework in a month, after an assistant principal asked her to put down the ideas that had been so helpful to her teachers. Using a credit card, Ms. Payne paid for the book to be printed and started giving the volumes away. A year later, the requests for training were so numerous she took a leave of absence.

Today, the business she founded in 1996 and continues to head publishes 40 different books, videos, and related products and occupies five low-slung buildings in Highlands, Tex. Five of the books have been co-written by Ms. Payne with experts who have extended her basic ideas into the realms of the workplace, social welfare, charitable giving, and education for the gifted. She employs 25 and provides work for 50 consultants.

The dispute over the value of Ruby Payne's ideas seems to be taking place far from the trenches of public education. There, the opinion is largely pro-Payne.

When the Hamilton County, Tenn., district launched a project five years ago to turn around its nine lowest-performing elementary schools, local school leaders chose Ruby Payne as the first of several A-list consultants to speak to a gathering of the faculties. Since then, two administrators in the district, which includes Chattanooga, have joined the ranks of the 1,400 trainers Ms. Payne’s group has certified.

One is Natalie Elder, the principal of Hardy Elementary School, where in the past four years students have shown among the greatest improvement on state tests of any school in the state. Teachers in her school are studying Ms. Payne’s Framework together.

“It is the most powerful thing to me that you can give a teacher who has not really worked in an urban setting,” says Ms. Elder, who, like almost all of her students, is black. “It brings into focus the kids they are serving.”

Kathleen Flanagan, a teacher at an elementary school in Columbia, Md., was so excited by what she heard at a 2004 seminar conducted by Ms. Payne that she called her sister and urged her to drop what she was doing and get to the talk.

Ms. Flanagan had been puzzling over why a mother would storm into school and berate a teacher over what seemed like a minor incident. What if the mother had been unable to protect her child from abuse meted out by, say, a live-in boyfriend? She might show she does love her baby by coming into school and reaming out the teacher because it’s a safe environment, Ms. Payne suggested.

It was an “aha” moment for the teacher, who is white and grew up in a middle-class house. “Once you are able to look at even a few of these events and say, ‘Oh my gosh, I’d do that also; this makes sense,’ you have a kind of empathy you couldn’t have before,” Ms. Flanagan said.

A workshop on Ms. Payne’s ideas seven years ago near the start of his career had a similar effect on John M. Holland, a Head Start teacher in Richmond, Va.

“For a teacher to move from seeing their students as having no ‘home training’ to seeing their students as better at some skills than they are themselves because of their ‘home culture’ is a really powerful experience,” the nationally certified teacher wrote in an e-mail.

But the enthusiasm is not universal among teachers.

Deborah Bambino, a longtime Philadelphia teacher who is studying for her doctorate in education, says Ms. Payne’s analysis bothered her, though she found “kernels” of truth there. While teachers need to start doing right by poor students in their own practice, as Ms. Payne suggests, it can’t stop there, Ms. Bambino argues.

“If, in fact, all of our kids scored at ‘proficient’ and above, the jobs aren’t there for them,” she says. “To me, that’s a fundamental question.”

Another veteran teacher now in graduate school, Nancy Flanagan (no relation to Kathleen Flanagan), says she has heard colleagues at Michigan State University disparage Ms. Payne’s work as “simplistic and judgmental.”

And yet, “I think that speaks more to the disconnect between theory and practice,” Ms. Flanagan asserted in an email.

“Her insights help teachers deal with real situations.”

2006-08-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

The Prayer Breakfast is an interfaith gathering featuring religious leaders from around the metro focusing on our role in supporting the family and protecting our children. Guest presenter Dr. Peter DeBenedittis, one of America's leading experts on media education and prevention, will speak on media literacy and Internet safety. The event is free of charge and open to the public with breakfast being served.

The conference will continue through the afternoon with an educator’s luncheon and seminar addressing the role of teachers and administrators in protecting students from harmful Internet use. The luncheon will begin at 11:30 a.m. and conclude at 1:00 p.m. located at the Phillip’s Pavilion on the grounds of the Governor’s Mansion. Sponsored by Sonic, America's Drive In, this event will feature DeBenedittis leading the group in interactive breakout sessions and tools for protecting their classrooms and students. For reservations or more information on the educators lunch, please contact Kate Thompson at the First Lady’s office by phone at (405) 522-8809 or by e-mail at kate.thompson@gov.ok.gov.

The day will conclude with a special Family Night at St. Luke’s and is open to parents, children and youth at 7:00 p.m. The night’s program will include a special presentation by DeBenedittis geared towards middle school and high school youth and parents, as well as entertainment and activities for the children and youth. Again, childcare will be provided for the families of St. Luke's members.

Reservations are preferred for both the Prayer Breakfast and Family Night and can be made by contacting St. Luke’s by phone at (405) 232-1371 or by e-mail at info@stlukesokc.org.

50 Most Powerful Oklahomans

2006-07-15T09:18:00.000-07:00

# 1 - Christy Everest (CEO/Chairman, Oklahoma Publishing Company),
# 2 – David Boren (President, University of Oklahoma),
# 3 – Larry Nickols (CEO, Devon Energy),
# 4 – Aubrey McClendon (CEO, Chesapeake Energy),
# 5 – Brad Henry (Governor of Oklahoma),
# 6 – Jim Inhofe (US Senator),
# 7 – George Kaiser (Chairman, BOK),
# 8 – Luke Corbett (CEO, Kerr-McGee),
# 9 - Tom Cole (US Congressman, 4th District ),
# 10 – Clay Bennett (CEO, Dorchester Capital),
# 11 – Mick Cornett (Mayor, Oklahoma City),
# 12 – Tom Love (CEO, Love’s Country Stores),
# 13 – Dave Bialis (VP, Cox Communications),
# 14 (Tie) – Fred Hall (Chairman, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce),
# 14 (Tie) - Burns Hargis (Vice Chairman, BOK),
# 16 – Gene Rainbolt (Chairman, BancFirst),
# 17 – David Thompson (Publisher, The Oklahoman),
# 18 – Robert Lorton (CEO, Tulsa World),
# 19 – George Records (Chairman, MidFirst Bank),
# 20 – Tom Coburn (US Senator),
# 21 – Mary Fallin (Lt. Governor of Oklahoma),
# 22 – Tom McDaniel (President, Oklahoma City University),
# 23 – Lee Allan Smith (CEO, Oklahoma Events),
# 24 – Stanley Hupfeld (CEO, Integris Health Center),
# 25 – Ed Martin (President, Ackerman-McQueen),
# 26 – Cliff Hudson (CEO, Sonic Corporation),
# 27 - Ernest Istook (US Congressman, 5th District),
# 28 – David Green (CEO, Hobby Lobby),
# 29 – David Rainbolt (CEO, BancFirst),
# 30 – Ed Kelley (Editor, The Oklahoman),
# 31 – George Nigh (Former Governor of Oklahoma),
# 32 – Todd Hiett (Speaker, State House of Representatives),
# 33 – Bob Funk (CEO, Express Companies),
# 34 – Andy Coats (Dean, OU College of Law),
# 35 – Drew Edmondson (Attoenry General, State of Oklahoma),
# 35 – Bob Stoops (Head Football Coach, University of Oklahoma),
# 37 – Mike Anderson (CEO, Presbyterian Health Foundation),
# 38 - Steve Moore (CEO, OG&E),
# 39 – Scott Meacham (State Treasurer of Oklahoma),
# 40 – Roger Webb (President, University of Central Oklahoma),
# 41 – Roy Williams (President/CEO – Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce),
# 42 – Dick Rush(President, State Chamber),
# 43 – Bill Cameron (Chairman, President, CEO, American Fidelity Corp.),
# 44 – David Schmidly (President, Oklahoma State University),
# 45 – Bob Anthony (Commissioner, Corporation Commission),
# 46 – Glenn Coffee (Republican Leader, Oklhoma State Senate),
# 47 – Don Cain (President, Oklahoma AT&T),
# 48 – Kathy Taylor (Mayor of Tulsa),
# 49 - Robert Lorton III (Publisher, Tulsa World),
# 50 – Kirk Humphreys (Former Mayor of Oklahoma City).