Volume XXI, Number 5 September & October, 2006
NOW News Voices Around the Table: Sexual Harassment Local Perspectives Women at Work Women’s Stories Creative Women Body & Soul Community Bulletin Board Community Resources
3 4 5 5-6 7 8-10 9 11-12 13-14 15
Cover Art by Dorothy Riggs
Women’s Community Center
The Path to Parity: Local Woman Challenges Church Doctrine By Trisha Oksner
Friend, foe or telemarketer, Pismo Beach resident Merlene Olivia Doko embraces them all when she answers her home telephone with the reassuring words, “peace be with you.” It is ironic, then, that this gentle grandmother found peace within herself by performing an act of defiance against a formidable force: the Roman Catholic Church. A lifelong Church devotee, Olivia was ordained on July 31 as a Roman Catholic priest - despite Church doctrine defying the legitimacy of a woman participating in such a ceremony. Roman Catholic Womenpriests (RCWP, http://www.romancatholicwomenpriests.org) sponsored the ordination, held on a chartered boat on the Three Rivers near Pittsburgh, PA. In ordaining women to the deaconate and the priesthood, RCWP aims to bring about nothing less than full equality of women in the Church and revolutionize from within the traditional, male-dominated hierarchical structure. While they may be breaking a Church law, the RCWP and its ordinands believe that the law is as unjust as apartheid in South Africa or slavery in the United States. “Change, particularly in the Catholic Church, comes at the grassroots level,” noted Dr. Victoria Rue, a professor of Comparative Religious Studies and Women’s Studies at San Jose State University. A 2005 ordinand to the priesthood also via RCWP, Rue noted that “more and more people in the Church are feeling unfortunately marginalized. If it isn’t divorced people, then it is those who use birth con-
trol or gay and lesbian Catholics or women in general. All of those who have been left out in the margins are realizing that the margins are growing. We are calling out many issues in our ordinations: the issue of celibacy, the notion of hierarchy, and the issue of making the sacraments in general and Mass in particular – more inclusive of women in terms of the images and language we use. We shouldn’t have to go to another tradition simply because the hierarchy here says that women will never be ordained.” Like the pioneers before her who tackled the status quo, Olivia faces tremendous challenges on her path to spiritual fulfillment. Even as she basks in so recently attaining her dreams of the priesthood, Olivia awaits word on whether or not she will be ex-communicated from the Church she has devoted her life to serving. “I will feel badly and take it seriously if it happens,” she said. “But as far as I am concerned, I am ordained and will preach and administer the sacraments. I just want to serve the people and provide what they need. If I am
able to be the best priest I can be, that would be the best message to Rome I could ever give.” Unfortunately, not everyone embraces that message. Despite an overwhelmingly positive response to recent media reports on her journey, Olivia has received hate mail. One “particularly nasty” letter arrived at her house from an orthodox Catholic organization. “I feel badly that others are angry about my decision – I hurt for them and I forgive them – but it doesn’t stop me,” she said, her voice hardening ever so slightly. It undoubtedly helps that she has unconditional support from her husband of 43 years, Slavo, a retired meat cutter; her two sons Nick and Anthony; and their families. “They really see the importance of this,” she said, adding that to a one, her family has been “truly loving and supportive.” That support was evident at her first Mass, held August 6th at La Casa de Maria spiritual retreat near Santa Barbara. More than 100 friends, family and members of the interfaith community attended the Catholic
liturgy. Olivia felt “energized” by the experience, from her infant grandson sitting in the pews to the nun who stood up and said, “For every woman here today, this is her first Mass.” Not only is her family behind her wholly and completely, but Olivia has also found “a depth of love and appreciation” from Catholic women who dream of following a similar path. More than 120 women from around the world are currently training to become ordained in the deaconate and the priesthood through RCWP. Olivia is the first to admit that her path is not for everyone – particularly the faint of heart. “I felt very frustrated because I didn’t see how I could do this,” she said of her journey, noting that she spent time exploring other Christian denominations that do ordain women and despaired of ever finding one that fit for her the way Catholicism does. Then she found RWCP. “To me, it is all part of the journey that I surrender to,” she said. “Once I realized this was my call, I had to look past the frustration and ask, ‘how can this be so strong and so real, and not be possible?’ There is a sense of coming home when you finally give in to where you are supposed to be.” With such tremendous drive and determination despite great odds, hopefully peace will continue to be with her. Olivia Doko can be contacted at mdoko@dslextreme.com. She is currently saying Mass for small Christian communities in the area who have requested her to do so.
Enhancement, Inc. Offers First Creative Healing Retreat for Local Breast Cancer Survivors Friday Evening, September 29 through Sunday Noon, October 1, Inn at Morro Bay
Enhancement’s first Creative Healing Retreat for Breast Cancer Survivors is a pilot for future retreats. The goal of this project is to help survivors improve their quality of life by learning techniques to reduce stress, fear, and anxiety through art, music, writing, yoga, and education. According to the American Cancer Society, there are approximately 185 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients in San Luis Obispo County annually, so there are thousands of survivors in our county. Often survivors are left without any coping mechanisms to deal with their altered physical shape, emotional trauma, and so on. This pilot retreat will have a balanced group of those who are newly diagnosed as well as survivors of varying durations to ensure that all levels of survivors are included. The University of California at San Diego website states: “uninhibited expression of feelings and emotions through art may help to release the fear, anxiety, and anger many cancer patients experience. Art can also be viewed as a distraction to the pain and discomfort of disease, allowing patients increased well being and relief from stress. By relieving stress, the body’s immune system and, therefore, resistance to disease, may be heightened.” Yoga techniques that take into account restrictions attendees may Continued on HEALING, page 7
Women’sPress
Women’s Press September & October 2006 | editors@womenspress-slo.org
We hope you enjoy the latest edition of the paper, the issue that launches our new logo! A new logo, developing website – a plan for growth Thanks to Ben Lawless, our layout designer, for the new logo and design for the front page that we present to you in this issue. Ben has redesigned the inside of the paper as well, as you may have noticed last issue. AND he set up a website up on which we can post event, with more features to come. Due to committed and creative persons like Ben, the Press continues to flourish and grow. We will be holding a strategic planning meeting for the Press on Sunday, September 17, at the WCC offices from 12-4. If you have time and ideas and want to contribute your expertise to the growth of the paper by attending, call me, 474-6444. What does saving the world look like? Last spring the theme of the first Women’s Press retreat was “Gather the Women—Save the World.”* By the end of the day we had gone within ourselves to find peace, clarity, and commitment, and gathered together ready to engage in activities in our community that would be our personal contribution to “saving the world.” I’ve pondered since then what role the Press can take to that end, and the answer is easy: we can continue telling stories. Humans live by stories and, as David Korten says in his new book, The Great Turning, “To change the human future, we must change our defining stories.” We need to actually control the stories by which we define ourselves and our possibilities. The goal of the Press is to “educate, enlighten, and empower,” and reading about innovative, life-affirming, and life-changing activities that local residents are engaged in will certainly contribute to those goals. They will contribute to the positive shift in consciousness our planet needs to experience. I’ve lived on the Central Coast for five years, and I sincerely believe it is an energy center that expands consciousness. Given the modest population of the county, we have an amazing collection of enlightened thinkers who gather in small groups, create visions, and actively pursue them. There is ongoing dialogue about solutions to society’s problems we’re not reading about in the mainstream media. Our community has a large number of alternative media: Women’s Press, HopeDance, Information Press, Rogue Voice, and New Times. HopeDance’s films expose us to activities around the world that seek to create living local economies or inform us about issues and activities that make us better informed voters. I’d like the Women’s Press to actively seek out stories of local activities that demonstrate partnership, collaboration, community building, and any attempts to create a more civil society – those that will become our new defining stories. OR let us know of situations/problems that would benefit from such an approach, and we’ll let our readers know about them, too. So put out your antenna, keep your ears and eyes open, and let me know about any life-affirming activities and opportunities that we can write about.
Women’s Community Center Board Angie King, President Kathleen Deragon Susan Howe Sue McMeans Andy McMeans Jan Potter Renee Sanpei Robin Werderits Karol Vogt
MAILING ADDRESS: Women’s Press Women’s Community Center 880 Industrial Way San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805.544.9313 Managing Editor: Kathleen Deragon managing-editor@womenspress-slo.org Layout & Design: Benjamin Lawless Distribution: Barbara Perry Subscriptions: subscriptions@womenspress-slo.org Ads: ads@womenpress-slo.org (Put “ads” or “subscriptions” in subject line)
Submissions Welcomed!
Articles, essays, opinion pieces, letters, artwork, poetry wanted & appreciated. The Women’s Press reserves the right to edit all submissions for content, clarity & length. Contact managing-editor@womenspress-slo.org or call 805.544.9313. The opinions expressed in the Women’s Press are those of the authors & do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Women’s Community Center. The Women’s Community Center does not necessarily endorse products or services advertised in the Women’s Press.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness, Sexual Awareness, and Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Letter to the Editor Thank you, Women’s Press! We’ve received phone calls each week since our WILD Home Gallery’s OPEN HOUSE covered in the last issue of Women’s Press! More prospective members are receiving information about our new All Women’s Creative Cooperative (AWCC). Some have joined our classes held in my private studio in Los Osos on Saturday afternoons, while others are making patterns of their designs to share with new members, including our counties’ women at risk and homeless. The San Francisco Green Festival in November and our Internet shopping cart, opening at MadeinSanLuisObispo.com, are our next projects this fall. AND we’ve begun to build inventory for both ambitious marketing efforts, as we share our designs to empower all women interested in
creative alternative expression and self-employment empowerment. Cooperatively, our designs are Brave New Wares, which by definition are greater than 85% natural and wild content – blending recycled elements, made by owner-producers. AWCC’s mixed media functional eco-art and craft lines are growing, to now include lamps, mirrors, wall art, vases, tiles, and soon collectible handcrafted dolls, with puppets of recycled textiles. If you’re interested in joining our Wild Crafting Circle, hosting a circle in SLO of your own, or have a design to share with AWCC call Eve at 815-8700 for a private tour of our WILD Home Gallery in Los Osos or e-mail us goodideas@bravenewwares. com. Eve Adams
Subscribe to the Women’s Press: The annual subscription fee for delivery of the Women’s Press by U.S. Mail is $20/year (six issues). Mail check to Women’s Community Center, 880 Industrial Way, San Luis Obispo,CA 93401. Write “Women’s Press subscription” on the memo line.
Evelyn Adams Barbara Atkinson June Beck Rebecca Brown Nancy Booye Tammie Burnsed Dee Carroll Kate Czekala Linda Davis Bailey Drechsler Anne Dunbar Beverly Engel Jeanie Greensfelder Hilda Heifetz Angela Henderson Susan Howe Charlene Huggins Laura Hyde Jessica Isaac Roberta Youtan Kay Angie King Alyson Leblanc Dianne Legro Pam Logan
Volunteers
Elizabeth McGregor Susan McIntosh Andy McMeans Sue McMeans Heather Mendel Denise Nickeson Trisha Oksner Berta Parrish Anne Quinn Lynda Roeller Shana Ross Bonnie Sandecki Renee Sanpei Dorothy Segovia Paula Sigman Jacqueline Turner Simone Viola Chelsea Wanner Robin Werderits Dawn Williams Connie Winstead Emily Yurchesen Andrea Zeller
Wanted Your Opinion Send your letters to : Women’s Press–Your Opinion Women’s Community Center 880 Industrial Way San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 Send eMail to : managing-editor@womenspress-slo.org ( “Your Opinion” in subject line)
ADVERTISING RATES for publication-ready ads: Business card:
$35/one issue 4" X 5": $75/one issue
Quarter page: $115/one issue
Half page:
$190/one issue Full page: $350/one issue
$150/year (6 issues) $350/year (6 issues) $525/year (6 issues) $850/year (6 issues) $1575/year (6 issues)
Publication-ready defined as high-resolution (minimum 300 dpi) digital files in one of the following formats: .tif, .ai, .psd, .pdf, .jpg, or .eps Ad design/layout & color ads available upon request at an additional charge.
6000 free copies distributed in SLO County. Subscriptions by mail & by e-mail available.
Women’sCommunityCenter
September & October 2006 | www.womenspress-slo.org | Women’s Press
880 Industrial Way • San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 • 805.544.9313
Thanks for supporting Women’s Press!
Family Law Action Committee Dealing With Divorce
Temptress
Kaye Tift, Susan Rodriguez, Pat Soulliere-Ochylski
Chanteuse Shirley Clark Herbel
Wonder Woman x2 Chris Neiburger Adele Stern
Diva
Margaret Hennessey
Our mission is: • TO maintain an accessible center to collect and exchange information of interest and concern to women • TO organize and facilitate workshops, clinics, seminars, classes and support groups on subjects of interest and need • TO engage in and facilitate interaction among local, state and national agencies and organizations working to benefit women
Reflections on the August Intergenerational Conversation By Shana Ross
The flat warm river rock passed from hand to hand around the circle. As it reached each woman she felt its weight in her grasp and slowly, deliberately, she spoke from her heart. The others leaned in to hear her words. The women, ranging in age from 30-something to 80-something, had chosen during this intergenerational conversation to talk about Aging, something they all were experiencing, though from different stages. Some worried about not yet bearing children or having “made it” in the material world, watching the years slip away. Others were feeling tired and achy, watching gravity take its toll on skin and joints. Still others were enjoying the passage of time. Though they were of different generations, as they listened deeply to one another they heard (and felt) the common places that joined them. The bonds between them grew and something special emerged. Hosted by the Women’s Press, Women’s Community Center, and Cal Poly Women’s Programs, the “Intergenerational in the conference room in the SLO Library. Women of all generations are invited to come together to connect and celebrate womanhood in all its stages and ages. Using a circle format with clear guidelines and principles to enhance safety, this facilitated group is open to new members who are interested in being with others in an intimate conversation. Discussion topics are chosen by the group at each session. For more information, call Kathleen at 474-6444 or Shana at 541-1736.
Women’s Press presents
Intermezzo
3rd Wednesday of each month – 7 PM Upcoming: September 20, October 18 and November 15 Talk with other women who have been there, done that in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. $5 donation
Self-Represented Litigants’ Clinic
4th Tuesday of each month – 5:30 PM Upcoming: September 26, October 24 and November 28 Get family law advice from local attorneys and/or paralegals. Reservations required. $25 donation Call the WCC- for more information and to confirm dates: 805.544.9313
A Powerful Process for Reviewing, Re-Envisioning and Re-Creating the Second Half of Life
WEEKEND OF OCTOBER 28 AND 29, 2006 • • • •
Learn innovative techniques to help you re-envision how you want to live the rest of your life Identify the obstacles and limiting beliefs and behaviors that prevent you from moving forward and living a joyous life Discover powerful tools that will help you to move more creatively into the future Experience your personal renaissance by fulfilling undeveloped parts of yourself
Beverly Engel, M.F.T., is the bestselling author of 18 self-help books and is an internationally recognized expert in women’s issues and relationships. She has been a psychotherapist and workshop leader for 30 years. She has shared her expertise on many national television programs, including Oprah, CNN, Sally Jesse Raphael, Ricki Lake, and Starting Over. Heather Mendel is a speech and hearing therapist, spiritual director, calligraphic artist, writer and storyteller. She has facilitated spirituality groups for women for the past 15 years. Her book, Towards Freedom, has been well received nationally and abroad. She is a guest speaker in many local venues and a guest lecturer each semester at Cal Poly, in the area of women’s spirituality.
For a full description of the weekend, cost, location and a pre-registration form, go to www.beverlyengel.com or www.womenspress-slo.org or call: (805) 528-7544
Next conversation: September 20, 4:30-6:30, SLO Library Conference Room
Thanks to volunteers at New Frontiers NEW
Women’s drop-in support group Thurdays, 7 PM Women’s Community Center 880 Industrial Way, SLO No charge Phone for more info – 544-9313.
The Women’s Community Center and Women’s Press thanks Barbara Atkinson, Laura Hyde, Rosalee Calvillo, Jan Potter, Robin Werderits, and Dawn Williams for staffing our table at New Frontiers on August 9. We made $1370 that day! We appreciate your helping us out and letting more people know about the Center and the Press.
Cover Art Dorothy Riggs’ subject matter is thought provoking, and ,at times, controversial. Her oil and mixed media paintings burst from her soul onto the canvas. “My process of painting is an opened-eye meditation... a time and place for ultimate freedom...” Her studio is nestled in the hills south of SLO. She teaches 6-week classes for women only in her studio, where women discover how art can provide support and self-discovery. You can view her work at www.dorothyriggs.com and contact her at 595.7460 or artstudio@dorothyriggs.com.
NOWNews
Women’s Press September & October 2006 | editors@womenspress-slo.org
National Organization for Women
The purpose of NOW is to bring women into full participation in the mainstream of American society NOW !
Coordinator’s Corner By Angie King
By now, members and our friends in the larger community have realized that Women’s Equality Day, August 26, came and went without much fanfare. Partly because of the looming intensity of today’s foreign affairs news, and partly because we couldn’t get the movie we wanted. We tried to obtain old suffragette films from 1916 to 1918, silent one-reel films directed and often starred in by Dorothy Gish, one of the era’s great stars. However, it turns out the copies (copy?) are at the Library of Congress and do not circulate. To top it off, they are in some really old, now obsolete format that modern theatres aren’t equipped to show. By the time I had discovered all that, it was too late to set up another kind of event. So, apologies to all who got up Saturday, August 26th expecting to see a movie at the Palm and join a discussion about women’s suffrage. It didn’t happen. Thanks, however, to Jim Dee, for offering his theatre for the event. Women’s Equality Day celebrates the day the 19th amendment to the US Constitution finally passed, securing for women the right to vote in federal elections. While it was officially in August, our right to vote becomes important in November – and increasingly before that as more than 1/3 the eligible voters in our county voted by absentee ballot in the last election. As you exercise your right to vote, remember your foremothers’ long struggle to provide that right. I was very pleased to see the national convention of NOW last July take a stand against Parental Alienation Syndrome (PAS). The Women’s Community Center’s Family Law Action Committee has been protesting the use of this so-called syndrome here in SLO county for many years. The term was created as a tactic to defend fathers accused of child molestation or other abuse, and has been repudiated by the experts in the field. The National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges has strongly condemned its use. The NOW resolution recommends that any professional whose mission involves the protection of the rights of women and children denounce the use of PAS as unethical, unconstitutional and dangerous. Yes!
October is chock full of activities for NOW members. October 7-8 marks the Morro Bay Harbor Festival, supporting the fishing industry that supports our economy. NOW volunteers each year to help out, and in return, receives a donation from the Festival. This year we will be, again, selling scrip for beer near the entertainment stage. Please contact us (slonow@kcbx.net) to volunteer for a 3 hour shift either or both days. You get in free to the festival, there’s great music, and many vendors give the volunteers free food. October 18 is Love Your Body Day, established by the NOW Foundation as way to celebrate women’s bodies for what they are, not what advertisers think we ought to be. Hollywood and the fashion, cosmetics and diet industries work hard to make each of us believe that our bodies are unacceptable and need constant improvement. Print ads and television commercials reduce us to body parts — lips, legs, breasts — airbrushed and touched up to meet impossible standards. TV shows tell women and teenage girls that cosmetic surgery is good for self-esteem. Is it any wonder that more than 80% of fourth-grade girls have been on some form of fad diet? Women and girls spend billions of dollars every year on cosmetics, fashion, magazines and diet aids. Teach your adolescent girls (and boys) about the effects of dieting when you’re 12, and how to say “no” to harmful ads. This year, SLO NOW joins the Cal Poly Women’s Center to showcase the positive aspects of women’s bodies. Check with them (756-2600) for more details and visit loveyourbody.nowfoundation.org for more action tips. NOW is also involved in the ongoing Intergenerational Conversations sponsored by the Women’s Press and the Women’s Community Center. See the information on page 3 of this issue for the next meeting of this group. Meeting and talking with women of all ages about our lives is not only good for your health (see article) but also life affirming, deepening our awareness of how we are all interconnected.
NOW Calendar
NOW Chapter # CA 565 PO Box 1306, SLO, CA 93406 SLONOW @ kcbx.net
Sept 1: • birthday of Ann Richards, governor of Texas, 1933 Sept 4: • 1995 UN Conference on Women in Beijing, China • Labor Day, celebrating gains in organized labor movement Sept 6: • NOW first national organization to champion lesbian rights, 1971 Sept 9: • CA Admission Day Sept 15: • 4 black children bombed in church, Birmingham, 1963 Sept 16: • birthday of Karen Horney, 1885; first to challenge male notions of psychology
Election News
Reproductive Rights News
November 7 is Election Day this year. We will vote at the federal level for Congress, at the state level for governor and other statewide positions, and the Assembly, and on the local level for mayors and city councils. Besides analyzing candidates for their positions on issues you are most interested in, it is apparently an indicator that a person’s position on all “women’s issues,” including abortion, will be more liberal if that candidate has female children, regardless of that person’s party affiliation or public statements. Using data collected by NOW and the National Right to Life Committee (the anti-choice group), a Yale professor tallied the voting scores of male legislators, and found that the more female children the legislator had, the more likely he was to lean towards a liberal, feminist position. The “daughter gap” was strongest on issues such as abortion and contraception. A handy way to assess candidates as we enter this election season. One issue will be immigration. At the recent NOW national convention, the group passed a resolution calling for NOW to support fair immigration reform, that includes at a minimum, a path to citizenship, including a reasonable timetable including especially those who do not work outside their homes; reunification of families, including LBGT families; preserving the provisions of the VAWA to protect victims of domestic violence; provisions to improve wages and working conditions to prevent further exploitation; and excluding building more prisons or fences at the border. The immigration reform bill is still in Congress who are under pressure to pass it before the election. Another issue will be Prop 85, a statewide initiative designed to restrict a minor’s right to abortion, by requiring a 48-hour waiting period after she has notified one or both of her parents before a doctor may perform abortion services. Violations are punishable by jail time. The real answer to teen pregnancy is prevention and strong, caring families – not new laws that endanger vulnerable young women. For more information, go to noon85.com. It will be this issue that brings out the conservative voters who will also then vote for governor, congress, etc. Tell all your friends about the dangers of Prop 85. It is unfortunate we have to keep fighting these attempts to restrict our constitutional protected rights, but we do!
EC Approved: The big news in August was that the Federal Food and Drug Administration had finally bowed to political pressure and approved the over the counter sale of Plan B, the so-called “morning after” pill or Emergency Contraception. That was indeed good news, as science had proven and experience in Europe for the last 35 years had shown the medication was safe for any woman if taken correctly. The Bush Administration had held up approval on the bogus reasoning that women could not be trusted to handle this medication without a prescription and it would result in legions of women engaging in sex without consequence. Finally, the refusal of Senators Clinton and Murray to allow a vote on the confirmation of the FDA chief led the administration to back down – slightly. As it turns out, women under 18 must still obtain a doctor’s prescription; the pill itself is kept behind the counter, as condoms once were; it costs between $25 and $45 per dose; it is available only in stores where there is a licensed pharmacist and only when that pharmacist is on duty. And, individual pharmacists still have control over whether they will choose to make the pill available on “conscience grounds.” The terms of approval require that pharmacies keep a log of sales, and the FDA has announced it will send anonymous shoppers in on “sting” operations to make sure no teen obtains the medication. It is teenagers who have less access to regular birth control and who are more likely to have “accidents;” who are far less likely than adult women to have a doctor available to write a prescription. Making it more difficult for the people who need it most does not make sense, unless seen from the politics of punishing young women for having a normal sex drive. Plan B is a contraceptive device, similar to a very high dose of regular birth control pills. It prevents the egg from becoming fertilized. It is interesting to note that it was only in 1960 that the first birth control pills were approved by the FDA. The Alan Guttmacher Institute estimated in 2002 that over 50,000 abortions annually are prevented by the use of EC, and that was when only about 5% of women had tried it. Now that it is generally available, the number of abortions should decrease dramatically, pleasing both sides in the great abortion debate. At the 2006 national NOW conference, one of the resolutions passed by the membership was in support of “laws and policies that ensure immediate, in-store access to birth control and which prohibit pharmacies from denying women access to birth control based on moral political or religious
Sept 19 NOW regular meeting, 6 PM Oct 5: • Sandra Day O’Connor becomes first woman US Supreme Court Justice, 1981 Oct 7-8: • Harbor Fest, Morro Bay Oct 10: • California approves votes for women, 1911 Oct 11: • birthday of Eleanor Roosevelt, 1884 • National Coming Out Day Oct 17: • birthday of Mae Jemison, first black woman astronaut, 1956 • NOW regular meeting, 6 PM Oct 18: • Love Your Body Day Oct 26: • birthday of Hillary Clinton, 1947
grounds.” Looks like we have already made good on one of our goals. After Roe: There are lots of pundits analyzing the tealeaves of the new Supreme Court. What will happen if Roe is overturned? First of all, many feel it will not be. Over 70% of Americans believe a woman should have the right to terminate her pregnancy. The numbers drop as different scenarios are mentioned, but overall there is majority support for keeping abortion legal. In the event the court does repeal its ruling that the US Constitution includes a right to privacy, there are laws at the state level already in place which would continue to prohibit restrictions on our right to choose. California is among those states, and interestingly enough, so is Florida. In 1989 their state legislature approved a law prohibiting restrictions on a woman’s right to choose. As of now, there are only 9 states where abortion would be prohibited. Far more troubling, however, is the federal law recently signed by Bush that prohibits an adult from taking a minor across state lines from a state where a parent’s consent is required to obtain an abortion in another state. Roe or not, this law remains on the books. Remember Rosie Jimenez: Rosie Jimenez was the first victim of the Hyde Amendment. In 1976, Senator Henry Hyde attached an amendment to the appropriations bill for the health and human services budget, prohibiting any public money be used to fund abortion services. Rosie was on welfare, raising her 5-year old daughter and working part time. She could not afford to pay for an abortion, so when she got pregnant in 1977, she had an illegal one. It was also unsanitary. She died in the hospital of tetanus infection. If this were just an historical anomaly it would still be horrific. But the truth is that the Senate has approved this same restrictive amendment every year since 1976. Reproduction Justice Campaign: The national NOW convention in Albany this year passed a resolution calling for an active campaign to develop an agenda to build and strengthen ties in our communities by planning joint actions to defend and protect reproductive health and reproductive rights. Our first challenge comes in this election with Proposition 85, a repeat of Prop 73 from the special election last fall. While all parents rightly want to be involved in their teenage daughters’ lives, in the real world, some teens can’t go to their parents - a major reason why Proposition 85 is wrong for California. Join with NOW and other like-minded groups to defeat this pernicious attempt to restrict access to reproductive health care.
Morro Bay Harbor Fest, October 7-8 SLO NOW’s annual fundraising event Each year, the Morro Bay Harbor Festival helps local county non-profits by sharing the proceeds for the weekend with their volunteers. For many years, SLO NOW has used this opportunity to raise additional funds for chapter activities (like peace marches and public forums) by volunteering to sell drink tickets. We need 3 people for each shift, which is usually 3
hours long, either or both days. You get in free to the Festival, which is lots of fun, has great music and craft vendors, and your help will support both NOW and the commercial fishing industry of Morro Bay. Please sign up to be a volunteer by sending an email to the chapter address (slonow@kcbx. net).
LocalPerspectives
September & October 2006 | www.womenspress-slo.org | Women’s Press
Voices Around the Table Laura V. Hyde
Heather Mendel
As I write this, I am aware of three young women in San Luis Obispo who are feeling harassed by their male bosses in the workplace. This is very unfortunate and I believe that it will continue as long as women remain silent and do not set clear boundaries or assert their rights, including seeking legal counsel. Now I realize that doing so is often com-
As one paradigm dies out, making room for another, things do not change overnight. The problems we continue to read about will persist I believe until we can educate a generation of young girls to feel totally comfortable with who they are, and teach them how to create boundaries for themselves and the tactics to employ if boundaries are crossed. We can only encourage women and girls who find themselves in such difficult circumstances, with the love and support of caring family members, to continue reporting each and every instance of this overstepping of personal boundaries with the hope that with the awareness of the public that such things continue and could happen to any one of us, there will be a groundswell that will bring about the punitive responses appropriate to the perpetrators. In Jean Shinoda Bolen’s Gather the Women and Save the World, there are some excellent examples of women taking matters such as these into their own hand in overseas countries and finding ways to embarrass the men guilty of such behavior. Perhaps we should see how such tactics could work here?
plicated; women are afraid of losing their jobs, being invalidated, and ridiculed for making a “scene.” However, since physical and verbal harassment is not an issue of sex, but of power, men who are confronted often back down. I recently spoke with a friend about this issue who is an attorney, and he informed me that there are several effective female attorneys in our county that provide legal counsel on such matters and who take an assertive, no-nonsense approach to harassment issues. Women do not have to subordinate themselves to any form of sexual harassment, and we need to remind ourselves--and each other-that we are entitled to having work places and schools that are safe for us physically and emotionally. Too many women are afraid of saying “No”: no touching, no hugging, no sexual talk, no sexual jokes. Let us remember that “No” is a complete sentence and therefore, does not require any explanation.
Roberta Youtan Kay
I think there are still many men, who are the primary perpetrators of harassment, but not exclusively, who were socialized to view women in only two ways: one, as a sexual object, and the other, as a family member, like a mother or sister. Anything else, like as an equal or business colleague, is a strange concept,. Thus, the problem continues. As far as
Why do you think sexual harassment continues to be such a problem in our schools and in the workplace? the family member association, that accounts for mostly older folks who treat women as inferior, as needing their guidance and assistance, and not to be taken seriously. Trisha Oksner
It is not standard practice to address sexual harassment in the schools and in the workplace. Until every student and employee - at every level of an organization - is exposed to this issue and how to handle problems BEFORE THEY ARISE, it will continue to plague our schools and places of employment. Jacqueline Turner
I think the question should really be: Why does POWER continue to be a problem in schools and at work? Harassment is not about SEX. Sex is a biological urge in humans and animals for the purpose of perpetuating their species. Humans are possibly the only life force where sexual urges are for entertainment as well as adding to the population. Animals just do it! POWER: Recently I went to see the Elephant Seals in their beach habitat off Highway 1 near San Simeon. The dominant (and humungous) males puff out their chests, strut their stuff, bark loudly, and intimidate other not-so-Alpha males. Of course, they bully (sexually harass) the females
of the species through force, intimidation, and POWER! Alright, so the question is ‘why does sexual harassment continue?’ To my mind, the answer is this … as long as people want to, and need to, control others; as long as people feel the need to make themselves feel ‘bigger’ by making others feel ‘smaller’; as long a s P OW E R equals strength + money + ego, sexual harassment will continue to impact the lives of both women and men. Jill Turnbow, Comedienne
For me, there is such a fine line between sexual harassment and a job perk! Seriously, though, harassers prey on the weak and easily intimidated because of their own insecurities. Deep down, men fear women and they feel sexual power gives them a leg up, so to speak. A lot of women still have a fear of authority and crumble under this harrassment. I think we all need to thicken our skin and learn to dish it back out. I have found that the quickest way to stop a man is thrugh the fine art of sarcasm. Paula Sigman
I believe that there is still this “social thing” that men think that it is still acceptable to act in a disrespectful way...I believe that it is up to the women to teach men how wrong that is! Dawn Williams
I think that sexual harassment continues on the job
and in school because women are socialized to be attractive and to take sexual overtures as a compliment, and men are threatened by women’s skills and achievements, and because — well, it’s just the nature of the beast. Me Tarzan, you Jane —even if I want to be Wonder Woman! Lynette Diaz
T h e answer to this question is undoubtedly two-fold. First, we must recognize the scientific and biological nature of humans. We need sex in order to procreate and maintain survival. That fact is innate in all of us. Whether we realize it or not, our physical, artistic and intellectual traits are equivalent to a bird’s mating call. Secondly, we must recognize the societal and cultural environments humans have made for themselves. With the emergence of global capitalism, we have evolved into a visually-based society. Why are three-year-old girls having self-esteem issues? Because her environment claims she isn’t good enough unless she acts or looks a certain way. The solution is to educate one another about the traits inherent to us that we cannot change, and then have a discussion on how to change the things we can. Angie King
The optimist in me says it’s the last gasp of the old patriarchal culture attempting to keep their hegemony, but the pessimist says harassment continues because we let it. Women are not doing enough to educate and support each other to force a real change in that culture.
The Wonder of It All
News in Brief Older Women and Poverty Here come the baby boomers, retiring earlier and living longer, but apparently not any richer. In fact, poorer. According to an AARP Public Policy Institute study, older women will suffer higher rates of poverty than men. Women’s income is generally lower than men’s, across the board. Therefore, their retirement earnings will be less. For women age 65 and older, their median retirement income is just slightly more than 1/2 that of their male counterparts. That income ($11,816) is barely above the official poverty threshold. One-eighth of women 65 and older are in poverty; for minorities, that number is even greater. Nine out of 10 white and black women depend on Social Security as their only source of income. In many cases, it is the only reason the poverty rates for older women aren’t even higher. The AARP study showed that Social Security benefits paid to almost 40% of older women managed to raise their income above poverty level. Fair Housing Laws Protect Battered Women October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Many women do not leave their abusive situations because they have nowhere to go. Between 22 and 57 percent of homeless women identify DV as their primary cause of homelessness. Others are evicted from rental housing after DV altercations,
sending an unfair message that they must keep quiet or risk losing their shelter. There are federal laws that seek to remedy some of this injustice. The Violence Against Women Act, recently re-authorized, prohibits evictions from publicly subsidized housing because the tenant is or has been a victim of DV or stalking and provides for bifurcation of the voucher to permit her to stay once he has been removed. The Fair Housing Act covers private housing discrimination and provides that discrimination against a victim of DV is a form of sex discrimination and is prohibited. Discrimination can take the form of gender stereotyping (she caused the abuse and she can stop it anytime) or in the form of disparate impact (evicting her because the violence took place where she lives). In addition, there are state laws that protect the housing rights of DV survivors. California has a number of provisions in the Welfare and Institutions Code that exempt victims of DV from requirements to be eligible for public benefits, but does not directly prohibit eviction for suffering DV. If you are or know someone who is the victim of domestic violence, know there are laws to protect her from being evicted. The first step is to call the Women’s Shelter at 781-6400.
Global ShortTakes Colombia. That nation’s highest court overturned the ban on abortion, calling it “irrational, ” and ruling the procedure legal in cases of rape, incest, if the life of the woman is in danger, or if the fetus is expected to die. Latin American feminists were heartened by the decision, seeing new opportunities to use the courts. South Africa. Former national Deputy President Jacob Zuma, 64, was found not guilty of raping a 31year-old HIV-positive AIDS activist and longtime friend. He testified that the woman signaled she wanted intercourse by wearing a skirt and sitting with her legs uncrossed, “obliging” him, as a traditional Zulu man, to have sex with her. Greece. The Greek police won’t gain any more female officers. The Council of State has ruled that only 15 percent of police academy recruits should be women, noting that his figure was sufficient “because of the wellknown biological differences.” Portugal. Parliament passed a government-backed law mandating that at least one-third of candidates from any political party involved in national or local elections be women. Approximately 25 percent of parliamentary seats are currently held by women.
Young and Old Alike By Hilda Heifetz
“Aging Is a Lifelong Affair” ...? A friend of mine in Santa Barbara wrote a book by that title, and way back then it blew my long-held pre-conception. For over sixty years, I’d been carrying around the notion that I would think about aging “when I got there.” Although I was already over sixty, I felt I still had plenty of time. But this book (even just the title) was telling me that life was a process with no artificial segments marking the end of one stage and the beginning of another. Well, it took me a little while to see what this meant for me and others. We were, in reality, living beings meant to develop as a whole in the context of time. There was no sudden occurrence of old age. I would naturally unfold according to my being and becoming. I found this very good news. Not only would I worry less, but I could develop a new attitude. I felt more encouraged to laugh, a tendency that has helped me deal with life. Surely, aging doesn’t have to be a GRAVE SUBJECT! Now there’s gravity and there’s gravity. At my age (92), I know there’s the gravity that pulls down softening tissue, that lowers body parts, even my height. But the gravity I’m talking about here refers to great seriousness.
This kind of gravity I want to treat with levity. I want to make light of such heaviness. I value the leavening of humor, for it raises my spirit to a height where I can see a larger picture revealing more options and promises. Of course, everything isn’t sweetness and light. We cannot always find the redeeming features (RF Factors, I call them.) Thought optimists are said to see the cup as half-full and pessimists see it as half-empty, both can also be said to be in some state of denial. Realists know that the cup is both. Yet knowing this, it does help to be cheerful, whenever possible. And when I think about the contents of the years being a mixed bag, I recall my friend’s reaction to her cataract surgery. Not exactly complaining, she admitted that, with the luxury of improved eyesight, she now saw wrinkles never seen before. And though I also know of my own wrinkles, another friend surprised me by asking where I was hiding them. I had to thank her for reading “between the lines.” Young and old, all in all, though in different ways, have aging in common. And, really, it doesn’t have to be a grave subject.
LocalPerspectives
Women’s Press September & October 2006 | editors@womenspress-slo.org
Commit to Nurturing Your Life
Homeschooling - Part 4
By Susan Wood
By Elizabeth McGregor
Recognize your strengths and connect to your inner knowingness.
“Life coach—what’s a life coach?” is probably the most frequent response I get when people ask me what I do. The short answer is that a life coach supports a person in excelling is his or her life just as a sports coach supports an athlete in excelling in a sport. Our lives have become increasingly busy and seemingly complicated, and there’s a great tendency to run from one thing to the next on “auto-pilot,” with little time spent on reflection. Running “programs” that no longer serve us, we can forget what is really important and can feel confused about what we need to feel fulfilled in our lives. Many of us have a vague (or not so vague) feeling of discontent—even when there appears to be little that is wanting in our lives. If you want a beautiful garden, one that brings beauty, joy, and satis-
faction—you tend it carefully—planting seeds, pulling weeds, watering and fertilizing, and nurturing. To produce a life of joy and fulfillment, we need to nurture ourselves and our lives in the same way. Hiring a life coach is making a commitment to nurture your life—to grow your life like a beautiful garden—and to reflect on what you want in that garden. The coaching relationship is an ongoing relationship of mutual respect and trust that brings clarity, commitment, and action. You set the agenda for each coaching session. The coach will ask questions, based on your statements, to help you look forwards rather than backwards. During this process of inquiry, the coach facilitates your discovery of values and vision for what you want in your life. The coach helps you open your awareness to new options, focus on what you want, and set goals and intentions. Part of the coaching process is for you and your coach to agree on actions you are willing to take to move toward your goals. The coach will then follow up with you at your next coaching session. The coaching process also helps
you recognize your strengths, uncover and move through any limiting beliefs, get “unstuck,” and find inspiration, motivation, and a deeper connection to your own inner “knowingness.” Every step of the way, the coach is there to cheer your accomplishments and to challenge you to continue to move forward. With the support of a good life coach, clients take charge of their lives, become accountable, learn to align to what they value, live more consciously, take action, and discover a life purpose. Coaches help clients get positive results and find fulfillment in all areas of their lives—professional, financial, physical, intellectual, relational, and spiritual. Susan Wood is a Certified Life Coach living in Morro Bay. She usually coaches by telephone and serves clients across the country. She will happily provide a free session for anyone wanting to explore what coaching with her is about. You can find out more at www.susanwoodlifecoach.com or by calling Susan at 805771-9706.
CynicsCorner
Being Single in San Luis Obispo By Jacqueline Turner
I’m single! When you are fifty-nine and living in an area like San Luis Obispo, you may be in trouble. This is an area not known for its single scene, and fifty-nine is not an age known for being a ‘hottie’ … although I am, and so are my friends! Here’s my problem: Once I eliminate the marrieds, the attached, the gays, the elderly, the students, the fundamentalists, the cowboys, the hunters, the shooters, the vacationers, the homeless, the meth, alcohol & drug addicts, the conservative right, the radical left, the sexual perverts, the former members of ASH, the members of the Men’s’ Colony, the non-English speaking, the low lifes, the unemployed, and the underemployed … there are possibly three eligible men left and they are impotent, impoverished, immature, or otherwise unavailable, and they are not interested in me. Why? Even they want younger! So, what is an older eligible woman supposed to do with her libido in a town like this? Many of us join Internet dating services. My friends all said ‘go on Match/Harmony and you will meet the man of your dreams.’ What
I found on Match was that if the men knew where SLO was, they never come here, or they want to but can’t find ten traveling hours. Also, they don’t read well. My bio says that I am an animal lover, spiritual not religious, not terribly into exercise, love great food, and would rather die than camp. So, who answers my ad? Guys who own guns; guys who want to know if I attend church on Sunday; guys who love to eat and sleep and urinate outdoors; guys who run, walk, bike, hike at least ten miles/hours a day, and who only want a vegan! As for Harmony … I labored over this extensive profile that took me over two hours to fill out, and you know what they told me? “Sorry, we cannot find a match for you at this time.” And ‘this time’ lasted for many months, until they matched me with a guy from Idaho! No joke, really. Why? Because we both mentioned liking movies in our profiles! I like potatoes, too, but that doesn’t mean that I would have a lot in common with a potato farmer from Idaho. What’s a girl to do? I realize that I chose SLO for the cows and the weather. I knew I would be paid only
in “Paradise dollars,” but I believed that there would be at least one cover here for my pot! My New York mother promised me that that would always happen. Obviously, my mother never heard of San Luis Obispo! To get herself off the hook, my mom tried to pack me off to Boca Raton to find a rich, retired cover for my overfed pot. They pay in hot sticky “Paradise dollars” there, too. I said “No, thank you.” So, SLO is not the senior dating Mecca of the world; so desirable and available men are in very short supply here; so I am not in the age group that make most men giddy … but, women my age are lovely and intelligent and independent and funny and extremely fantastic and young at heart. Sorry, men of San Luis Obispo … if you don’t recognize the beauty in all that … then you may not be smart or worldly enough for the women of San Luis Obispo! Meanwhile, I will be vacationing with my friends in Miami … care to join us?! Hugs, Jackie Turner
Did You Know?... by Gina Whitaker, Recruitment Coordinator, Community Counseling Center
Community Counseling Center is here for you! Since 1968, we have been providing low cost therapy, based on your ability to pay, for low income and uninsured people in the county. Our agency is staffed by three dedicated folks—Binah Polay, Executive Director; Gina Whitaker, Recruitment Coordinator; and Jeff Bringle, Administrative Assistant. But what makes us truly unique is the fact that our staff of super licensed and pre-licensed therapists is an all volunteer staff! This means they really want to be here, giving back to our Central Coast community. We have therapy sites available in
SLO, North, and South County. We serve children, teens, couples, families and individuals. At Community Counseling Center, you can be assured of having a safe space and environment where you can work out life’s mysteries and problems, and grow to become the best person possible. It takes your time and commitment, but we are here to assist you on your path! In late September, we will be starting a group just for women reentering the single life! “Moving Beyond Divorce” will be facilitated by LyLan Lofgren, MSW, and will meet at Community Counseling Center weekly on either Monday evenings
or Saturday afternoons according to needs of attendees. This open group will address issues of divorce, including independence, termination of marriage, and new financial, parenting, and relationship concerns. THIS IS NOT A DROP-IN GROUP. Call Gina or Jeff at CCC to indicate your interest in coming: 543-7969. If you or your family need counseling, or if you are a licensed psychologist, MFT or social worker who wants to offer therapy services to your community through our non-profit, please call us today!
Most people would agree that our public schools have major problems that need attention. They are overcrowded, under-funded, and generally mismanaged. Is it any wonder that parents who are able to, are homeschooling their children in everincreasing numbers? Online resources for homeschoolers are abundant, especially those who are interested in a Christian-based curriculum. There are several comprehensive websites that will guide parents through the process, from the initial decision to home educate, right through to the SATs. They are great resources for ideas, curriculum, support, and materials. Three of the most complete websites that I found are Homeschool. com (www.homeschool.com), The American Homeschool Association (www.americanhomeschoolassociation.org) and The Homeschool Zone (www.homeschoolzone.com) And if you can’t find the help you need there, see if your school district has an Independent Study Program. There are also Virtual Academies. These tuition-free public schools work with the state and local school districts to provide the best of both the homeschool and public school worlds. They provide an opportunity for flexible, independent instruction combined with the assistance and accountability of a state agency. I found a great deal of information on the California Virtual Academy website (www.caliva. org). But for most parents, home education is not an option. After all, someone must stay at the home with the student a majority of the time to teach and supervise them. And as most of us know--it can be a struggle making ends meet with two incomes, let alone one. So if you are a working parent
who is dissatisfied with our public schools and unable to afford private or home education, what do you do? I believe the answer lies in getting involved. I often hear parents complain about schools, teachers and student workloads. But just how involved are we really in our children’s education? We might quiz them on a few spelling words or answer a question or two that comes up, but is that level of involvement enough? I think we need to go back to school. Seriously, take a couple of mornings off from your job this fall to go to your child’s school for a closer look. Get to know their teacher and classmates. Volunteer to read to the students or help with lessons. Chaperone a field trip. Most teachers welcome parents who want to assist and the more familiar you are with the school environment, the better equipped you will be to ask your child the right questions, address his concerns, and evaluate his performance. We all talk about how important education is in our society, but what are we actually doing for our kids? A child’s schooling does not stop when the bell rings. It is the parent’s responsibility to not only help their children with their homework, but to become involved in the education process. You may be disappointed in our public schools, or frustrated that you cannot homeschool your child full-time, but you can arm yourself with an attitude of communication and involvement that will benefit both you and your child. Elizabeth McGregor is a freelance copywriter and designer and working mother of two children in public school. She can be reached through her website at www.writingfinelines.com.
The Power of Being For By Barbara Atkinson
Recently I’ve been experimenting with a different perspective in regards to the ills of the world and the varying opinions and statements of pundits and leaders. Old enough to have participated in the protest movements of the late 60’s and 70’s, I recall the torrent of verbal anger with which we assaulted each other in discussing civil rights, or the war, or machismo men who “had no clue.” At a rally or march, a speaker would articulate that anger and our need to stand fast. Collectively, we made our point. Yet now, either in personal interchanges, groups, or at peace rallies, I find I’m not interested in tearing down President Bush or the religious right or spewing anger about the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the myriad of injustices existing in our country and our world. This is not because I agree with their perspectives or don’t care about these things. No. Today I come to you suggesting a shift of attention. It’s very slight, yet I think if you try it on and carry it through to every aspect of your life, as Gandhi said, you will “become the change you want to see…”
Be for peace, for justice, for equality, for nature, and against nothing and no one. With this shift you are for all the things that concern and affect you at the same time that you support and work for the changes you wish to see in yourself, our leaders, and in our world. Notice how you felt when you read those words. Did it softly resonate yet carry power? Perhaps you don’t like this shift. That’s ok. Though, if it makes you angry you might want to notice where inside you that anger is coming from, where it’s held in your body. But if this perspective speaks to you, play with these words in your mind as you use “being for” something in all the ways it might apply to your life and opinions. Notice your body and how you feel when you express “being for.” It’s simple really. Be for yourself, for others, for kindness, for being present to each moment, and against nothing and no one. One small shift for you; one giant awakening for humankind!
WomenatWork
September & October 2006 | www.womenspress-slo.org | Women’s Press
Mind Your Business:
Choosing a Small Business Advisor
Are You Breathing? By Dianne Legro
By Andrea Zeller
It’s important when choosing a business advisor to find one with a good reputation you can build a good relationship with and who can address several different aspects of your business. Select an advisor that listens and that you can effectively interact with. Interview a few different advisors to be sure you select one that is right for you. If you choose your advisor well, he or she will become an important part of your business, and you should be together for the life-time of your business. After all, business planning is an ongoing activity! Determine Your Needs Being clear on your needs up front will help you connect with the right expertise. Maybe it is accounting, finance, legal, marketing, and human resources, or basic start-up orientation. Although there are experts in each area, a good business advisor should serve as an anchor and help you bring in additional expertise when necessary. Get a referral. Ask your friends and business associates for recommendations – or ask for references from people who own businesses similar to your own. How to Find a Business Advisor Once you are clear on your specific needs and you’ve sought out referrals, no doubt you’ve run across recommendations to seek help from one of your local U.S. Small Business Administration resource partners. San Luis Obispo is fortunate to have a strong support system for small businesses. There are many private sector advisors that will assist you for a fee; there is also a strong network of SBAsponsored advisory programs here in SLO supported by your tax dollars. They are: Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) SBDCs, SBA’s largest resource partner, enhances economic development by providing small businesses with
management and technical assistance. There are more than 1,100 SBDC lead and service centers located around the country. Locally, Cuesta College hosts an SBDC that provides business counseling services and workshops. (805) 549-0401 or www.smallbusinessinfo.org. Women’s Business Centers (WBCs) Women’s Business Centers represent a national network of more than 90 educational centers designed to assist women start and grow small businesses. WBCs operate with the mission to level the playing field for women entrepreneurs, who still face unique obstacles in the world of business. Locally, Mission Community Services has a pending application with SBA to host an SBA-sponsored WBC here in San Luis Obispo. MCSC, through its Women’s Business Partners Program, is already providing entrepreneurial education and support to SLO’s business women and has been well supported by the local SBA Fresno District Office. Reach MCSC and the Women’s Business Partners at 805 595-1357 or www.MCSCorp.org Se Habla Espanol Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) You can also get personal free expert advice and counseling through a volunteer organization called SCORE, a locally-chartered volunteer organization sponsored by the US Small Business Administration, which provides free expert problem-solving assistance to small businesses. Locally, 805 5470779 or www.sloscore.org. SBA District Offices In addition to its resource partners, the SBA operates full service district offices in every state of the country. The SBA Fresno District office serves all of Central CA including SLO. You may reach them toll free at (800) 359-1833 then press 6 or http://www. sba.gov/ca/fresno/index.html.
Andrea Zeller, Executive Director of Mission Community Services, coordinates Women’s Business Partners (WBP) to ensure all community resources are leveraged and optimized to support entrepreneurial women. WBP serves everyone interested in establishing selfsufficiency through small business ownership while primarily focusing assistance towards socially and economically disadvantaged women. WBP can take you step by step towards success and can help those who speak only Spanish. Visit www.MCSCorp.org or call 595-1357 to find out more.
I’m not joking. For most of us our response to stress is prolonged shallow breathing and actual stopped breath. Just notice right now whether you are breathing deeply or hardly at all. If the latter is true, please take in a deep abdominal breath. Right now. Our shallow/stopped breath is part of our natural fight-or-flight response. Living modern lives, we have a great deal of intense stimuli. Responding to phones, buzzers, messaging, conferencing, driving, and more has us breathing in a “defensive” shallow mode throughout most of our day. It is one of the major reasons we are physically and mentally so tired at the end of the day. We are toxic from not cleaning our circulatory system with good fresh oxygen. The Good News My tip for you to try this week is to make a habit of what I call ‘Living on the Inhale”- breathing IN to life’s presenting moments. By noticing and becoming aware of the key stressors that affect you, you can teach yourself
to automatically breathe IN instead of holding and stopping your breath when they occur. When you do this you will retain your quick-thinking ability longer in your day, you will avoid burnout, and you will stay more resilient and connected to your feelings and intuition for better decision making. Most importantly, you will feel much more vital and able. Take your breath in when your phone rings, when your name is called, when it’s your turn to present yourself in a meeting. Enjoy the rich rewards of “Living on the Inhale.” You will become In-spired. Dianne Legro helps clients achieve solid rapport with their audiences, live and in radio and television appearances. Her essays and articles have been reprinted extensively. As a speaker she gives Keynotes on Creativity, Leadership, Communication Skills, Marketing via Speaking, and Expanding the Spirit. Contact her office at 805-534-9535 for one to one coaching and corporate group training programs. Visit diannelegro.com.
Live on the inhale. Become in-spired.
YourCareer
Frustrated in Current Job? By Denise Nickeson
Don’t quit! This will leave you with fewer options. Since I’m not sure exactly what your frustrations are, be it the work, the people, the company’s values/philosophies, or something else, a place to start is your current job. Are there aspects of your current job you do enjoy? (e.g., projects that involve writing, work that involves collaborating with others to achieve a goal or produce a product? work that gives you an opportunity to be creative?) Is there an opportunity to do more of the projects you like doing? Can you talk to your supervisor about picking up new responsibilities? Can you transfer to another department? Explore your options to improve your current situation. Every job has an upside, even if it only some financial security. If you still want to make a change, take some time for reflection. You might consider starting a journal. Begin by asking yourself these questions: Do you prefer working with people, things, or information? Is there something I’ve always been good at but have done primarily as a hobby? Is there something you particularly enjoyed doing as a kid? Is there something someone told you or (tells you
I’m feeling really frustrated at my current job, and I’ d like to make a change, but I’m just not sure what else I’ d be good at. Every time I think about quitting, I get scared.
now) that you are particularly good at? If you looked in the future 10-20 years, is there something that comes up that you really want to do or experience? Is there something you would love to do if money, obligations and responsibilities or other worries or concerns were not an issue? What type of work would you pursue if success were guaranteed? All these questions need to be fleshed out until you can come up with some specific fields and occupations. Enlist the support of a friend or partner to help you. Brainstorm with him or her until you can narrow down the possibilities. Then start your research. Go and talk to people who are doing what you think you might want to do. Get the good, the bad and the ugly. Talk to more than one person. Find out their career path. What challenges did they face? How did they
overcome them? Could you use your favorite skills and natural abilities in this new profession? If so great! If not, you may want to keep searching. In addition to the above, our local community college has low-cost tests and questionnaires used by career counselors that can help assess your skills and interests. Low cost tests are also available on the Internet. The Private Industry Council’s website www. jobhunt.org has a good list on their resources page. Denise Nickeson’s background includes working as an employment trainer/job coach for an occupational training center as well as a personnel manager and corporate trainer for desktop support services company in Silicon Valley. She is available for private career assessment and job coaching services. You can reach her at dnickeson@hotmail.com
Healing Continued From the Cover
have because of their surgeries will be offered. Yoga provides techniques that can help teach the body to relax, as many of us have obviously lost that ability. Through guided visualizations and proper breathing guidelines, learning how to “stop” can result in some surprisingly positive changes. Simple relaxation tools that can be easily taught are invaluable to improved quality of life and also overall health and healing. One of the most well respected cancer hospitals, MD Anderson in Houston, states “Comprehensive medical care must take into account not only the biologic dimensions of an illness, but also the psychological
and social factors that can affect the whole person.” Through different media, retreat attendees will create collages, practice journaling, and make music. Joanne Ruggles, retired Cal Poly art professor, nationally acclaimed artist and breast cancer survivor, will lead the collage sessions; Pam McCully, local writer and teacher, will lead the journaling sessions; Marisa Wadell, wellknown KCBX radio personality, will lead the percussion/music sessions; and Shoosh Crotzer, master yoga teacher, will lead the yoga classes. Attendees will also learn about lymphedema and ways to help prevent, diagnose, and manage it. They will learn
the importance of exercise, what type of exercise to avoid, what type is recommended; and they will learn therapeutic routines and techniques to improve breathing and relaxation and reduce stress. All data evaluations will be compiled by Dr. George Stanton, also a retired Cal Poly professor. If you are interested in participating, the application deadline is September 15, 2006. There will be a sliding scale so no one will be denied on the basis of finances. Those unable to attend will be placed on a priority list for our next retreat. For further information, call Enhancement at 771-8640.
Something to ponder...
Women’sStories
Women’s Press September & October 2006 | editors@womenspress-slo.org
Locks of Love
UnsungHeroine
Jean Gerard Poet and Activist
A Gift to Others and Self By Helena Bresk
ill, I decided it was time for some rite of passage, some physical acknowledgement of moving on and helping others. This was on May 31st. Having heard of Locks of Love in 2005, I decided it was time to cut off my hip-length hair and move it on to a new home. My dear friend and hair stylist Debra Angell suggested I might Helena and Debra before the cut postpone an appointment, as Mercury was In the past, when I have lost my loved so ill, but it felt imperative to do this, ones to Spirit, I’ve grieved deeply to bring support and love to someone albeit somewhat silently. It’s always else in my grief. seemed that there was something so Mercury passed on June 2nd wrong, that I couldn’t get a hold of it, peacefully for him, painfully for me, so I pushed it deep inside. but a new head of hair was born for I am a spiritual person who a child who has lost hair because of believes that the soul lives on and on. illness. So with this act, I released With this in mind, it became time this my beloveds to Spirit and asked their year, at the age of 51, to turn my grief blessing along with the hair of faith, to in to something positive. bring new joy and comfort to someA half dozen or so people and ani- one in their hours of need. mals I dearly loved have passed on The joy of giving a part of myself this year. When Mercury, (my dar- to someone else has given me a great ling 6-year old black cat) was very gift and new resolve to open into a
By Berta Parrish
greater awareness of all dimensions, as well as remind me of the frailty of all life and lives. If you have long hair, this is a very powerful way to help. Namaste and blessings to all. Helena Bresk, Healer of Animals and Humans. Pegasusunl@yahoo.com Locks of Love is a national nonprofit organization that provides custom-fitted hairpieces to children suffering from medical hair loss. Since it was founded in 1997, Locks of Love has helped more than 1,400 children. Most suffer from alopecia areata, a condition in which a person’s immune system attacks the body’s hair follicles, resulting in permanent hair loss. Burn victims and radiation patients also have been served. Donations are accepted as either ponytails or braids at least 10 inches long. Bleached hair cannot be used, although permed and color-treated hair is fine. Contact them at info@locksoflove. org or call (561) 963-1677 or fax (561) 963-9914
A Q&A with Judy Vick On Running for Office By Renee Sanpei
Judy Vick ran for the Board of County Supervisors earlier this year. She was unknown to most of her constituency, the only female, and had much less financial backing than the other two candidates. She took the lead on supporting renewable energy and affordable housing. It was a challenging three-way race against seasoned candidates and yet she was endorsed by the Tribune, the Sierra Club, and the United Domestic Workers Union. She garnered a lot of support not only from liberals but also from Republicans. I asked Judy if she would like to convey some of her experiences about her first political race.
What were some of the gifts of this experience? By far, the wonderful people I met -- so many dedicated people who care deeply about our communities and our environment. So many people gave of their time, their talent and financial means to preserve our quality of life. I am deeply grateful to them for their support. Other gifts: • Giving a voice to issues that people care about, but that other politicians hesitate to address. • Speaking up for vulnerable populations. • Discovering the courage that comes with running and putting yourself on the line. Mark Twain once said, “Courage is the mastery of fear, not the absence of fear.” • Pride in doing it my way–run-
ning a clean campaign–despite pressure to do politics as usual. How would you do things differently next time? • I would start a year ahead, with an established campaign team and network of supporters. • If I could, I would devote myself completely to the campaign. During my campaign, I continued to work full-time. It was quite a challenge balancing work and the campaign. • Running my second time, I would have more name recognition, which is very important to winning. • Hopefully obtain a campaign manager and treasurer from the beginning. I flew by the seat of my pants and wore all hats for months! Continued on VICK, page 10
Sharon Beery
Running for Congress By Renee Sanpei
Sharon Beery is running for Congress. After a career as an educator and in real estate, she decided – rather than just complain about the state of our country – to put herself in a position to make some changes. She is a busy mother and grandmother and turned to her family for support. They gave her their vote of confidence to pursue this endeavor and she and her husband have been on the campaign trail ever since. Being a Republican up until 2003, Sharon found herself “not liking what I was seeing.” I heard Dennis Kucinich speak and that inspired me. I became active instead of doing nothing.” She worked on his campaign and got elected to the Democratic Central Committee. She became president of
the South County Democratic Club for 2005. She also became the state delegate of the Democratic State party in 2004 and was encouraged to run for Congress at that point. I asked Sharon what differences she saw between Democrats and Republicans. “Democrats are more laid back. They want desperately to win, and should, but what they don’t understand is that they can’t wait for the other guy to do it. My way is not to just talk it but walk it.” And that is what has been winning over both Republicans and Democrats alike in her campaign. “People want to talk about the issues, make change and get our country back, but they feel helpless. When they see that someone is willing to rep-
resent them, they’re grateful.” She told me that men have indicated that they’d like to see more women in office. “We have to get rid of this macho attitude,” this language that wages war and stirs hatred and alienation. What are the major concerns of constituents? 1. Getting out of Iraq 2. Impeachment. The desire to get rid of this entire administration. 3. Health care and education 4. Recreating a democracy; spying, lying, and having a President ignore Congress and the Constitution is not
The music of flutes and drums is called gagaku. The projected images are beautiful ancient Japanese prints. The performers retelling the intriguing Japanese novel, The Tale of Genji, are wearing exquisite kimonos. This was the scene at Linnaea’s Café in San Luis Obispo on August 2nd when four local poets read from the poetic version written recently by an American writer in Los Osos. How was the world’s first romantic novel recreated? The answer lies in the convergence of a commitment to nonviolence and feminism, an extensive knowledge of Japan, a rare talent and a desire to share important insights. This convergence is Jean Gerard, poet, writer, and activist. The Tale of Genji was written by a woman named Murasaki Shikibu 1000 years ago and is over 1000 pages in its English translation. Jean wanted to bring the life and times of ancient Japan, especially the role of women, alive for modern audiences. Her Genji Poems, a cycle of 140 poems with over 100 characters, written over a period of thirteen months, indicates that feminism started a long time ago. With a Master’s Degree in English, Jean accepted a position at Wakayama University in Japan in the sixties, where she taught English for thirteen years, studied Japanese culture, and led exchange programs during summer vacations. At the time, she often heard about The Tale of Genji but it didn’t capture her imagination until she had more free time. “I’m happy to have the chance to stop spinning, and at age 92 to have time to think, to read, to listen and to consider. For me, the active life is not compatible with writing,” says Jean. She is now writing poetry and prose consistently. Her active life, teaching overseas and dedication to social causes, have influenced the topics, style, and message of her writing today. Having three sons old enough for military service in the late fifties and early sixties introduced Jean to the peace movement. Both before she a democracy. She said that Republicans are expressing concern that not only did the Bush administration steal the country but “they stole the Republican Party.” People want to overcome the politics and become Americans, working toward the same goals. “If we don’t change, we’re lost. My message is to remember that they (Congress) are working for us. We do not work for them. I care what you think. I want to hear from you. I’m there to be your voice.” Campaigns are arduous and Sharon is grateful for her husband’s constant support as well as the people she has met and shared concerns with. “People will feel so good and ener-
went to Japan and after she returned, she worked for the Women’s Strike for Peace, the Committee for a SANE Nuclear Policy, the Nuclear Weapons Freeze Campaign and the American Friends Service Committee, a Quaker pacifist organization. Later she began writing editorials for the Pasadena Weekly at the time when she was a part-time secretary for the Garvey School District Teachers Union in Los Angeles. She retired three years ago. She has just completed a charming children’s book filled with humor, rhyme, and facts about fish. Besides delighting children with the poetry and extending their vocabulary through word play, the book teaches children not to pollute the very waters that breed these fascinating creatures. Add ecology to Jean’s activism. Jean continues to write because she secretly hopes to change the world. She is “interested in trying to express some of the best of what I think, know, feel, or have discovered.” The audience at Linnaea’s and the readers of her poetry are glad that she is sharing the insights of a long life well lived. Her continued commitment to peace through poetry is illustrated in the following poem.
Chasing a Grain of Rice She was an old woman in farm clothes bent over like a broom-straw curled from so much sweeping. Barefoot even in winter chill, she crept from woodpile to kitchen, arms full of rice straw for kindling and faggots to feed the fire. The iron pot of rice steamed fragrant on the cook stove and the soup and fish were ready. We ate in silent thankfulness for food and drink. As we put down our chopsticks, docking them carefully like boats on their little china racks, she paused to remind us of the war while chasing one last grain of rice around the edge of her empty bowl.
gize themselves if they take action and believe that ‘we’ can win.” It is a large district, covering Kern, Lancaster, and L.A. counties as well as parts of SLO county. She tells me that here at home, support has been slow in coming. Elsewhere, she’s garnered strong support. We spoke about campaign reform. “People tend to believe that if I don’t have money, I can’t win. Where along the way did they convince us that this is true? Like $500,000 equals 500,000 votes. We need to get rid of big money and have public financing.” Contact the Sharon Beery for Congress Campaign (805) 473-2762 or www.sharonbeeryforcongress.com.
CreativeWomen
September & October 2006 | www.womenspress-slo.org | Women’s Press
The Women’s Community Center would like to convey our deepest gratitude to those of you who helped celebrate the
We are uplifted by the support of this wonderful community of entertainers, artists, and volunteers who continually give of their time and talents. The entertainment was superb and enjoyed by so many. We hope that this creative spirit will continue to grow and be nurtured in our community. It is a wonderful experience to have the opportunity to express ourselves creatively and our hope is that it will inspire and bring joy to others. If you are interested in supporting future events like this, please contact us at the Women’s Community Center at 544-9313.
Many thanks to the performers: 1. Sheri Odenwald 2. Triad, featuring Fran Dukehart, Francesca Nemko and Grady Houser 3. Mary Donnelly and the Tribal Mundo Dancers 4. Jennifer Young and Travis Larson 5. Karen Tyler 6. The Motowners, featuring Dave Ottenberg, Frank & Romi West, Doug Fredericks, Cheryl Iona, Randy Crowser, Karen Tyler, Helen Edwards, and the drummer, Dave.
1
2
3
5
6
Thanks, too, to “Sacred Skin, and Arba Wa.” And special thanks to the folks at for keeping the show on the road.
4
Circle Connections: Ann Smith Part II By Beverly Engel
In the last issue of Women’s Press I interviewed Ann Smith, one of the founders of the Millionth Circle along with Jean Shinoda Bolen, myself and several other circle leaders. Ann has recently formed Circle Connections, along with Rhonda Hull and Carol Hansen Grey.
Our interview continues: Beverly: “You mentioned that one of the projects within Circle Connections is the Indigenous Women’s Pathways program that was created by Indigenous women for Indigenous women. You talked about the program being brought to Alaska last February. Can you talk more about this?” Ann Smith: “The Indigenous Women’s Pathways program (IWP) that was started several years ago was able to go to Alaska because my friend the Rev. Ginny Doctor, a Mohawk leader, received a grant to conduct the program through the Native American office of the Episcopal Diocese of Alaska. When we did the program in Utah and Montana, we had lots of written materials about racism such as what causes it, how it affects people— a lot of left brain stuff. We wanted to explore questions such as, “What is racism?” But circles once again taught us a valuable lesson. We learned to get rid of the paperwork when we discovered that what the people really
needed was to tell their stories. Beverly: “It is amazing how powerful the simplicity of the circle can be. I’m reminded of this over and over. We tend to complicate things so much when all most of us really want and need is to be listened to.” Ann Smith: “Absolutely. One of the powerful experiential exercises in IWP is creating a timeline in the form of a circle. Participants were able to put their own personal history and the entire history of their people in a circular timeline and to see how history affected their personal lives. For example, they were able to see how events in history— such as the1493 Roman Catholic Papal Bull declaration that authorized all Christians to go forth and conquer all the lands of people of the non-White world—were juxtaposed with events in native history— such as genocide, mandatory boarding schools where many Indigenous children were sexually abused, alcoholism, and incest. This helped them to understand more about internalized
racism and why such problems as alcohol abuse and incest are so prominent in their culture. By the end of our time together, the grandmothers came to strongly believe that they were the only ones who could stop these problems. They realized they needed to bring back the language and the old ways, such as traditional dancing, drumming, food, herbal medicines, and circling. They decided to take their program all over Alaska, raising their own money. As they explained, “If we don’t do it now, our culture will be gone.” Beverly: “Yes, it is ironic that you were able to remind them of the power of their own tradition. After all, we got the idea of meeting in circle from native people.” Ann Smith: “Yes, Ginny Doctor wrote in a theological paper that it took her making a friend with a white woman to believe in their Indigenous way of being in circle. Now she and others are bringing back the circle to their people.”
10
Women’sStories
Aging Gracefully By Francesca Nemko
What does it mean, aging gracefully? Does it mean “letting it all hang out,” Or, not letting it all hang out? Covering up, making believe There’s nothing changing. Still feeling l6 When my body is screaming I’m not l6! Nor 35! Nor even 50! Pay attention to what needs to be addressed — NOW. It’s not the same, nowhere the same As it used to be. What once worked for me Is useless, arcane, out of date. But, oh, I loved that me That me who smiled so brightly Whose eyes glowed green and invitingly Whose supple body was a delight to behold Never to grow old (even gracefully) The time has come, though To reevaluate what it means To love myself no matter what Love the lines, the crevices, the weakening bones and joints The dimmer eyes, what a surprise to me Who never thought I’d change that much Be so out of touch with reality The reality of an aging physical form. The time has come, as a walrus once said To talk of many things Such as what to eat, and what not to eat When to run around, and when to rest, take a nap (just like a kid) You’ve earned it, I tell myself Yet it’s still hard to “give in” So, I continue to live in denial Still eat those corn chips that used to satisfy But now react within to remind me That nothing’s the same in there! I cannot fool myself another minute Relax and let my body rest From all the adjustments it’s had to make to accommodate my willful ways. Why do I keep thinking I’m invincible Different from my sisters Who do gracefully age, become wise old sages And pass on their expertise and experience To the next generation. That’s what I should be doing Instead of “holding on” to something That’s basically gone forever! that youth game any more Oh, oh, oh, I said it, finally I said it Phew! what a relief, form a new belief I let the proverbial cat out of the bag In aging gracefully, which for me Admitted to being an old hag (well, not really, but it rhymed) Is letting go of the past -- gratefully. Still, it feels good to say it And not have to play it
Nourishing Moments By Jeanie Greensfelder
An Amateur
When I told my artist friend Phil that I bought some tempera paints and adored splashing color to paper, he said, “You’re an amateur.” My face dropped until he said, “But the word amateur comes from the French word ‘amare,’ to love. Amateurs work because they love it and it brings them pleasure. Professionals acquire credentials and work for money.” Phil’s comments come to mind when I delight in paints or pursue other heart wishes. I’m pleased to be an amateur! Notice the things you love to do. Might you do them more often?
Yearning for a Mom
On a visit to our infant granddaughter Julia, we enjoyed pampering her, anticipating what she might want and providing it for her. Andy and I came home wanting bouncy chairs for grownups, big wind-up swings, someone to fix our meals and sing us to sleep, and someone to carry us on demand. We listed our grown-up substitutes: recliner chairs, rockers, bedtime music, mutual cuddling, massage, garlic-mashed potatoes, and chocolate sundaes. Since the need for nurturing is ongoing, it felt good to acknowledge our deep infant wishes for MORE. How do you nurture yourself? Need some now?
Women’s Press September & October 2006 | editors@womenspress-slo.org
Another breast cancer survivor retreat held twice yearly near Big Bear A.W.O.L. (A Way of Life...after diagnosis), a program out of Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, specifically designed for women who have or have had breast cancer, holds retreats in October and June near Big Bear at a camp in a beautiful nature setting with a loving nurturing environment. The 3day retreat is designed to help improve the quality of life and well-being of survivors. Activities include massage therapists and aestheticians at
hand to provide treatment; customized trust building exercises that allow for letting go vs. controlling; specially tailored art and writing workshops offered as a healing art; yoga and TaiChi classes; and crystal healing bowls sessions (given by local sound therapist Barbara Perry). Call 949-916-6851 for more information or go to www.chrysalistowings.com.
Photo by Ani Garrick
• Life’s Savor • By Hilda Heifetz
When my phone rings and I hear the introduction: “This is the voice of reason!” I know it’s John calling. In what has now become a ritual, my response is: “This is the voice of experience!” I feel I outrank him. I’ve just turned 92 and John is only 62 (he probably likes the “only” as a tribute to his youth, and I like it as a suggestion that he still has a lot to learn). In this exchange, we do hold a mutual respect across our generations. Actually, John is my son’s friend from the sixties at UCLA. When he first came to visit our home, there was a lot of lively talk around the dinner table. From the standpoint of an historian, economist, and political activist, John is an intense arguer. I confess that I enjoy passionate dialogue about
important things. At this first encounter, he was strongly defending the role of government in civilizing human affairs. I, on the other hand, showed great concern about abuses of too much government authority and the eroding of individual power and privacy. I had gotten to the point where it seemed I was favoring “anarchy” when my son re-captured John’s attention. I was feeling an appreciation or airing deep conviction on both of our parts when John took off. His parting shot was: “That was fun! Next time, I’ll take the other side!” What a rascal ... It’s good to be aware of John’s playfulness. Even when we’re engaged in telephone banter, he would still prefer that I have e-mail accessibility.
He thinks I’m quaint to still be using a typewriter. The other day, when he saw me typing, he pointed to the machine and cried: “What is that?!” In every way, he is a bold advocate of modern technology. He can’t believe that I resist the computer and using email. My excuse to him is that I like the ring of his laughter and the sound of his voice. He dismisses that with: “That’s no problem. I can simply write ‘Ha! Ha!’” I could go on about the many ways a friendship with young people gives flavor and buoyancy to my life at this tender age. The “Ha! Ha!” in any form is more than a chuckle; it’s a profound lift. John’s company is also a profound gift.
proud! How would you advise someone who is considering running for office? First of all, we need to appreciate people willing to consider a run for office. Due to the rigorous demands of campaigning, it is often the elite that have the time and the money to pursue a run for elected office. But common folks are in touch with the real needs of people. We need more grassroots candidates who are fiercely ethical, hardworking, loyal, and dedicated to meeting the needs of the people they serve. This type of candidate, who is looking to win with grassroots efforts, needs our encouragement to take it on and our time and financial support to be successful. That being said, I would strongly recommend the Wellstone Political Action Training (www.wellstone. org) and/or an EMILY’s List (“Early Money Rises Like Yeast”) Training (Dedicated to helping women win seats in the Congress and Senate over the past 20 years: www.emilyslist.org). The concepts I learned at these trainings kept me centered throughout our campaign. Other tips: • Observe elected officials. Get to know people close to the position you are interested in. Meet individually with community leaders and organizers from government to grassroots. • Develop a good relationship with media contacts. • Read newspapers daily and know both sides of the issues affecting your potential constituents.
• Find creative, positive solutions to the issues you are raising and be able to articulate how to get there. • Keep your campaign clean–do it differently–people will appreciate it! • Be authentic. • Be above reproach. • Know yourself well – your strengths and weaknesses – and have a strategy for both. • Know your opponents – their strengths and weaknesses – and have a strategy for addressing both. • Be internally motivated. Respond to criticism with an open mind and gracious attitude–you may learn something valuable. • Give credit where credit is due and make sure your volunteers know you value them. The more you are organized and have jobs for the volunteers, the more volunteers you will retain. • You will get more bang for your buck by using fresh, unique graphic materials—people are more likely to remember something unusual (but tasteful). • Be willing to walk miles of precincts to meet your constituents and get your message out! • Invest in yard signs, a great website, radio, and TV ads! • Give it your all–it is going to take your all and more to win!!!
VICK Continued from page 8
People are hoping you will run again. Would you consider doing so? Yes, I am considering running again in four years or perhaps running for another office. Meanwhile, I am doing what I can to help Bruce Gibson win the District 2 seat in November. While Bruce and I have our differences, I believe he is the best candidate running to preserve our quality of life on the Central Coast. What endeavors are you interested in at this point? I am now a voting member of the San Luis Obispo County Democratic Central Committee. I am volunteering on the No on Measure J (Dalidio project: nomeasurej.org ) campaign. I am interested in campaign finance reform (CA Nurses Association) and clean elections efforts. Campaigns are challenging and can bring out the best or worst in people. What kept you inspired? • My own personal internal compass. • My training with Wellstone Action and EMILY’s List • My close friends and fellow activists • My experience and training as a family therapist, keeping calm and focusing on strengths. • Being grateful for the help of so many in so many different ways– a grassroots campaign is inspiring! • My children are grown women and they were watching the campaign. I wanted to make them
Judy Vick can be contacted at venturemind@hotmail.com or 441-8644
Body&Soul
September & October 2006 | www.womenspress-slo.org | Women’s Press
The Golden Years
Paid Political Advertising
“I support Bruce Gibson in this
By Gary E. Foresman, MD
Since the beginning of time, when a woman reached that stage in life where she was lucky enough to have irregular periods, which eventually went away, associated with night sweats, hot flashes, and a myriad of mood fluctuations, she knew she was entering into menopause. She didn’t need a hormonal test, whether it came from her saliva, blood, urine or eye-socket. Typical for our modern era, we have created a normal transition into a wellmarketable disease which can then be treated by expensive pharmaceuticals, guided by so-called authorities who are more than willing to support the disease model. Just like PMS, menopause is a hormonally-related condition by which no absolute hormone level can be definitively associated with any one symptom. Our entire culture of women have been misled by the idea that menopause is scientific. That is “If I only had a certain level of estrogen, testosterone or other hormone, then I would feel a certain way.” When in truth, every scientific study has shown this to be untrue, and that at best we can make broad generalizations about hormone levels and symptoms. So what is a woman to do? Just like with any symptom, listen to it. Is my transition difficult due to stress, or lack of exercise? Do I need to slow down, listen more carefully, spend more time in nature, “be” more and not “do” more? Maybe these are the answers that you and your body are looking for, not necessarily a drug or an herb. You see, as we head into the “Wise Woman” phase of our life, our body might just be asking us to become a “Wise Woman.” Honor your symptoms, enter them, face them, but don’t run from them. Our society teaches us to run from discomfort. I am asking you to listen to it. Journal, spend time in nature, vacation, and listen.
election because If you are having a troublesome menopause, and while you are looking for the answers as to why it is troublesome, for heaven’s sake, treat the symptoms. A simple natural remedy known as “Hot Flash” by Source Naturals at 2 tabs, 2-3 times per day is an excellent natural phytoestrogen blend that can work wonders. Evening Primrose Oil 1350mg, 1-2 caps once or twice per day added on to Hot Flash, I have found beneficial many times when the Hot Flash was not enough. If the natural approaches aren’t enough to treat your symptoms, and especially if you have a low bone density, strongly consider natural hormonal therapy (a discussion with your natural Doctor). Finally, if you have still not responded to these approaches, it is time to consider hormonal evaluation to help guide you and your physician further. I tremendously respect the discomfort that some women experience during menopause. But just like with any other health condition, the key comes in actually listening to the symptoms and listening for the answers that are always there. In Good Health, Gary E. Foresman, MD
Gary Foresman, MD, Integrative/ Internal Medicine, is co-founder of A Natural Balance Integrative Wellness Center in Arroyo Grande. He may be contacted by phone at 805-481-3442, or by e-mail at info@anaturalbalance.com Web Site: www.anaturalbalance.com
I believe he has the
Judy Vick Endorses
necessary skills to
BRUCE GIBSON
work with the Board to get the job done.” —Judy Vick
for
County Supervisor of District 2
805.995.1652 www.BruceGibsonforSupervisor.org
WOMEN’S H O L I S T I C HEALTHCARE At A Natural Balance, we understand women’s needs. Most of our health professionals are women and we work together as a team. We take the time to listen to our clients, respectfully. We educate and advise, but ultimately you choose the kind of holistic treatment you want. Come meet our friendly staff. We’d like to get to know you.
OUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF Gary E. Foresman, MD, Cofounder Internal / Integrative Medicine
David M. Marquis, DC, DACBN, Cofounder Chiropractic / Board-Certified Nutrition
Jenny Dull, LAc Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
Cathy Giumini, MS, PT Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
Debbie Kaminski, RN, CPT Nurse Manager Health & Lifestyle Coach
Cynthia Caldeira Certified Hypnotherapist
Christelle Martinet, CMT Massage Therapist Physical Therapy Aide
Sherri Sorro, CMT Massage Therapist Compassionate Communication
Mara Stevens Cranio-Sacral Therapy Aromatherapy
Corin Brock Skin Care & Facial Rejuvenation
OTHER SERVICES: Intravenous Vitamin Therapy • Health & Fitness Lab Testing • Nutritional Analysis Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy • Health Classes & Support Groups • Retail Store with Physician-Selected Vitamins & Herbs also • Bare Escentuals Make-Up Gary E. Foresman, MD iss this THE TRUTH ABOUT HORMONES Debbie Kaminski, RN Don’t Mecture! Mara Stevens Tuesday, Sep 19, 2006 • 7 pm - 9 pm Great L Community Room, Public Library • 995 Palm St. • San Luis Obispo
A N ATURAL BALANCE
I N T E G R AT I V E W E L L N E S S C E N T E R P HONE : 805-481-3442 • F AX : 805-481-3443
BookReview
260-A Station Way, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 www.anaturalbalance.com
By Charlene Huggins
The Motherhood Manifesto: A Mother’s Call to Arms The “Mommy Wars,” a battle largely being fought by and within the media, pits working mothers against stay-at-home moms. The controversy is rooted in the question: When raising children, is it better to stay home or work? This question only pertains to a small percentage of families who possess the means and have the luxury of time to argue; otherwise, the debate is pointless. The reality of the U.S economic structure demands that its citizens work—that includes threequarters of its women. Only a fraction of women enjoy the luxury of choice when deciding between working or staying home to care for children. The media’s focus on the “Mommy Wars” deflects and dilutes the real economic and social problems women and families experience in their everyday lives. Co-authors, Joan Blades (co-
founder of MoveOn.org) and Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner, outline in The Motherhood Manifesto issues requiring a political movement to initiate change and to overcome the many challenges families struggle with daily. The areas in which women and their families need help are easy to identify: maternity/paternity leave, flexible work schedules, after-school programs, healthcare for all children, and realistic fair wages. These authors ask the question: If these issues affect so many children’s lives, why is public policy failing to support the American family and why do we still adhere to the traditional 9-5 corporate structures? The author’s impetus is change, and each chapter gives a plan of action for each issue addressed. The reader is given an intimate look at a woman’s private life and then offered solutions, which require better national policies and more incentives for corporations to create programs that enhance family life rather than impede it. For example, California is the only state that offers six weeks of paid family
leave, which is funded through a state disability insurance fund. With this piece of legislation, a woman who has just had a baby can take short-term disability leave and care for her newborn for up to six weeks without the threat of losing her job or experiencing a huge financial loss. If this law did not exist, she’d have to go back to work immediately. This is a powerful example of the interconnectedness of women’s lives and public policy. These authors wish to change the status quo of our society, asking for nothing less than a revolution. They wish to “summon all Americans-mothers, and all who have mothers- to start a revolution to make motherhood compatible with life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” I think it’s time we all join the fight.
11
12
Body&Soul
Women’s Press September & October 2006 | editors@womenspress-slo.org
SpiritualityMatters
Consider Writing an Ethical Will By Heather Mendel
We are all familiar with the concept of creating a will before we die that directs the dividing of our material wealth. Is an ethical will perhaps more important? We do not have to wait until death approaches, for who knows when that day will come? An ethical will can be written at any time and is a great way to review our values and to see where our lives, physical and spiritual, mesh. To prepare such a will, we need to take a hard look at our beliefs and what it is that we would like our children, or those we leave behind, to remember about us. Thinking back to our own loved ones who have passed through the portal to the Great Unknown, we know that the color or style of hair, their height and weight is not what we remember. It is the expressions, both on their faces as well as those articulated from their lips that leave lasting impressions. Things most meaningful will inevitably come from the deep pool of spiritual truth from which we all draw. The containers of that precious liquid may appear different as each one will be formed by the religious traditions that have impacted our lives. If we were able to examine the contents of the containers, it is almost certain we would find that common to all is how we are able to give and receive lovingkindness. Is this not the wellspring of all the good and positively creative actions we can perform?
As the Jewish New Year approaches, it is a time for all Jews to examine their lives and the decisions taken for this past twelve months— may I be so bold as to suggest it is a worthwhile exercise for us all. As we consider where we have fallen short this year, we can consciously decide to behave more ethically in the coming year. What are the factors we can consider? How do we treat ourselves, our immediate circle, and the world at large— as an international family as well as the planet itself? It may seem odd to start with self. For many this seems selfish. On the contrary—where else to begin? In the words of sage Hillel: “If I am not for myself, who will be for me, if I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?” I need to start with myself. If I don’t care for myself, who will? If my interests remain only for myself, then I am selfish. And what better time is there to start, than right now. On consideration of our goals, aspirations, and the motivating causes for the actions we take, once we are aware of the role of loving-kindness in our lives, we may be able to see what others will remember about us when we are no more. How do we spend time caring for ourselves— reading, walking in nature, nurturing our souls? How available are we when others need us? Do we have one cause into which we are willing to put time
and effort to make the world a better place? These three questions may be a launching pad to the writing of an ethical will. It is a valuable exercise. I invite readers to share their thoughts to stimulate ideas in us all. What few words would we live to see on our tombstone? Again, this is not meant to be a morbid fascination with death. On the contrary, if were to boil down everything that is extraneous, what, in a few words, would sum up our life’s’ journey. For myself “What if ” has been the thrust of my life. I look for alternatives, potentials and possibilities— other ways of understanding ourselves and our world, ways that may not be obvious, but may be better. After a period of introspection, devise your own axiom for your life story and we would welcome your sharing it with us. Heather Mendel has focalized women’s spirituality groups for the past 15 years. She can be contacted through her website at www.wordartist.com, e-mailed at heathermendel@charter.net or called at 544-4933.
Women and Our Worth By Laura Hyde
Understanding and knowing where our energy flows is essential to our physical and emotional health and well being. Since everything is pure energy, focusing our attention, or obsessing about something or someone, disturbs the balance in our energy fields, which can lead to physical illness. For example, if we are directing our thoughts toward someone about something that has happened in the past, we are “leaking” our precious life force energy—ki, chi, prana, or qi—in a negative manner which depletes our energy on a cellular level. Becoming aware of our thoughts and where we are leaking energy can help us understand the healing process. Most of us are aware that we have seven energy centers in our bodies known as chakras. Our emotions affect our bodies and our chakras. Because the individual and collective programming of most women involve the creed, “Please others,” many of us suffer from low self-esteem. At an early age, our validation has often stemmed from our capacity to take care of others and to seek others’ approval. Therefore, as we evolve and awaken to the creativity within, our families may unconsciously withhold support, from fear that they may lose our loyalty to the family “tribe.” This type of tribal thinking can cause us to limit ourselves, to hold ourselves back from accomplishing what is in our hearts. The third chakra is associated with the center of Self-Esteem and Personal Power. For women, this area involves our connection with ourselves and others, our ability to balance independence with dependence (interdependence), and our capacity to achieve our goals and dreams. When we’re not balanced in this area, we may feel inferior, incompetent, overly responsible, territorial, and/or relinquish our inner power to others (sound familiar?). The physical areas affected by this chakra include the spleen, kidney, pancreas, gall bladder, liver, abdomen, upper intestines, stomach and lower esophagus. Our emotions directly affect these areas, so when we’re not
validating, appreciating, or trusting ourselves, physical ailments can occur such as heartburn, ulcers, gastric upset, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, anorexia and bulimia, indigestion, and substance abuse. So, how do we value ourselves in a culture where our worth appears to be based on putting others first? First, we must become aware of how we’re leaking our energy. Taking some time to contemplate the following probes will help you strengthen the relationship with yourself: • How am I spending the majority of my day? Who do I think about the most? Where do I put my energy/effort/focus, and why? • Whose approval do I seek? Whose opinion matters to me the most, and why? • How much time do I take to appreciate how far I’ve come, how much growth I have experienced? • Do I feel competent in taking care of myself? If not, what do I need to work on to increase my sense of adequacy? • What parts of my life are working, and which parts need to change? Taking time to reflect on the above probes will assist you in making changes that are helpful emotionally, intellectually, physically, and spiritually. Remember that you are a wise and powerful and woman who deserves to have a balanced and meaningful life. Laura Hyde is the Spiritual Leader of the Unity Church – Five Cities and a facilitator of A Course in Miracles. She hosts “Relationship Wisdom” on Public Television. Please visit her at www.laurahyde.com.
Semi-rural Retreat Center (5 acres)
LAY MONASTIC MASTER PATH RETREATS WITH
SPIRITUAL TEACHER LIGIA DANTES • For mature male/female who is drawn to quiet reflective living, but does not require ritual or dogma • Advanced spiritual instruction & inquiry with Ms. Dantes in a non-religious, monastic environment • Daily meditation practice & mindful service, periodic Zen-like intensives • Share caretaking duties: maintaining grounds and serving guests who come for retreats • One-month to one-year retreats For complete details visit: www.naturalinsight.org/masterpath Inquire about shorter or 1-day retreats. CENTER FOR HOLISTIC LIVING P.O. Box 368 Grover Beach, CA 93483 e-mail: info@naturalinsight.org
CommunityBulletinBoard
September & October 2006 | www.womenspress-slo.org | Women’s Press
Events The Truth About Hormones Tuesday, September 19, 2006 7 pm - 9 pm Community Room, Public Library 995 Palm St. • San Luis Obispo A Lecture by Gary E. Foresman, MD, Internal / Integrative Medicine, Cofounder of A Natural Balance Intergrative Wellness Center With Debbie Kaminski, RN, CPT and Mara Stevens, Essential Oils and Aromatherapy Specialist This exhaustively researched and balanced presentation exposes the myths, misunderstandings and outright lies about the complex issue of hormonal health and prepares women to make well-informed choices at any stage of life, but especially menopause. The often-confusing personal choices regarding Hormone Replacement Therapy are carefully considered. Debbie Kaminski, RN, CPT and Mara Stevens contribute invaluable palliative advice for any woman experiencing the symptoms of menopause.
The spiritual training course “Living the Eternal Way” will be held for 12 weeks starting Thursday, Sept 7 through Dec.7, from 7:00pm –9:00 pm at the Awakening Sanctuary, 1130 Napa Avenue, Morro Bay. What do we seek? This course provides the spiritual tools for turning our lives around in the direction of true fulfillment and demonstrating how to prosper from the soul level in every area of our life. Call 772-0306 or go to Awakeninginterfaith.org for information and preregistration. Course offered on a free- will donation basis.
“From Vision to Venture” Self Employment Training Courses Over two hundred individuals have completed the “From Vision to Venture” course since 2003 in San Luis Obispo County. Graduates have opened or expanded businesses such as apparel and food manufacturers, distributors, medical services, beauty shops, retail operations, restaurants, childcare and many other types of small businesses in and around the county. While open to all people, MCSC’s “From Vision to Venture” courses especially inspire, encourage and address the particular needs of women and minority-owned enterprises. In addition to two English courses, two of the 14-week “From Vision to Venture” courses will be offered in Spanish. Classes start in Sept. in Paso Robles, Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, and in Guadalupe or Nipomo. Individuals interested in learning more about these self-employment training opportunities may call 805 595-1357 to register for a free informational meeting.
Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort Offers Free Wellness Classes September 24 The Resort will be offering the community a day of free wellness classes on Sunday, September 24, entitled “Staying Healthy with the Season of Autumn” from 12:00 to 4:00 pm at the resort’s Healing Arts Institute. Events will include Chi Ball, Color Therapy for Autumn, Healing Waters, and Astrology for Fall. For more information and a complete schedule of regular weekly classes, go to www.smsr.com or call Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort at (805) 5957302.
Free Housing Education Fair Coming to SLO
Sunday Sept 17th, 10am Tony Criscuolo on “Yoga and the Spiritual Life” Sunday, Oct 15th, 10 am Dr. Nisha AbdulCader, “At the Crossroads: Islamic Perspectives on Interfaith Dialogue “ Rev. Nancy Ballinger will be speaking on all other Sundays at 10am at Awakening Interfaith Spiritual Community 1130 Napa Ave. Morro Bay. Call 772-0306 or go to Awakeninginterfaith.org for information.
Saturday, September 16 11 am to 3 pm Vets’ Hall at 801 Grand Ave. Get information about buying, renting, designing and insuring an affordable home in San Luis Obispo County. Forty different booths, panel discussions. For more information about, please go to www.slowhc.org or contact Marguerite Bader at 595-7276 or bafo@earthlink.net.
September 23: Reservoir Canyon Hike Ends at 9am. Bring sunscreen and water for this moderate hike. For more info, visit www.ecoslo.org, or call 544-1777 or 781-7211. September 30th: SLO County’s Creek Day from 9am to Noon Just like Coastal Cleanup Day, there are a list of sites at which to participate. Go to www.creekday.org for information. October 10th: Save the Date - Smart Energy Solutions Summit This is an unprecedented regional community summit. From 8:30a to 4:30pm at the SLO Veteran’s Hall. One day, eight panels, and everything you need to know to get to a clean energy future. $15 including lunch, or $20 at the door. You will be able to make reservations soon at www. SLOenergysummit.org. Call Andrew of the Sierra Club at 543-8717 with any questions.
ng for i k o Lo
Call for details on coverage, costs, restrictions and renewability. *Coverages issued and underwritten by Fortis Insurance Company, a Fortis Health member company, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. No member of the State Farm family of companies is financially responsible for the Individual Medical Coverage product. Fortis Insurance Company is not an affiliate of State Farm. P01421 11/02
Wednesday, October 4, 2006, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. South County Regional Center, 800 West Branch Street in Arroyo Grande, Free-of-charge The Arroyo Grande Chamber of Commerce and Arroyo Grande Community Hospital announce the Third Annual Senior Showcase. The focus of the showcase is to encourage seniors, recent retirees, and Baby Boomers to be proactive in thinking about their future, and to provide them with ideas and information on how to meet their long-term needs. For additional information contact the Arroyo Grande Chamber of Commerce at 489-1488 or email agcoc@ arroyograndecc.com.
Cuesta College Writers’Conference XXII
“The Voices of Truth” Speaker Series
ECOSLO Hikes
Arroyo Grande Chamber Champions: A Strong Local Economy at Senior Showcase
September 15-16, 2006 San Luis Obispo, California $139, 28 Workshops in all areas of Writing and Publishing. Classes are presented by published authors, publishers and agents. Keynote Speaker: Earlene Fowler To register or for more information, call (805)546-3132 or log on www.communityprograms.net/wc/ wcinfo.htm
Free Astrology Workshops September 13 and 24 SLO Astrologers, a newly formed association on the Central Coast whose mission is to provide a vehicle for the study, advancement, and enjoyment of astrology, is offering free mini workshops . “Astrology for Men,” Wednesday, September 13, from 7:30-8:30 pm in San Luis Obispo.(1204 Nipomo St.) “Astrology and Your Health,” Sunday, September 24, from 4-5pm at Sycamore Springs (Healing Arts Institute) in Avila Beach. Workshops will be done by Margaret Hennessy and Curtis Williams. Call or e-mail to reserve a space: 805546-3420 or sloastro@yahoo.com
Then look to your good neighbor State Farm® agent. Through an unbeatable alliance with Fortis Health*, I’m offering flexible and affordable insurance coverage. If that’s what you’re looking for, come see me today: Susan Rodriguez, Agent Lic.# 0D30697 1317 Broad Street Suite A San Luis Obispo, CA 805-783-7050
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® statefarm.com® State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Home Office: Bloomington, Illinois
13
14
CommunityBulletinBoard
Women’s Press September & October 2006 | editors@womenspress-slo.org
Volunteer Opportunities
Hotline Needs Phone Staffers We need volunteers to help staff the 24-hour information & referral/ support / crisis line. Volunteers will receive extensive training in active listening, resource, and crisis skills. The only qualifications needed are to be 18 years of age or over, have a desire to help people in our community and be a good listener. The next training program startS October 3rd. Contact Mike Bossenberry @ 544-6016, ext. 13, or mike@slohotline.org
Women’s Shelter of SLO Needs Mentors Do you want to mentor a child in need? Do you want to give back to the community? The Women’s Shelter Program of SLO County is recruiting for the mentor program. CHAT mentors attend a 40-hour training and then are matched with a child from our program. The mentor has visits with the child and does advocacy in the community and the school system for the child. The Women’s Shelter Program is also recruiting Crisis volunteers for the crisis line. If you are interested in either of these opportunities, please contact Beth Raub at 781-6401 x202.
United Way Has a Wish List
Deepen
.FUIPET GPS TFMG EJSFDUJPO BOE TQJSJU NJOE CPEZ JOUFHSBUJPO
%SFBN BOE 'PDVTJOHÂĽ FEVDBUJPO GPS TQJSJUVBM EJSFDUPST UIFSBQJTUT BOE JOEJWJEVBMT
ÉŠF+PVSOFZÂĽ GPS DFMMVMBS NFNPSZ SFMFBTF BOE FYQFSJFODJOH 4PVSDF
,BUF $[FLBMB ." JOOFSHVJEF!TCDHMPCBM OFU
United Way of SLO has a wish list from its member agencies. You can help a SLO County nonprofit agency (or maybe more than one!) by taking a moment to read through the “wish list� of items and volunteers needed, as well as employment opportunities and special events. If you can help by donating an item or by volunteering, or want more information about a job posting or a special event, please contact the agency directly using the information provided in each listing. Go to http://www.unitedwayslo. org/youcanhelp.htm to review the list and help any way you can.
California Coastal Cleanup Day Saturday, September 16th, 2006 9 am – 12 pm The California Coastal Commission is proud to announce that the 22nd Annual California Coastal Cleanup Day will take place at over 700 locations around the state. Volunteers will clean trash and debris from 1,100 miles of the California coast as well as another 1,000 miles along the inland shorelines of bays, creeks, rivers, and lakes throughout California. Locally ECOSLO offers 26 clean-up sites in SLO County. Contact Patrick Kirby at 805.544.1777 with any questions, or visit us on the web at www.ecoslo.org to see a list of all Beach Site meeting places, interesting articles, and details on our Clean-up Celebration at Pismo Pier from 12:30 pm to 4pm.
Coffee for CASA Starbucks hosts information meetings for CASA- Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children of San Luis Obispo County What: Select Starbucks throughout San Luis Obispo County will host informational meetings for men and women over the age of 21 who are interested in volunteering to help abused and neglected children in San Luis Obispo County. CASA is looking for volunteers interested in advocating for the best interests of abused children, helping to turn a life of hurt into one of hope. Bi-lingual volunteers are also needed. To reserve a space, contact CASA at (805) 541-6542 ext. 101. When: First Tuesday of every month at 6:30 pm starting September 5th at the Marigold Center in San Luis Obispo. CASA recruits, trains and supervises volunteers who advocate for abused, neglected and abandoned children. There are 150 children in SLO County who are assigned a CASA volunteer; 500 children are currently in the court system and are eligible for the services. For more information, call 541-6542 or visit www.slocasa.org.
CASA Recruiting New Volunteers CASA is looking for men and women who are committed to doing what is best for abused and neglected children in our community. Volunteers visit children regularly and are thoroughly trained in courtroom procedure, social services, the juvenile justice system, and the special needs of abused and neglected children. Volunteers generally work 12-15 hours each month.    Our next orientation will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 27, at noon in our office  in the Pacific Coast Center, 75 Higuera Street, Suite 180, San Luis Obispo. Training for prospective advocates begins on  October 7, 2006  . Please call the CASA office at 541-6542 or visit www.slocasa.org  for more information.Â
SLO County to be part of new NVC network A new regional NVC (nonviolent communication) organization is being formed in Southern California. It is going to include the counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego with the possibility of adding/including Riverside and San Bernardino. A new Yahoo group has also been created http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ SoCalNVC to serve this group and we invite you to join. Contact: rodgersorrow@verizon. net, Rodger 805-963-0101, Kathi 805682-5618. http://www.communicationfromtheheart.com
SARP Center Volunteer Training Become a State Certified Sexual Assault Crisis Counselor! Fall Training: October 3rd – November 16th, Tuesdays and Thursdays 5:45 pm – 10:00 pm For additional information or an application, please contact: (805) 545-8888 or volunteer@sarpcenter.org
An Evening with the Artists November 9, 2006 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm at Edna Valley Vineyard Local artists, music, food and wine, and a silent auction benefiting the SARP Center For additional information, please call (805) 545-8888 or visit www.sarpcenter.org Â
MOMS Club Donates to Back Pack Project The MOMS Club of South San Luis Obispo County donated backpacks to the SAFE (Services Affirming Family Empowerment) System of Care, a local school-linked program to keep kids safe, healthy, at home, in school and out of trouble. Last week 15 backpacks, filled to the brim with sorts of school supplies, were brought to the program’s Arroyo Grande location. MOMS Club (AKA Moms offering Moms Support) is a nonprofit organization created to provide support, encouragement and friendship to stay-at-home moms. Further Information contact: Christine Machala, 805-440-7941 CMachala@Charter.ne
Resources
September & October 2006 | www.womenspress-slo.org | Women’s Press
ABUSE
Adults Molested as Children Support Group (AMAC)
Talk/Listen - Emotional support
Center for Alternatives to Domestic Violence
Transformations Counseling Center
545.8888
781.6406
(inc. domestic violence support groups) 461.1338
545.8888
545.8888
545.8888
781.6400 www.womensshelterslo.org
North County Women’s Shelter & Resource Center, Rape Survivors Support Group, SLO
SARP (Sexual Assault Recovery & Prevention) Support Group for Sexual Assault Survivors Women’s Shelter Program of SLO
489.5481
Free monthly workshops 541.7908
Parkinson’s Support Groups
466.7226 (Atascadero/Templeton) 481.7424, 473.1714 (Arroyo Grande) 544.1342 (SLO)
SLO 549.9446
471.8102 (SLO)
544.2266 (SLO)
GAY & LESBIAN
534.1101
541.4252
544.4883
FINANCE/BUSINESS
Consumer Credit Counseling Services
800.540.2227
595.1356 www.mcscorp.org
Mission Community Services Corporation Women’s Business Partners
Gay and Lesbian Alliance of the Central Coast
Planned Parenthood
Stroke Support Group
Caregivers of Stroke Survivors Women’s Support/Therapy v (general) Women’s Healthcare Specialists
ADDICTIONS
PFLAG.Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays
438.3889
POLITICAL
541.3211
SOL (Single Older Lesbians)
Mostly socializing! Call 474.9405
ososousaville@aol.com
595.2695
HOSPICE
545.8412; Dawn Williams
927.1654
544.2266
League of Women Voters
541.4252
Women’s Recovery Home 481.8555
544.2266 and 434.1164
543.2220
546.1178
782.8608
slonow@kcbx.net
781.4275 800.549.7730
JOBS/CAREERS
http://www.slo.greens.org 544.1580
Cal Poly Foundation
www.ywtf.org
AA Meeting
Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) Cambria Connection (12 step support) Casa Solana
Compulsive eaters Anonymous, H.O.W.Concept Drug & Alcohol Services NA Overeaters Anonymous
AIDS Bereavement Group (Hospice) Hospice of SLO County
Hospice Partners of the Central Coast
AARP 788.2643
15
Code Pink
Commission on Status of Women Democratic Women United
NOW (National Organization for Women) SLO Green Party
Younger Women’s Task Force
Jobline 756.7107
READERS/WRITERS
http://calpolyjobs.org 756.1533
541-4219
http://www.cuesta.edu Jobline 546.3127
549.9656; contact Shirley Powell
www.slocareers.org 788.2631 or 788.2690
http://SinC-CCC.blogspot.com
CHILDREN & FAMILIES
549.3361
SENIORS
541.2272 or 800.727.2272
595.1356 www.mcscorp.org
544.1414 (SLO); 748.9070 (Arroyo Grande); 434.2081 (Templeton); 927.4290 (Cambria)
“A child’s voice in Court in SLO County” 541.6542
www.jobhunt.org 788.2601
Computer help: 528.3892
781.1847
LEGAL ACLU Helpline
781.4058; ask for Susan Hughs
Core Mediation Services
In-Home Support to the Elderly/Homemakers help with ADLs 781.1790 nursing help for the terminally ill 781.5540
462.0726; ask for Barbara
489.5481, dg17@juno.com
782.9200
free, trained in.home counseling for 60+ 547.7025 ext. 15
541.3164
461.6084
929.1789
http://www.womenforsobriety.org 215.536.8026
SCA, SLAA & SAA (Sex, Love & Romance Addictions) TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Women for Sobriety
Cal Poly University Cuesta College
The Creekside Career Center
Department of Rehabilitation
Childcare Resource Connection
Mission Community Services Corporation Women’s Business Partners
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)
Private Industry Council (PIC)
Children’s Services Network
Adult Literacy Nightwriters
Sisters in Crime
Adult Day Care
Computerooters:
Department of Social Services:
First 5: Children & Families Commission
544.0142
Homeschooling in SLO County (HSC)
544.6334 medeee8@aol.com
La Clinica De Tolosa 238.5334 La Leche League
Migrant Childcare Program
Lawyers Referral Services/Legal Aid Alternative
Pro Per Divorce Workshop
SPIRITUAL (OR NOT)
District Attorney’s Office – Victim Witness Center
781.5821
Family Law Facilitator
489.9128
546.3769
544.4355 and 466.3444
788.2099
473. 2548; 440.7941
544.9313
541.8666; ask for Beth
543.5140
460.9016
MEDICAL SUPPORT/SERVICES
781.1600
227.4785
473.6507
534.9234 (LO); 547.3830 (SLO); 226.8669 (Templeton) Caregivers of Early-Stage Alzheimer’s 547.3830, 534.9234 (SLO/Los Osos)
MOMS Club of South SLO county Partnership for Children
Real F.A.C.T.S. (Forum on Abused Children) Social Services
Support for Kids Coping with Domestic Violence
EMERGENCY/CRISIS Hotline
www.slohotline.org 800.549.8989
545.8888 or 800.656.HOPE (4673)
Sexual & Rape Prevention (SARP)
Temporary Restraining Order & Victim Witness Program 781.5821
EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
Senior Legal Services
ALS Support Group (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) Alzheimer’s Support
American Cancer Society
Paso Robles 238.9657
Anorexia Nervosa & Bulimia Support Group
541.9113
Arthritis Foundation
892.5556
Cancer/ Breast Cancer Support Groups
A.D.A.P.T. (Aid in Divorce Adjustment Problems Today)
Alzheimer/Dementia Resource Center
543.1481 ext. 3 for information
Caregivers of Aging Parents
Equal Singles 60+ Meet Monthly
Foster Grandparents.Senior Companions Senior Peer Counseling
A Course in Miracles
Mondays, 7 PM, Unity of SLO, 995.1390
Sunday service, 10–11 AM; 772.0306
543.9452
Mondays, 7:30–8:30 PM; 772.0306
Every Sunday, Coalesce Bookstore, MB
Awakening Interfaith Spiritual Community Central Coast Jewish Historical Society Meditation Group
New Beginnings Church
WOMEN’S CENTERS/SHELTERS
Homeless Shelter
781-3993
543.4478
461.1338
786.0617
544.9313
549.8989 (crises), 781.6401 (business) www.womensshelterslo.org
Housing Authority North County Women’s Resource Center, Shelter Prado Day Center
543.0388
434.3061 or 534.9234 or 800.443.1236
547.3830 (AG); 927.4290 (Cambria); 226.8669 (PR); 547.3830 (SLO)
543.3764
www.endometriosisassn.org
542.0577 (SLO) 481.5093 (Grover Beach) 927.1654 (Cambria) 466.8600 (North County)
(for breast cancer survivors) 771.8640 www.enhancementinc.com
OTHER WOMEN’S ORGANIZATIONS
543.7969
927.3703
no or low cost reproductive health services 544.2478 (SLO); 489.4026 (Arroyo Grande)
CALL–Concerned Agoraphobics Learning to Live Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) Community Counseling Center
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Group Eating Disorders Support Group
546-3774; free, meets weekly in SLO Hospice of SLO County (inc. miscarriage/stillbirth support) 544.2266 or 434.1164 Safe and Sober Support Group
473.6507
free, trained in-home counseling for 60+ 547.7025, ext. 15
Senior Peer Counseling
Endometriosis Association Enhancement, Inc.
EOC Health Services Clinics
Healthworks of the Central Coast
no or low cost reproductive health services 787.0100 (SLO); 773.4500 (Pismo); 610.8865 (Atascadero)
785.0132
Long-term Care Ombudsman Services of SLO County Lymphedema Education & Support Group
2nd Monday, 4:00-5:00 pm 782-9300 for info
Women’s Community Center, SLO Women’s Shelter Program of SLO
Altrusa International, Inc.
481.1039; Cici Wynn, President
543.9452
546.3727 www.womenslo.org
Hadassah.SLO
Women’s Network, SLO
OTHER GROUPS & GATHERINGS
Central Coast Peace and Environmental Council
544.3399 or 783.2383
938.7853 or 458.5328
Compassion & Choices (formerly Hemlock Society) Please send additions, corrections or deletions to: editors@womenspress-slo.org or leave a message at the WCC: 805.544.9313. Last update 9/6/06.
Medicinal Herbs: Healing With Heart
BackTalk When in your life have you felt the most courageous?
Saturday, September 23rd, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $105 includes lunch, snack and materials ($95 for reservations received by September 17th and checks received by September 20th). Overnight accommodations are available. Create and bring home medicinal teas, tinctures, and salves. With Shawna Timmerman, a Nationally Certified Arroyo Grande Retreat Center Massage Therapist with a diploma in Herbal Medicine. Plant nine herbs in your own eighteen inch “strawberry” pot. With Tara Storke, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Hypnotherapist, who helps clients find peace and spiritual healing in her gardens. To register, call or e-mail Tara at 455-8342, tara@oakhavengardens.com
Yoga Retreat: Two Yoga Sessions and Meditation; Optional Massage
Sydney
Neomi Vembu
Lisa Hersch
Telling my children that their older brother, 28, had died in an airplane accident. From some God given place, I pulled on courage to embrace the fact, pray with my children, and get through the ensuing days. Courage I didn’t know existed helped me fly out to the site and spend the following days with Joe’s widow and young son. I thank God for giving me the courage to be strong in what felt like an unbearable situation.
The most courageous I probably ever felt was the first day I was alone with my daughter, Ella. I had just gotten out of 6 weeks in the hospital where neurosurgeons performed surgery on my skull. I felt dizzy, scared and tired. Everyday I worked towards getting better. First I walked to the mailbox and then two weeks later, I walked two miles with good friends and neighbors like Lynda Roeller and Sue Moore. Two years later, I ran a 5K.
I would have to say it was leaving my career, friends, and family behind in Los Angeles – all that was familiar, comfortable, and safe – to get a college degree ( at 34 years old) and a new start on the Central Coast where I didn¹t know a soul. I had a successful career as a copywriter in advertising in Los Angeles, as well as my own small public relations and marketing firm, and going back to school (where I had never been a stellar student) was really quite a big step for me.
Self-Hypnosis: Empowerment through Utilization of the Subconscious Mind Saturday, October 28th, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $90 includes lunch and snack ($80 for reservations received by October 22nd and checks received by October 25th). Overnight accommodations are available. Learn how to quickly and easily enter a hypnotic state and achieve positive results with many problems, concerns or addictions, including excess weight or eating issues, smoking, substance abuse, pain management, stress and fatigue, anxiety, guilt, anger and depression. Tara Storke, M.S., is a certified hypnotherapist, assisting many clients through hypnosis in her psychotherapy practice. To register, call or e-mail Tara at 455-8342, tara@oakhavengardens.com
Where to find Women’s Press
LONGEVITY are Ce c h t n al
te r
He
Saturday, September 30th, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. $95 including lunch and snack. Register by Sept. 15th with $30 non-refundable deposit. ½ hour optional massage with Shawna, $35. Each class is a full body, balanced experience focusing on strength building, flexibility, balance, toning, stretching, energy work, and is synchronized with the season, the weather and time of day, taking into account Ayurvedic principles. For beginners and experienced practitioners alike. Call Val Petrova, owner of Holistic Movement Center in Morro Bay, (805) 909-1401 or go to www.holisticmovementcenter.com for detailed information and to register.
Integrated Medicine Specializing in Healthy Aging, Chronic Disease, Allergies and Nutritional Therapies
Reversing the Underlying Cause of Disease, Not Just Symptom Management
Peter J. Muran, MD Board Certified in Holistic Medicine
1405 Garden Street, San Luis Obispo 805-548-0987 Subscribe to Our Complementary Lecture Series and Newsletter at www.longevityhealthcare.com
All SLO County Libraries and the following exceptionally fine establishments!
• NORTH COUNTY: Atascadero – The Coffee House and Deli, Starbuck’s at Von’s Plaza, Carlene’s Café, Player’s Pizza, Harvest Health Food Store, North County Connection, Senior Center, Women’s Resource Center/Shelter Office; Paso Robles – Café Vio, Chelsea Bookshop/Café Novella, Old Mission Coffee House, Wilmot Market, DK Donuts, Panolivo French Cafe, Community Thrift Shop, Paso Robles Health Foods; Templeton – Magic Windows Coffee Café, Twin Cities Hospital; Santa Margarita– Santa Margarita Mercantile • NORTHERN COAST: Baywood – Coffee & Things; Cambria – Cambria Connection, Gym One, La Crema, 7 Sisters, Azevedo Chiropractic; Cayucos – Cayucos Super Market, Kelley’s Espresso & Dessert, Lily’s Coffee House, Ocean Front Pizza; Los Osos – Starbuck’s, Baywood Laundry, Cad’s, Carlock’s Bakery, Chamber of Commerce, Copa de Oro, Garden Café, Los Osos Deli, Valley Liquor, Volumes of Pleasure; Morro Bay – Backstage Salon, Coalesce Bookstore, Coffee Pot Restaurant, The Rock, Southern Port Traders, Sunshine Health Foods, Two Dogs Coffee • SAN LUIS OBISPO: Art Café, Booboo Records, Creekside Center, GALA, Jaffa Café, Marigold Nails, Palm Theatre, Susan Polk Insurance, Susan Rodriquez Insurance, Utopia Bakery, Unity Church, Zoe Wells, Naturopath, Cal Poly Library, Center for Alternatives to Violence, Chamber of Commerce, Cuesta College Library, EOC Health Services Clinic, French Hospital, Garden St. Essentials, HealthWorks, Healing Alternatives, Jamaca You, Karen Hale Chiropractic, Laguna Laundry, Linnaea’s, Monterey Express, Natural Foods Coop, New Frontiers, Nautical Bean, Outspoken Beverage Bistro, Phoenix Books, Planned Parenthood, Rudolph’s Coffee & Tea, San Luis Obispo Housing Authority Office, SARP, The Secret Garden, Sierra Vista Hospital, SLO Perk Coffee, Spirit Winds Therapy, The Studio Fitness for Women, Two Dogs Coffee, Uptown Cafe, Yoga Centre, Ahshe Hair Salon, Apropos Clothing, Soho Hair Salon, Tom-Mel Beauty Center • SOUTH COUNTY: Arroyo Grande – Natural Balance, Mongo’s, World Gym, Act II Boutique, Andreini’s, Central Coast Yoga, CJ’s Restaurant, Country Kitchen, Curves-AG, Cutting Edge, EOC Health Services Clinic, Family Chiropractic, Girls Restaurant, Grande Whole Foods, Hunter’s Landing, Kennedy Club Fitness; Avila Beach– Custom House, Sycamore Hot Springs; Grover Beach – World Gym, Back Door Deli, Cindi’s Wash House, Nan’s Pre-owned Books, Therapeutic Body Center, 20-minute Fitness; Halcyon – Halcyon Store; Nipomo – Center for Holistic Healing, World Gym, California Fresh; Pismo Beach – HealthWorks, Honeymoon Café, Pismo Athletic Club; Shell Beach – De Palo & Sons Deli, Seaside Cafe, Steaming Bean • SANTA MARIA: Café Monet, Hunter’s Landing, Library, Loading Dock, Marian Medical Center