Happy New Year to one and all!

Even though our new year doesn't begin until April 1, we start 2011 with a Planning Session to consider what issues we will "study" on the local, state and national level, and what community issues we will "explore" in Interest Groups in the year ahead.  As the Agenda for the Planning Session indicates, from Noon to 1:45 PM we will consider the continuation of the local County Charter Study approved last year at annual meeting and receive updates on both the state Transportation and national Education Studies.  We will also hear about " A New League -The  Place for You" approach for LWVPBC in 2011.

The mission of the League of women Voters is to promote informed citizen participation in government and to influence public policy through education and advocacy. Statements emanating from the national LWV president, Elisabeth MacNamara and her leadership team stress that a community-focused approach is necessary for an effective local League and the accomplishment of the League's mission.

If we want to be effectively engaged in PBC, assessing the key Palm Beach County issues is critical.  To accomplish this, we have asked key people in PBC to speak at our Planning Session.  We have asked them to give us their assessment of these issues, from their point of view, to help us in our quest to find PBC-focused issues where the LWVPBC can truly make a difference.

Leagues have a range of options available to them in deciding how best to address an issue of public concern.  Each approach-community collaboration, citizen/membership education, action, or study-can be a valid and effective method of pursuing the League's mission.  The set of circumstances surrounding each issue-complexity of the subject, timeframe for action, needs of the community, resources available-helps us determine the most appropriate method to use.

At the January Planning Session we will consider the issues and opportunities presented and begin the process of using a community-focused approach to identify the public issues we may want to explore through interest groups, community collaboration, education, action or future study.

See you on Saturday, January 8. It's going to be a great new year!

Warmly in League,

Kathe

LWVPBC January 8th Planning and County Issues Session

On January 8, LWVPBC members will have an opportunity to make a difference.  At that time, we will be able to determine the direction of our local, state and national studies, hear about a leadership team approach for LWVPBC in 2011, and have the opportunity to learn about key issues in Palm Beach County and how our League might make a difference. 

This meeting, to be held at the Children's Services Council, 2300 High Ridge Rd., Boynton Beach (NW corner I-95 & Gateway), will be divided into two sessions:  LWVPBC Program Planning for 2011-2012 and "What's Happening in Palm Beach County."  Both agendas are described below.

Noon--1:45 PM  PROGRAM PLANNING and LWVPBC UPDATE

Program planning is the basis for education and action.  During this first session, our members will determine the direction LWVPBC will take in regard to current studies.  In addition, those present will hear an overview of plans for improving LWVPBC's organization and effectiveness.

Studies

• Local Study (2010-2011) - A study of the Palm Beach County Charter beginning with a study of the methods of electing County Commissioners. Presented by Sue Litchfield, Chair.

• State Study (2009-2012) - A study of Florida Transportation to include research into the Florida transportation planning process and funding options for the State's comprehensive multi-modal transportation.  In addition, the study will investigate available dedicated funding sources. Presented by the Transportation Committee:  Charlotte Nash, Justine Postal and Laura Rawlins-Blum.

• National Study (2010-2011) - A study of "The Role of the Federal Government in Education."  This study, passed at the 2010 National Convention, will consider the federal role in pre-K through grade 12 public education.  It will be limited to issues of equity, funding and standards assessments.  Presented by Rita Wachs, National Education Study Chair.

Update

"A New League - The Place for You."  Presented by Barbara Eriv. Click here for more information.

2:00-3:30 PM "WHAT'S HAPPENING in PALM BEACH COUNTY?"

During this session key persons in Palm Beach County will deliver 10 minute presentations on important county issues followed by a brief Q & A.  A table for printed material will be available.

Presenters:

• Tana Ebbole, CEO Children's Services Council
• Paulette Burdick, PBC Commissioner, Community of Wellness
• Todd Bonlarron, PBC Legislative Affairs Director, Palm Beach County's 2011 Legislative Priorities
• Jeanette Hartzell, former staff member of the PBC Health Dept. and current board member of the Governor's Council for Community Health Partnerships, The Florida Children's Movement
• Daliah Weiss, Assistant State Attorney
• Annette Evans, former Community Improvement Administrator, Boca Raton and current member of the FL Community Development Assoc., Campaign Finance Reform
• Dr. Alina Alonzo, PBC Health Department Director
• Josette Kaufman, Exec. Dir. Arthur R. Marshall Foundation, Natural Resources
• Robert Weisman, Palm Beach County Administrator

Barbara Eriv

"Diversity and pluralism are fundamental to the values the League upholds."    (Carolyn Jefferson-Jenkins, President of LWV Diversity Implementation Task Force.)

To get in step with the national League and their above theme, the LWVPBC Building Bridges Team would like to begin transforming the face of our local League, to more closely resemble the faces of our county, state, and nation.

Why make the effort?

As Carolyn goes on to say, "If we are to continue to fight for inclusion in public policy and if we are to work with people instead of for people, all communities must see themselves reflected in the League membership and leadership." 

The more groups and individuals we work with, the more we will be able to create community-wide support for our goals.  That can mean more volunteers and more resources for League programs, plus more of an impact on the issues we care about (many of which we may find we have in common!)

Step One: Educate Oourselves

• Get to know the people who live and work in our county.  Become involved with their organizations.
• Send League members out to talk to people and their organizations. These new partnerships could empower us to become not only more representative, but more effective.

"A Taste of the Caribbean"

Start taking Step One by joining the Building Bridges Team on Saturday, January 29 from Noon to 2 PM at Caribbean Choice Restaurant as the League presents "A Taste of the Caribbean!"  Music, history of the islands, culture and current affairs will get us started!  Sample and taste their culinary delights!  The Caribbean Choice Restaurant is located at 955 Sansbury, West Palm Beach.

Directions to Caribbean Choice

• From I-95: Take Southern Blvd. exit and to west to Sansbury (2^nd light after Turnpike).  Turn right and travel to light at Belvedere.  Restaurant is on corner to our left, but entrance is left at light and first left backtracking to the restaurant.
• From Turnpike:  Take Southern Blvd. exit and go west to Sansbury.  Follow directions above (same as from I-95).

 We are at the beginning...This is just the first step of many yet to come.  We welcome your suggestions and participation as the PBC League continues to build bridges in Palm Beach County.  For more information, contact one of the chairpersons:

• Karen Wilkerson info@lwvpbc.org
• Nancy Gau info@lwvpbc.org
   

The Committee has worked hard to supply our members with information the on the Palm Beach County Commission to.  We:

• provided a general overview of how our County Government is set up and functions,
• interviewed Bob Weisman, County Administrator regarding his job responsibilities and the function of county government on a day-to-day basis, and
• completed a comparative study of seven counties in the State of Florida, including Palm Beach. 

This comparative study gave us a better idea of how commissioners get elected.  Our chart (click here) shows the number of commissioners, terms and limits, when elections are held, and how they are elected.  As you can see from the chart, it varies county-to-county.

We look forward to studying the Palm Beach County Charter and how it affects the lives of its citizens. 

Thanks to the Committee Members for their hard work and continued support.  Please join this committee if you are interested in how your county operates.  Next Meeting: Friday, January 21^st @ 10 AM, City of Delray Library.  For more information, contact Chairperson Susan Litchfield info@lwvpbc.org

Help Wanted with Legislative Delegation Interviews

Build Relationships and League Visibility through Community Action

The goal of this outreach is to build relationships with our legislators and find key issues of commonality.  With your LWV knowledge and dedication we can strengthen the lines of communication with our Palm Beach County legislators and foster an exchange of ideas and information.

You are our best asset and are vital to ensure that we have support for League priorities and a voice in determining the future of Palm Beach County. 

Contact:

Patty O'Connor at info@lwvpbc.org

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Dues Notices
Joan Karp

A Great Big LWVPBC Thank-You to Ellen Sanders Galkin

 THANK YOU, THANK YOU to our Vice President Ellen Sanders Galkin for hosting our exceptional

holiday party on Saturday, December 4^th.  Everyone in attendance shared in the warmth and generosity of our host, as well as the beautiful setting and the delicious food. 

We in League are usually so busy with the business of the League that we don't often have an opportunity to socialize and enjoy the company of our fellow Leaguers.  What a wonderful to start the holiday season.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, ELLEN!

Be sure to view the pictures.

Membership Team

Elayne Goodman, Chair

Orientation and Welcome - Northern Area

Plans are underway for an Orientation and Welcome coffee for new and prospectivemembers living in the northern area of Palm Beach County on Friday, January 14^th from 1 to 3PM at the home of Gloria Alexander, 4523 Brook Drive, West Palm Beach.  Another orientation will be held in March in the central area of the county.

Membership Team

Team member Joan Karp is in charge of keeping the member data base current  Anne Davis has been diligently sending letters, including our calendar, to new and prospective members even while she was receiving chemotherapy.  Anne is now recuperating, but has continued to meet her responsibility to ensure new and prospective members receive current information that will engage them in League.  Other Team members Linda Sorenson, Dorothy Weiss, Helene Roach, Joan Karp, and Sue Litchfield continue to greet members and reach out to new members and guests at Hot Topics and other events.  Jean Edelman, Dorothy Weiss, Karen Wilkerson, Jeanette Hartzel, Maxine Weinberg, Sondra Hirsch and Nancy Flynn have made important reminder calls to new and prospective members about upcoming meetings and events.  Gerda Shay, a past membership chair, has been capturing the attention of friends and acquaintances and has brought in several new members.

Building Bridges Committee

Our new committee, Building Bridges, is a pathway to encourage diversity in our membership.  We have already engaged younger professional members and are reaching out to college students and the underserved communities.

League Visibility

The League's high profile at speaking engagements, the Hot Line and other events, before and during election time, has brought attention to our credibility and helped increase our membership.  We have gained 40 new members.  Some of them are already engaged in League projects. 

Our Goals

Our current membership is just under 300 up from 260 in April.  We still have a way to go, but our enthusiasm is contagious and it won't be too long before we reach 325.  Hopefully with ALL our efforts we can reach that goal before the fiscal year ends in April.  Last year our membership was at an all time high of 380 members.  It is important to remember THAT ALL LEAGUE MEMBERS ARE PART OF THE MEMBERSHIP TEAM!!!!!!

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!

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November Forum

Paulette Burdick, a League member, former School Board Member and newly elected County Commissioner, was the Social Issues Forum speaker on November 29^th.  She outlined what "A Community of Wellness" organization is planning to improve the health of residents of Palm Beach County and what part the League could play in these efforts.

The leaders of this program believe it is vital that adults in the community be aware of, and participating in, habits that lead to wellness.  The schools are already using the program.  They hope to involve the business, religious, social, etc. communities in competing with each other to see how many people will practice eating five fresh fruits and vegetables a day, exercising more and losing that bulge around the waist.  Details with incentives for such participation will be widely distributed in February or March.  The League hopes to form teams within our membership, perhaps the North vs. the South, to join in this effort.

Not only will participants feel better, but the cost of health care can be drastically reduced if this campaign is successful.  More information will be provided as the campaign progresses.

At this meeting, a discussion of hunger in Palm Beach County brought forth the information on an organization that is trying to meet this need.  Its website is www.SHAREFLORIDA.org.  The program is open to everyone.

December Hot Topic

The Hot Topic for December continued the Social Issues Committee's interest in Health Care.   Dr. Robert D. Hays and Dr. Patrick M. Beret, professors at FAU, presented "HealthCare Today and Its Effects on Medicare."

Dr. Hays outlined how medical care has evolved since 1965,(see details here) what provoked the changes in the Health Care Reform Act, when the new laws would kick in, who would benefit, who objected to these changes and why, and how it would be paid for. More information here.

Dr. Bernet focused on the changes in Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans under the new Health Care Reform Act.

Both men answered a myriad of questions to the unanimous praise of the audience.

Speakers Wrap up Season at Pot Luck
Corinne Miller

Nine of the Bureau's twelve speakers gathered around the table on December 7th to share a pot luck supper, toast the success of Fair Districts and trade war stories.  Completing over 120 speaking engagements, earning over $1700 for the League and reaching groups new to the League were only part of the story.  Every speaker recounted the experience of really learning the ins and outs of the nine ballot questions well enough to amaze audiences by using few or even no notes.  They recalled appreciation from groups who said they really managed to make a subject that could put an audience to sleep both entertaining and informative.

At almost every appearance, our speakers were invited to still more groups.  Some days there were five League speakers engaged around the County.  The feeling that we really made a difference was expressed over and over.

And of course there were the stories:

• Miriam Aaron's standing ovation.
• Barbara Eriv's e-mail saying "they really liked me" when she got a warm reception and another engagement at her first appearance.
• Linda Sorenson's call back for an update to a group that gave the League $100 for her first appearance and then another $100 when she returned.
• Mary Jane Range's growing collection of mugs and cups as she became the "Queen of Kiwanis and Rotary."
• Pam Goodman bringing out her pearls to visit the DAR.
• Geoff Kashdan arriving at a rehab center only to find that his audience really was in rehab at the scheduled time.
• Corinne Miller coming to a Sunday breakfast where she was scheduled for five minutes and learning that the main speaker was a "no show," so she had the mike for an hour and got the speakers check for $50.
• Eileen Flomenhoft- Shevach arriving back from vacation with a nasty cold coming on, who refused to waste the time spent on the plane boning up, and pulled herself together for a scheduled talk the next day.
• Karen Wilkerson being asked to wait in the hall before she spoke not knowing that the group had a private ceremony in progress.
• Patty O'Conner speaking to a group in a noisy restaurant.
• And let's not forget the "Ballot Question Rap" written by Marcia Lamel.

All reported how eager groups were for our Special Edition Voter and other material.  We made new contacts, picked up new members and put the League on the map. The speakers plan to offer several topics to the public during the coming year and will be meeting regularly to develop material and hone their message.  Stay tuned!

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Speakers' Bureau:  Observations of a First-Timer
Linda Sorenson

What's Happening at State (LWVF)
Bea Perkins

In early December, LWVF President Deirdre Macnab, along with several LWV Lobby Corps members and Ben Wilcox, our Lobbyist, met with an array of legislators, the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Florida TaxWatch, the Florida League of Cities and Florida Association of Counties. Their goal was to build relationships and find key areas of common ground.  Although the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR) has not yet been filed, Senate President Mike Haridopolos indicated that this bill is one of his top priorities.  After its filing, the League will need to do its homework to ensure that we have a voice on this subject.

With regard to local Legislative Hearings: On Thursday, Jan. 6th, from 2 to 5PM, at the Wellington Community Center, 12145 W. Forest Hill Blvd., our President, Kathe Thompson, will speak about the League's 2011 concerns. You are welcome to attend.

If you or someone you know would like to be elected or appointed to the State Board, Nominating Committee Chair, Corinne Miller info@lwvpbc.org would be glad to hear from you, answer your questions and consider your interests. Please get in touch with her ASAP.

LWVPBC will continue to remain vigilant regarding the FairDistricts Amendments.  We want to ensure that the public is involved and that these new rules are followed.  Our goal is to achieve a state government that is truly "for the people."  This subject will be enlist our-going attention to detail after the legislature presents/draws its state and congressional districts.

What's Happening at National (LWVUS)

Bea Perkins

The Election Assistance Commission (EAC) has proposed some minor changes to the mail-in voter registration application form.  LWVUS and a number of state Leagues strongly supported online voter registration, proposing that the EAC provide the application form in electronic format.  Gracia Hillman was the League's Executive Director from 1990 to1994 and has been a member of EAC since its inception seven years ago.  She is leaving this month.  We and America's voters will miss her voice and dedication.

President Elizabeth MacNamara and a diverse array of groups urged Speaker-elect Boehner to keep the Office of Congressional Ethics (OCE) in the upcoming 112th Congress.  There may be attempts to weaken enforcement by this committee in the House of Representatives.

League President MacNamara remarked at the DISCLOSE Act Coalition Event: "Fair and clean elections, determined by the votes of American citizens, should be at the center of our democracy.  Enhanced disclosure is the most basic step toward protecting the role of voters and ensuring that they can make informed decisions."

Susan B. Anthony - The Invincible - Save the Date
Bea Perkins

Susan B. Anthony

On March 10, 2011, LWVPBC will be a Presenting Sponsor of a special evening performance featuring actress Sally Matson in her play entitled Susan B. Anthony--The Invincible.  This is a living-history dramatic presentation of a prominent women's rights activist and suffragette in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.  As you know, Susan B. Anthony is one of the League's "ancestors" so we always like to learn more about her life and activities.

The Historical Society of Palm Beach County has planned this March event to coincide with Women's History Month.  The Junior League of Palm Beaches is a Supporter.  We are pleased to work with these two organizations.  More details will follow in subsequent VOTERS.

Save the Date for the 2011 Annual Luncheon

On Saturday, April 2^nd, 2011, the League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County will hold its Annual Luncheon featuring Keynote Speaker the honorable Madeleine May Kunin. 

Ms. Kunin was the first, and to date, the only woman governor of

Ms Kunin is currently the James Marsh Professor at Large at the University of Vermont

the State of Vermont.  Prior to her election as Governor, she served in the Vermont House of Representatives, where she was elected Minority Whip and subsequently elected to two terms as Lieutenant Governor. 

Ms. Kunin was a pioneer in public service. Her other "firsts" include, the first woman in United States history to be elected governor three times, the first Jewish governor of the State of Vermont and also the first Jewish woman to be elected as governor of a U.S. state.  

After serving the State of Vermont, Ms. Kunin became a member of President Bill Clinton's administration  as Deputy Secretary of Education from 1993 until 1997, when she became the United States Ambassador to Switzerland. 

Topic:            Religions and International Affairs (Continuation from December)

When:            MONDAY, January 24, 2011,  2:00-4:00 PM (the fourth Monday)

Where:            "505" Teen Center, 505 SE 5^th Avenue, Delray

The interest in this topic and volunteers to make presentations were amazing!  This has led everyone to believe that continuing this program into January would be of interest both to members and guests.

The group is considering the influence of many religions on aspects of world politics.  The religions being discussed are Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Shinto, and the Quakers.  The group will look at how these religions, in the past and present, have influenced foreign policy and foreign affairs in United States and countries around the globe.

Come and join the informative presentations followed by intelligent and broadening discussions.

REMINDER:  The 2011 Great Decisions Books will be distributed to members who ordered them.  Persons wishing to purchase a 2011 Great Decisions Book may do so for $20.00 plus a small surcharge for meeting room rental.

The interesting and challenging 2011 GREAT DECISIONS topics are: 

1.     Rebuilding Haiti

2.     U.S. National Security

3.     Horn of Africa Responding to the Financial Crisis

4.     Germany Ascending

5.     Sanctions and Nonproliferation

6.     The Caucasus

7.     Global Government

Great Decisions is a program begun 57 years ago by the Foreign Policy Association.  Fellow citizens across the United States yearly discover, discuss, and conclude how many of the world's greatest challenges can be met.  Great Decisions takes one behind and beyond the headlines by providing insight into the challenges facing our planet.  Each Great Decisions Book provides essential background, relevant facts, present and future policy options, and impartial analysis.

Four hundred thousand Americans participate in this program yearly.  Please join and gain a better understanding of global topics affecting you and America.  Cost is minimal while providing maximum knowledge and understanding.

Make GREAT DECISIONS your goal for information and discussion in 2011!     

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The Palm Beach County National Organization for Women (PBC NOW)
Susan B. Anthony Feminist of the Year Award Luncheon

State Representative Kelly Skidmore will be honored as the Susan B. Anthony Feminist of the Year at The Palm Beach County National Organization for Women luncheon on Saturday, February 12, 2011, from 12:00 noon to 3:00 PM at the Boca Country Club, 17751 Boca Club Blvd.

The Keynote Speaker at the event will be Congressman Alcee Hastings with Guest Speaker NOW - National President Terry O'Neill

Cost of the luncheon is $45 per member and $50 for non-members.  There is a $10 discount with the cost of a new membership.

If you are interested in attending, please send your check to:

PBC NOW - SBA Luncheon
c/o Meredith Ockman
17204 Glenmoor Drive
West Palm Beach, Florida 33409

For more information, contact: Meredith Ockman at 561-632-6544 or President@PBCNOW.org

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