AAUW MANHATTAN BRANCH MEETING MINUTES
ANNUAL WRAP-UP AND CELEBRATION
May 14, 2018
Meadowlark Hills Community Room, 6:00 p.m
Welcoming Remarks: President Mary Stamey welcomed members and guests to the 98th year-end meeting of AAUW. Participants were encouraged to continue bidding on auction items to help raise money for branch operating expenses.
Business Meeting: President Mary Stamey called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. The AAUW Manhattan Branch Minutes of April 9, 2018 were approved as distributed. The Monthly Profit and Loss Statement for April 2018, prepared by Shauntia Rippee, showed an income of $334.50, expenses $314.00, and profit of $20.50, and was approved with clarification. Copies of the new AAUW informational brochure developed by Julie Thompson were available for review. Jennifer Green will be presenting the Health Department budget to the County Commission on May 17 at 3 p.m.
Mark you calendars for the following dates:
- 2018 Board Retreat, June 23, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., KSU Research Foundation Complex
- 2018-2019 Board Meetings: 4 p.m., Vistas on first Monday of month
- 2018-2019 Branch Meetings: September 10, October 8, November 12, December 10, January 14, February 11, March 11, April 8, and May 13.
Celebration: President Stamey opened the celebration by noting our theme (AAUW Is . . .), and the “wheel of initiatives” (AAUW national priorities) on the branch’s yearbook cover. In addition, the AAUW Manhattan Branch has a long history of accomplishments in our community, including sponsoring a series of lectures and art exhibitions at K-State in the 1930’s that lead to the formation of the Friends of Arts as mentioned on a plaque at the Beach Museum of Art.
AAUW State Convention. Tresa Landis, newly elected state AAUW Funds officer, reported on the AAUW State Convention on April 28, 2018 in Wichita. Items highlighted were 1) the excellent presentations by Dr. Kristina Haahr, Wichita State University on “Mental Health Matters: Advocating for Today by Understanding Our History” and Lynn Stephen, founding member of Women for Kansas, 2) election of 2018-2020 officers, 3) proposed bylaw amendments, and 4) branch awards. AAUW National no longer sends an individual to state conventions with less than 50 attendee. Instead, a video entitled Beyond Aspirations: AAUW’s Future was viewed that gave new directions, changes in dues, and streamlines in operations. Three proposed bylaw amendments are: 1) implementing a staggered-term model for the AAUW Board of Directors, 2) allowing up to five nonmembers to serve on the Board, and 3) eliminating the degree requirement for membership to increase equity. There are now five branches in Kansas (El Dorado, Manhattan, Newton, Shawnee Mission, and Wichita). The Manhattan branch received a AAUW Kansas Star Branch award and was recognized for both Overall and Per Capita Giving in 2017. The 2019 State Convention will be held on April 27, 2019 in Lindsborg.
Overview of Year’s Activities. President Stamey summarized some of the branch activities, e.g., talks on keeping the public healthy by Ellyn Mulcahy (September) and Tracy Scott (November), the successful third annual celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD, March 8), three graduate student scholarships, recruiting success at the community fair and other meetings, enhancements on the branch’s Facebook page and website, active interests groups (Great Decisions and Serendipity), donations to Grow Green, attendance at the AAUW State Conference, and Dr. Amanda Gaulke’s talk on student loan repayment.
Branch Scholarships. Claudia Jones, Scholarship Committee chair, reported that the branch has six scholarships to award and interviews are still in progress.
Recognition of Outgoing and Continuing Officers. Tresa Landis and Connie Noble were honored for their outstanding service as program vice presidents. Marilyn Bunyan was recognized for her 50+ years of service in many roles, including president, bylaws chair, and director-at-large. Also recognized were the continuing officers: Karen Tinkler, past president; Maurine Pruitt, secretary; and Shauntia Rippee, treasurer.
Installation of New Officers. President Stamey initiated Leena Chakrharti as director-at-large (Karen McCulloh was absent); and Julie Thomas, Usha Reddi, and Mary N’gang’a as vice presidents of programs. In gratitude, all of the outgoing, continuing, and new-elected officers were presented a red rose.
Honoring Our Champions. Three outstanding branch members were honored for their service and given a lovely potted plant:
- Outstanding Branch Member – Annelise Nguyen for developing a student group on campus, serving as a program speaker, assisting with IWD, and improving women’s health.
- Honored Gift Honoree – Joan Strickler for serving in a variety of offices, including president, archives, and bylaws committees; being an outstanding mentor, and promoting health concerns for women and children in her work. The branch will donate $50 to AAUW national in her honor.
- President’s Award – Connie Noble for having a “sure I’ll help” attitude, serving in various branch positions, making others feel comfortable, and working behind the scenes.
The event ended with silent auction winners paying for their items. A special thanks was given to everyone for a great year.
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara Gatewood
Acting Secretary, AAUW Manhattan (KS) Branch
AAUW MANHATTAN BRANCH MEETING MINUTES
April 9, 2018
First Congregational Church, 700 Poyntz Avenue, 6:00 p.m
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: President – Mary Stamey
Program Dr. Amanda Gaulke, Assistant Professor of Economics at Kansas State University spoke about The Dynamics of Student Loan Repayment. The research was done by Dr. Amanda Gaulke and Chris Reynolds. The research reported here was supported by the Spencer Foundation. Views are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency or the U S Department of the Treasurer.
Research does show that Student Loan Debt is exceeding Credit Card debt in great amounts. Among other items the researchers studied was the Motivation for Student Loan Repayment, Related Literature on Gender differences, Data, Debt Status, Descriptive Statistics, and the Research Question “What are the Dynamics of Student Loan Repayment?”
One Motivation for Student Loan Repayment is that Defaults Rates determine the institution’s eligibility for Title IV financial aid. When a person defaults that impacts the cost of providing the Loans initially. The risk of default does relate to the debt held by the individual. The financial institutions need to understand the risk of students defaulting on their Student Loans.
Related Literature on Gender Differences shows women owe more on their loans 10 years after finishing college. In earlier years after a Student Loan is given, men are more likely to default and in later years women are more likely to default on repayment of their Student Loan.
The Data was taken from random 18 year olds who had a credit report in 2005. The Panel Data was collected from 2005 to 2015.
Debt Statuses is defined as the first day that you fail to make a payment on your Student Loan.
Descriptive Statistics shows that an average student has 4 student loans. They also have Credit Card Debts. Good reasons for non-repayment of Student Loans may include some students have gone back to school or have gone into the military. Actual Default on Student Loans comes often from quitting college. Statistics do show that those who have completed the degree have less defaults on their Student Loans.
Dynamics shows that many students are in default more on Student Loans than on other credit that is given. They may often default only on Student Loans. Why? On Student Loans there is no collateral. On other Loans they can come and get your car or repossess your house. Also you will get your Student Loan Repayment notice many years after it was initially given to you. A pecking order happens often on Repayment of Student Loans. The amount of Student Loan to repay is high on the list but the amount of Credit Card to repay is low on the list.
Students do need to know you cannot declare Student Loans in bankruptcy. In some states the government can garnish wages for repayment of Student Loans, they can keep tax return money for repayment, and they can garnish socials security payment for student loan repayments in some states. In some states you may not be able to renew professional licenses or a driver’s license.
Often unemployment is the cause of non-payment on Student Loans. Many colleges commit fraud to get student to enroll when they offer them Student Loans. Students should know that they can get counseling on payment of Student Loans. For-profit institutions could be bad for many students in getting Student Loans. The Department of Education is now investigating For-profit institutions.
Kansas is doing better than any other state on Student loan Repayment.
Branch Meeting
Barbara Gatewood told about International Week being such a success on campus with several activities coming up during this week. She showed Fiber Art prints given to the Textile Department at K State. The beautiful Fiber Art prints all pertained to women.
League of Women Voters announcement- We will not have Lunch with League in April as it close to the Annual Meeting which is April 20, 2018. On May 17, 2018 at Little Apple Brewery at 11:30 am Lunch with League will have speakers Linda Morse, Karen McCulloh and Usha Reddi who will address Power Women – Women in Activism and what difference women can make in our community.
Grow Green Day was announced by Tresa Landis to be April 20, 2018 at the Atrium at Colony Square.
State Meeting – Saturday April 28th in Wichita, Kansas. Forms were left at each seat by Nancy Bolsen. Tresa Landis announced she is driving and will take anyone who wants to go.
Mary Stamey announced that tomorrow is Equal Pay Day for AAUW members. She also read Equal Pay Day is on different days for various groups of women in our country. You may see the different days celebrated at our AAUW website.
Election of Officers- A big Thank You was given to Pat Hudgins, Dee Dee Brokesh and Marlene verBrugge for working on our Nomination Committee.
Nominations for officers:
President: Mary Stamey 2017-2019
President Elect: ????????? 2018-19 and then president 2019-2021
Vice-President for Programs: Julie Thomas, Mary Ng’ang’a and Usha Redi 2018-2020
Vice-President for Membership: Gail Chalman 2018-2020
Past President: Karen Tinkler 2017-2019
Secretary: Maurine Pruitt
Treasurer: Shauntia Ripee
Director-at-Large: Leena Chakrabarti 2018-2020
Director-at-Large: Karen McCulloh 2018-2020
Nominations were called from the floor- none received.
Marilyn moved nominations cease and those listed be accepted. Connie Noble seconded it. Nominations were accepted.
New officers were recognized.
A great Welcome back was given to Annelise Nguyen from K State University who was doing research on cancer cells in Maryland since October.
Our next AAUW Board meeting will be Monday, May 7, 2018 at 4:00 pm at Vista Drive In.
Our next AAUW Branch meeting will be May 14, 2018 in the Community Room of Meadowlark Hills Retirement Village, 2121 Meadowlark Road. We will have a Silent Auction, Installation of Incoming Leadership, and Member Recognition.
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Maurine Pruitt
AAUW Manhattan (KS) Branch Secretary
AAUW MANHATTAN BRANCH MEETING MINUTES
March 8, 2018
Holiday Inn at the Campus, 1641 Anderson Avenue, 6:00 p.m
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: President – Mary Stamey
Program- We are reminded that the Ten Values of International Women’s Day are Justice-Dignity-Equality-Respect-Empathy-Tenacity-Appreciation-Collaboration-Forgiveness-Hope. Our panelists for the evening were Rebecca Bahlmann, KSU Assistant Professor originally from The United Kingdom and Germany, Chi Ehie, USD 383 Teacher originally from Nigeria, Mary Ng’ang’a, Graphic Artist with GTM Sportswear from Kenya and Madai Rivera KSU Administrator from Mexico. The moderator was City Commissioner Usha Reddi originally from India.
Questions asked:
Share your story about coming to the US; when, from where, why, etc. Include who was the family member deciding to come, how many came, all come at once? how long have you been in the US, etc. Include where you are currently employed.
Rebecca – from Germany is an accomplished photographer. She came in 1994 to the United Kingdom then to the US to study in higher education.
Madai – from Mexico is now in the College of Human Ecology at Kansas State University and came with her parents to the United States while young.
Mary – from Kenya, is a graphic artist who came in 2005 first to Missouri then to Manhattan, Kansas.
Chi – from Nigeria, expressed that it is God’s gift to fulfil our education dreams. She arrived 1989 to the United States. She was first in New York then Missouri and later she and her husband came to Kansas State University. She now teaches students in an elementary school in Manhattan, Kansas.
Compare/contrast home country and US for your education and career, opportunities, marriage, traditions, holidays, women’s rights (health, voting, civil rights).
Chi – Her husband was here first as he had a job already. The move was not difficult. Here she could do what she wanted to do.
Mary – Her parents decided to come to the United States for a better life. In the education area her mother had to take some classes again as some hours would not transfer to Columbia University. Part of what made the move easier was her dad had a friend already here in the United States.
Madai – from Mexico, told that her Aunt Rosa was already here. The family came to Dodge City, Kansas. She could not figure why the green cards that they had to have were called green. They have been pink and now they are white. There is a lot of paper work, and fees to come to the US. Her Dad did not want to come. They had lived in a city in Mexico that had 1.4 million people and they moved to Dodge City, Kansas. She misses home and the big city life. Her Dad was a manager for Coke Cola in Mexico.
Rebecca– came from London which is known for its bad weather. She came for graduate school. She finds the US less chauvinist and women are treated more equally here and in California. She worked for a degree in studio arts. She has lived in New York and many other cities in the US. She did not get a green card through a husband but got it on her own. She has been here since 1994.
Are there ceremonies/holiday traditions that you still-celebrate? What was culture shock?
Mary – Thanksgiving is not celebrated in Kenya. Many here enjoy celebrating Thanksgiving with a cooked turkey. Many people off from work on that day. The weather is a big difference as Kenya has no snow. Junior High student noticed her heavy accent. She had to show people who she was and that they also have an accent when in a different area. The Wedding celebrations are like those at home in Kenya.
Chi –When she came to the US everyone from Nigeria give her advice stating that she needs to be careful as all Americas have guns. At the weddings in Nigeria the husband must pay for a dowry for the bride. A difference is that Thanksgiving is celebrated here which they now also like to celebrate. She had to teach her students that they would be told they have an accent if they are in Africa.
Rebecca – was told to drop her accent. Everyone says “Hello here in Manhattan, Kansas. In the big city they avoid contact with you. She found it unusual that here many eat when they walk around. College shirts not worn in England. It seemed strange to find so many people wearing the college shirts here. Thanksgiving is liked because it is not commercialized.
Madai -Her Dad sold their car while in Mexico. They found no taxis in Dodge City, Kansas. The school system is so different. Uniforms were worn to school in Mexico, not in Dodge City. In Western Kansas she was shocked when she saw her first tumbleweed. The Language is so different. Parents don’t want them to speak Spanglish words. They want the children to keep the Spanish language so it is required that they speak Spanish totally at home. They celebrate Thanksgiving but they mix turkey with Spanish food.
What are your thoughts on the US’S current climate on changing the immigration laws? How would this impact your extended family or friends not in the US but desiring to be in the US?
Rebecca– She knows that the DNA shows everyone’s ancestors came to US. It is hard to get a green card. She had to get a letter from Scotland Yard showing that she had no criminal record. She is definitely against walls being built. People are alike more than they are different
Madai – ditto – She has responsibility to get others informed about immigration laws. The undocumented persons are being treated worse each year in the United States. Some are graduating with 4.0 average every year from colleges. I would ask “What would Jesus do?” She is worried about leaders who think wrong about undocumented students.
Mary – the harsh comment about immigration is totally awful. We need to inform people, don’t be harsh. We need to understand they come to gain skills and education so they can go back and improve situations in their country. A Nobel Prize winner taught many people in African countries. In 2010 40 billion dollars was sent to Africa. People can go back and build real estate. Many though, find that they can live a better life in the United States.
Chi– the harsh comment was unfortunate. All children are very successful in the United States. Nigerians are into education. When speaking about immigration- she has to calm herself down. We can go back home and help them build schools. We can give to orphanages. We have to go to another country and see how things are being done.
Questions from the audience.
What can we do to help?
Rebecca-People in large cities are more welcoming to immigrants. Ask people to come to Thanksgiving. Attend birthdays of immigrant children. Include them in celebrations. In Manhattan we do not branch out to immigrants.
Madai– Show acts of kindness. Use pleasant tone of voices. Smile at people.
Mary– Listen to other people. Do not make judgments.
Chi – Be a close family to others.
Usha – Join a Home Away from Home organization in Manhattan. Host a student. Go to celebrations of others.
How are movements in your countries for women?
Chi – We have a lot to do in Africa, women do not have a voice.
Mary – Political oppression exist greatly.
Madai – Women are just very much starting to be heard. Support the Dream Act.
Rebecca– Germany not as bad as other countries. Women are in politics. Not many women in business. US is still a leader in laws being passed.
Usha– US has freedom of religion and education.
Tresa –We need to put faces with the problems.
Our next AAUW Branch meeting will be April 9, 2018 at the First Congregational Church, 700 Poyntz Avenue, at 6:00 pm. Dr. Amanda Gaulke, Assistant Professor of Economics at Kansas State University will speak on The Dynamics of Student Loan Repayment.
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfull submitted,
Maurine Pruitt
AAUW Manhattan (KS) Branch Secretary
AAUW MANHATTAN BRANCH MEETING MINUTES
February 12, 2018
First Congregational Church, 700 Poyntz Avenue, 6:00 p.m
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: President – Mary Stamey
Mary discussed officers that are needed for 2018-2020 year. We do need a Program or Co-Program Vice Presidents and a Membership Vice President. Other officers will continue serving for the next session.
Fundraiser ideas are needed. Those already brought up are on the last page of the Board minutes. Share your ideas with some of the Board members.
Mary shared that in seeking speakers for our international meeting in March, she has been recommended different people and found that people who have come to America as a Refugee or are Dreamers do not feel free to share their stories due to them or their relatives being sought out by government officials for being deported.
Our guest Mary Nganga was introduced and she shared that she just completed her Masters last May and moved here for work as a Design employee at GTM Sportswear Headquarters here in Manhattan.
Lunch with League (League of Women Voters) will be held Thursday, February 15, 2018 at 11:30 am at Little Apple Brewery with lunch. The cost of lunch is $9.00. The topic is review of changes and approval of the League of Women Voters’ Water Policy.
Program – Tresa Landis announced the Speaker of our Program is Dr. Jennifer Green, Administrative Director of the Riley County Public Health Department. Dr. Green oversees all health department programs and services and also collaborates with state and local community partners. Prior she worked with prevention of teen pregnancy programs in Oklahoma and in Texas working with school districts, faith based institutions and youth. She addressed “To Your Health: Where Does Riley County Rank?” The Riley County Health Department Vision of Healthy Living in a Healthy Community involves promoting and protecting health in the community for all.
Dr. Green used much data to show where Riley County Ranks in Comparison to Douglas, Wyandotte and Geary Counties in regard to the health of our community. She used Data from the Robert Wood Johnson Count Health Ranking to show what Riley County’s Ranking is among Health Factors and Health Outcomes and later showed what our Health Department’s Action Plan involves. Information can be found at http:/www.countyhealthrankings.org. Other data on how children and families are doing county-by-county is shown on 2017 KIDS COUNT at kac.org/kidscount. To see how Kansas kids compare on a nation level you can access datacenter.kidscount.org. Riley County does presently rank 5th in Health Care out of 102 ranked counties. College students and military families are not always included in the rankings. Specifics were not given on what part they were not studied.
Health Factors studied were items such as adult obesity, physically inactive adults, adult smokers, excessive drinking, sexually transmitted infection, etc. Studied also were high school graduations, children in poverty, single parent households, violent crime rates, severe housing problems, access to recreational facilities and many more factors.
Health Outcomes studied were length of life, quality of life, poor physical health days called in, poor mental health days called in and low birth weight. Our rankings show that Riley County ranks low in adult obesity and high in College graduates at 82% compared to Douglas, Wyandotte, and Geary Counties while we, as a college town, ranked high on binge drinking and we ranked high in sexual transmitted infections.
The Action Plan of the Health Department does involve having Care before a Crisis happens
1. Access to coordination of Services is greatly needed. Increase awareness of resources through one complete community directory which has been made now. A Community Care Team is needed so services are coordinated. Funding for a Crisis Stabilization Care Center is needed. We want people to be able to go there rather than wait for a complete crisis and end up being taken to the emergency room. Flint Hills Wellness Coalition will meet February 24th 1-4pm at Pottorf Hall, 1710 Avery Ave, Manhattan, KS. Register by February 19th on flinthillswellness.org or call the Health Department at 785-776-4779 ext 7612. The Northview area will be the focus first. Child care will be the focus on February 27th at the Riley County Health Department.
2. Access to better Mental Health Services is greatly needed.
3. Better Transportation. The bus does go by the health department 4 times a day now. ATA bus has a new route now. More funding is needed for this. Continue to have safe way to get to schools. Provide more proper bike lanes.
Riley County does rank high in many areas but we need to move forward in many areas.
We have high quality of life.
We have 100% of all-day kindergarten.
We are high on the spirit of the community and collaborations.
We have good things and challenges of growth with NBAF (National Bio and Agro defense Facility) being developed.
We do lack affordable, safe housing.
We lack accessible and affordable child care.
We lack good Mental Health care.
Mary announced that our next branch meeting is Thursday, March 8, 2018 (Note change of day and place) at the Holiday Inn at the Campus, 1641 Anderson Avenue, with a dinner. We will have a Panel of Local International Speakers.
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Maurine Pruitt, Secretary
AAUW MANHATTAN BRANCH MEETING MINUTES
January 8, 2018
Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1100 College Avenue, 6:00 p.m
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: President – Mary Stamey had Karen Hummel, Karen Tinkler, Barbara Rees, Nancy Bolsen and Jan Freeby read information about women’s gap in the income field. An example is “the pay gap won’t close for another 124 years – your great, great, great granddaughters might have fair pay.” We must keep working for equal work – equal pay!!! It was noted that the AAUW Elect Her program on campuses helps women in college run for and get offices on campus. This in turn helps those women run for community offices.
Claudia Jones introduced guests Scholarship Winners Angie Mitchell who is in Civil Engineering after spending some time as an art teacher, and Yanli Wang who is studying Human Nutrition with emphasis in herbal studies. Tresa Landis introduced our speaker Elena Aronson as a current Scholarship Winner and Alex Stong as guests. Mary Stamey introduced Reshma Antony, a student in agronomy studying sorghum and corn as a potential member.
Mary Stamey also talked about the Great Decisions book that members of an AAUW group read a chapter from and discuss the topic at each of their meetings. Many great topics are studied such as Russian foreign policy, China foreign policy, etc. She invited all members to come to the meeting and share in the great topics of discussion. This meeting is the 2nd Thursday at 4:00pm at Meadowlark Hills.
Maurine Pruitt announced that Lunch with League with the League of Women Voters will be held the third Thursday in January but the speaker is changed to Vickie James who is speaking on The Flint Hills Wellness Coalition. This will entail local food system issues such as food insecurity, hunger nutrition, local supply, food waste and coordination to solve problems in these areas. All are welcome to join the League at Little Apple Brewery at 11:30 am on January 18, 2018.
Program – Our speaker Elena Aronson, originally from Chicago has worked in the US, London and Israel. She holds a Bachelor of Art in Jewish Studies from Smith College and a Master’s degree in Jewish History from the Jewish Theological Seminary of America and studied history at University of California at Berkeley. She is presently pursuing a Master’s in Public Health. Her goal is to protect society’s youngest members, our children.
As Elena spoke about Gun Violence in the U.S. – A Public Health Crisis she revealed how it does impact public health. She showed a picture of a funeral of a young boy who had been killed by a gun. The people around the coffin were dressed in Power Man suits as he loved the group of Power Men. She showed statistics that on an Average Day 306 people in the United States are killed by a gun. Austin Texas is the only major city in the US without a mass shooting. In 2015, on average, about once a week a toddler shot someone in America. Guns in the house increase the rate of use of firearms used for accidental or wrongful shootings. Public outrage increased after the Florida mass shooting on June 23, 2016.
In December of 2017 lawmakers stepped backwards – They allowed those with concealed carry permits and concealed carry firearms to cross state lines thus allowing those carrying concealed guns to circumvent the stricter laws that some states hold. A suggestion was made that a viral social media post be made that shows the absurdity of our gun laws and compare them to our abortion laws. Kansas has very few restrictions with guns.
- Concealed Carrying (with some restrictions) allows concealed carrying of handguns even on college campuses. No permit/license is required for concealed carry.
- Possession – no restriction. In Kansas and Indiana – you can sell your gun to anyone. Changes are needed. Strictly enforce minimum age for the buying of guns. Have shooting and safety tests.Registration fees for each gun is needed.
You have a right to ask those people you visit “Do you have Safe Storage for your guns? Is it unloaded? Is your ammunition away from the guns?” We must take guns away from those who are mentally unstable. Make guns less accessible – only way to decrease shootings. Elect people who will vote against concealed carry. State Representatives who vote against the concealed carry law have been threatened. Will we have to boycott places who sell the guns? Now there are background checks at a day care on campus of parents and anyone who will pick up a child. NRA ads on TV are so scary that they make you feel you need to carry a gun to protect yourself. We must elect new legislatures who will vote against concealed carrying of a gun on our college campuses. Great program, Elena Aronson!!!
Tresa Landis announced that our next branch meeting is February 12, 2018 at First Congregational Church, 700 Poyntz Avenue, at 6:00 pm. Our speaker Jennifer Green, Director of the Riley County Public Health Department will address “To Your Health: Where Does Riley County Rank?”
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Maurine Pruitt
AAUW Manhattan (KS) Branch Secretary
AAUW MANHATTAN BRANCH MEETING MINUTES
December 11, 2017
First Presbyterian Church, 801 Leavenworth Avenue, 6:00 p.m
Social Time was held first with refreshments and visiting with friends.
Program: Holiday Music Program -The Church Ladies. This group was one of harmony based acoustic production which consisted of three ladies who sang and played several instruments. They included Joan Nelson, Pastor Katie Collins, and Mary Louise Stall. Everyone enjoyed the entire session of Christmas songs. The songs included “Mary’s Child”, “Celtic Christmas Song”, “O Come Emanuel”, “Mary Did You Know?”, “Hot Chocolate”, “Stay Humble and Kind”, and “My Peace”.
After a tremendous Christmas program all members enjoyed a fun gift exchange.
Four new members Becky Ward, Mary Guindon, Karen Hummel and April Grogan were among those present.
Note the change in location of our next branch meeting.
Our next Branch meeting will be on Monday, January 8, 2018 Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1110 College Avenue, at 6:00 pm. The program will be How Gun Violence Impacts Public Health with speaker Elena Aronson, 2017-2018 AAUW Scholarship Recipient pursuing a Master’s in Public Health.
Note the change in day of our next board meeting.
Our Next Board Meeting is Thursday, January 4, 2018 at 4:00 pm at Vista Drive In.
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Maurine Pruitt
AAUW Manhattan Branch (KS) Secretary
AAUW MANHATTAN BRANCH MEETING MINUTES
November 13, 2017
Flint Hills Room, Kansas State University Student Union, 7:00 p.m
Tresa Landis Introduced first our special guests Mayor Linda Morse, Phyllis Fitzgerald and commissioner Usha Reddi. Syndey Carlin was also recognized as a special guest. Tresa then introduced our speaker.
Our speaker Traci Scott has been the 1st Infantry Division regional officer at Fort Riley until recently and is now at Fort Hood with General Paul Funk working with legislators and developing partnerships with universities. Her Bachelor’s degree was in broadcast journalism and political science from Howard University. Her Master’s degree from George Washington University was in Political Management. Traci also worked as a CBS news reporter and has worked with the Afghanistan Reconstruction, operations in Baghdad and at the U.S. Department of Defense. She has worked with 14 different generals in 8 years, she is a civilian working with the army. She plans the itinerary for the generals at many different places.
Traci began her presentation by stating that all views given this evening were not of the Army, they are totally her views on the subject of sexual harassment and sexual assault. After a convention in Washington DC she was riding the train to Arlington when she witnessed a girl being harassed. The girl was stone quiet and shaking terribly. Traci had to tell the girl to move to another car and told the man to quit harassing the young girl. He did quit harassing the young girl. Traci has learned thorough her work that if you See Something you Say Something. You must Find Your Voice.
When she was sexually harassed two different times, once she told only a girlfriend. She had not Found Her Voice. After 40 years old she Found her Voice. She had received bad emails then a note on the car. When he didn’t stop she went to the group on base and spoke out. The harassment did stop. She fought back. The system worked for her. Traci stressed that you must Find Your Voice and help those who haven’t found their voice.
Traci supported her input with much data about sexual harassment and sexual assault. A few of them are listed:
1 out of every 5 college women will be sexually assaulted at some point in their life.
4 out of 5 know their assaulter.
9 out 10 do not report the assault.
Why?
Fear of reprisal (retaliation) 20%
Reported but not to police 4%
My fault often felt – assault is not reported
What can be done?
Perpetrator Find Your Voice Watch Out For One Another
Education Speak Out Verbal Cues
Mentoring Speak Up Body Language
Tell your story
Tell somebody
No body heard her before. Now She is Being Heard
During a question and answer period many thoughts were brought forward. Men often in Control, often they are men you know. Do not give the men the Control and Power. In Riley County there is a backlog on people to doing testing after a sexual assault has been reported. Saline and Geary County are dealing with the cases now. Two nurses in Riley County are now being trained to do the testing and appear in court. If not trained properly or completely the court system will hassle them down completely when they report. There is a new lab on Washburn University Campus. In Riley County the victim does not have to go to the emergency room now. They now go to a place in the maternity ward which is much more private. A person from the audience pointed out that you must Own Your Space. Show that I am not afraid. Be aware of what is around you. If you run plan your route near a police department- have and escape route. Show- I deserve to be here. Project Power Traci also added- tell the person harassing you – I am a Human Being – You can’t trample over me.
Mature Women Must Find Their Voice. This can start with acknowledgement, a smile, a thank you, and please. Use direct eye contact. Take a self-defense class, etc. Start when children are young. Do Find Your Voice!
No formal Branch meeting was held. Members Present: approximately 45
Note the change in location and time of or next branch meeting.
Our next Branch meeting will be on Monday, December 11, 2017 at the First Presbyterian Church, 801 Leavenworth, at 6:00 pm. The program will be Holiday Music Program – The Church Ladies. This group was a big hit last year!!!
Our Next Board Meeting is Monday, December 4, 2017 at 4:00 pm at Vista Drive In
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Maurine Pruitt
AAUW Manhattan (KS) Branch Secretary
AAUW MANHATTAN BRANCH MEETING MINUTES
October 9, 2017
First Congregational Church, 700 Poyntz Avenue, 6:00 p.m
PROGRAM:
Connie Noble introduced Karen Hawes a consultant in the field of Nursing. She is now at K Stat after working as an Instructor at Washburn University and Wichita State University. She received her Masters of Science in Nursing with emphasis in family practice. Her program covered the Title X Family Planning Program: What You Need to Know. She emphasized a major break-through being the LARC (Long Acting Reproductive Contraception) Program for Birth Control among the low income people.
Title X Reproductive Health and Family Planning Program in Kansas provides services such as mammograms, vaccinations, etc. to low income people. In 2012 The Affordable Care Act made this available for hard to reach populations and for everyone in the United States. No proof of citizenship is asked for. Discounts are based on income of the person. Some counties in Kansas collaborate together for services because a 40% match of Federal Funds given is required of the county. Some counties cannot afford the matching funds, the personnel (Registered Nurse) or they lack a large need in the county. Riley County in Kansas has two places providing these LARC services. They are the Kanza Clinic and the Riley County Health Department.
The most popular contraceptives include the IUD (Inter Urinary Device) $200, the Diaphragm $25, and the Birth Control Pills $25 for the written prescription and then the person must pay for each prescription given. With the LARC program the Copper IUD is used by most women. Because this type of contraceptive needs a person’s decision to take it out, it is 99% effective while others are less effective. Sterilization is an option but very, very costly with the anesthesiologist, nurse, etc. being required. Of all the contraceptives in the LARC program the IUDs are most effective even though they cost much more.
The Colorado Family Planning Initiative from 2009 – 2015 was funded by Mrs. Warren Buffet for 27 million dollars. With these types of contraceptives used, Colorado had 50% less pregnancies compared to times prior. When the program discontinued receiving funding in 2016 private agencies worked together with the women of the State and got the money provided. Other states are now using the plan for their Family Planning Programs. Riley County didn’t want the program but 100 people showed up at a commission meeting last year and after hearing the people they accepted funding but are still not accepting spending on certain contraceptives. Work still needs to be done in this area for Riley County.
How do we proceed from here for our Family Planning Program?
1. Women must know that it is a critical decision to have the LARC item, such as the IUD removed.
2. Staying on Birth Control must be the default.
MEMBERS PRESENT: 22 members attended.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: President Mary Stamey
OFFICERS REPORTS:
Past President: Karen Tinkler – no report.
Co-Vice Presidents of Programs: Connie Noble present, Tresa Landis present – see announcements below.
Membership Vice-President: no report.
Secretary: Maurine Pruitt presented the minutes of the last board meeting at the tables for all to read.
Treasurer: Shauntia Ripee present. Placed the following report for every member to read:
Ending Cash Balance September 30, 2017 $ 2,454.51
Director-at-Large: Marilyn Bunyan – no report.
APPOINTED OFFICERS REPORTS:
AAUW Funds: Joan Strickler reported that 250 women are benefited with 3.7 million dollars through the AAUW Funds. A “hat” (bucket) was passed at the meeting October 9, 2017 for the AAUW fundraising project. These funds will be used in fellowships, and grants for our members. They may also be used in Washington DC for legal advocacy and for developing public policy that affects women’s lives. If you write a check to the AAUW Fund, the amount will be tax deductible.
By-Laws: Nancy Bolsen and Marilyn Bunyan – no report.
Public Policy: Jean Lee – absent- no report.
League of Women Voters Coordinator: The League of Women Voters is sponsoring a Legislative Outlook Public Meeting at Meadowlark Community Room at 2121 Meadowlark Road. This is on Saturday, November 4, 2017 from 9:00-11:00am with coffee and donuts being available. Those invited to speak are Senator Tom Hawk, Representatives Ron Highland, Susie Swanson, Sydney Carlin, and Tom Phillips.
State Board Liaison: Nancy Bolsen – no report.
Webmaster & Newsletter: Barbara Gatewood announced that we do have a new Facebook page. You may access it with AAUW Manhattan, then click on “Like” to follow us. Our old Facebook page had branch as part of the name, but we are now dropping that part.
Yearbook: Tresa Landis announced that the remaining Yearbooks were place at the entrance for members to pick up.
COORDINATORS REPORTS
Faculty Advisor for AAUW at Kansas State University: Rachel Miles – no report.
Archives: Joan Strickler – no report.
Branch Scholarship Chair: Claudia Jones – no report.
National Fellowship and Grants: Rebecca Bahlmann – no report.
University Representatives: Rachel Miles and Tara Fronce – no report.
Interest Groups: Joan Strickler announced that Great Decisions will meet the 2nd Thursday at 4:00pm (note time change) to discuss a chapter from their book.
OLD BUSINESS:
From our retreat we do need to develop a Mixer for Partnering our new members with an existing member. We will need someone to organize this gathering. Karen Tinkler is going to check on one place for this to happen.
We need to obtain a Membership chairperson.
NEW BUSINESS: none
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
It was announced that everyone should attend a candidate forum before the elections. You will become a much more informed voter at election time after attending one of the candidate forums.
Mary Stamey announced that every member does need to go vote on November 7th for the Board of Education candidates of their choice and the City Commission candidates they want to serve next.
Karen McCulloh announced that there will be a discussion meeting held on November 9, 2017 at 7:00 pm at the Fire Station Headquarters concerning Rape Responders and our Title IX responsibilities.
Connie Noble sent notices around that told about our next branch meeting and Mary Stamey also made similar announcement. It is the following:
Our next Branch meeting is November 13, 2017 at the Kansas State University Student Union, in the Flint Hills Room, 7:00 pm. The Program is Take Off Your Hoop Earrings Before You Put On Your Gas Mask: A Civilian Chick’s Survival Guide to a War Zone. This is also sponsored by the Women of K- State and AAUW at K – State Student Organization. Refreshments and networking will happen after the program.
Note the change of location and time for our next meeting: the Flint Hills Room at the K- State Student Union Building at 7:00 p.m. on November 13, 2017.
Our Next Board Meeting is Monday, November 6, 2017 at 4:00 pm at Vista Drive In.
Birthday members were recognized for October and July.
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Maurine Pruitt
AAUW Manhattan (KS) Branch Secretary
AAUW MANHATTAN BRANCH MEETING MINUTES
September 11, 2017
First Congregational Church, 700 Poyntz Avenue, 6:00 p.m.
PROGRAM:
Educating The Next Generation of Public Health Providers. The Speaker was Dr. Ellyn R. Mulcahy, Director of the Master in Public Health Program from Kansas State University.
In May of 2016 Dr. Mulcahy took her position at Kansas State University after being at the Johnson County Community College for several years. While her job consists of teaching, and doing research, her main job is finding jobs for her students. We are fortunate that 75% of the students graduating in the Master in Public Health stay in Kansas. Now there are 55% of the Public Health workers 65 years old and they will be retiring soon. This remains a good prospect for our young students graduating in the Master in Public Health program.
The Master in Public Health program at Kansas State includes the study of Infectious Disease and Zoonoses (diseases that can be transmitted to humans from animals), Food Safety and Biosecurity, Public Health Nutrition and Public Health Physical Activity. The students will pick one of these areas as their study of emphasis. This Master program will include 42 credit hours with 15 or 17 hours of core course study, 20 – 22 credit hours in required courses and electives in area of emphasis, and with 6 or 9 hours of research/field experience. The field or community project for the Masters program is done with a public health practitioner. This field of experience will take the student beyond Kansas State into Kansas areas, different states and different countries. This community or field experience will help the student greatly as he or she applies for a job in the Public Health area.
Working within the Public Health area is going to require study of infectious diseases, chronic diseases, etc. in both the causes and prevention of these diseases. As the students study the diseases, they will have to consider five areas. These areas are Economic Stability, Education, Neighborhood & Built Environment, Health and Health Care, and Social and Community Context. Large amounts of data will have to be collected on whole populations in the state, in the country and around the globe with the goal of Public Health being creating better health for all. They will work toward creating, implementing and sustaining new programs for Public Health. A great task is getting full commitment from everyone affected by the programs to participate wisely.
PRESENT: 24 members attended – Karen Tinkler introduced a new member Becky Ward. Welcome Becky to our AAUW membership.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: President – Mary Stamey
OFFICERS REPORTS:
Past President: Karen Tinkler – no report.
Co-Vice Presidents of Programs: Connie Noble absent, Tersa Landis present. No report.
Secretary: Maurine Pruitt presented the minutes at the table of last two board meetings for all to read.
Treasurer: Shauntia Ripee absent. Claudia Jones showed a report at the tables showing the following: Ending Cash Balance August 31, 2017 $ 2,618.00
Director-at-Large: Marilyn Bunyan present – no report.
APPOINTED OFFICERS REPORTS:
AAUW Funds: Joan Strickler reported that she will be collecting funds for the National AAUW at next month’s meeting.
By-Laws: Nancy Bolsen and Marilyn Bunyan – no report.
Public Policy: Jean Lee – present- no report.
League of Women Voters Coordinator: Jean Lee – present – no report.
State Board Liaison: Nancy Bolsen – no report.
Webmaster & Newsletter: Barbara Gatewood announced that many updates have been made on the AAUW Manhattan Branch website, thanks to the assistance of Padmini Chilappagari, Senior Website Associate, Site Resources.
Yearbook: Tersa Landis handed out our 2017-2018 yearbooks. She also sent around a list of directory information for people to correct if needed.
COORDINATORS REPORTS:
Faculty Advisors for AAUW @ Kansas State University: Rachel Miles – present
Archives: Joan Strickler – present – no report.
Branch Scholarship Chair: Claudia Jones – no report.
National Fellowship and Grants: Rebecca Bahlmann – absent.
University Representatives: Rachel Miles – no report.
Interest Groups: Joan Strickler Great Decisions will meet the 2nd Thursday at 4:00pm (note time change) to discuss a chapter from their book.
OLD BUSINESS: From our retreat we do need to develop a Mixer for Partnering our new members with an existing member. We will need someone to organize this gathering. Nothing done on this at this meeting.
NEW BUSINESS: Mary Stamey had us note that 4 of our meetings will be at different places. Check the Yearbook for locations. Ladies with Birthdays this month were recognized.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Our next meeting is on October 9, 2017 and the program is Title X Family Planning Program: What You Need to Know. The speaker is Karen Hawes, Consultant. The Location and Time are – First Congregational Church, 700 Poyntz Avenue at 6:00 pm.
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Maurine Pruitt
AAUW Manhattan (KS) Branch Secretary