A new yellow rose baptised as Rosa Zonta+. at the convention in Rotterdam. The Zonta Club of Quaboag Valley
Successful Executives Serving the World
from Western Massachusetts, USA

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The Breast Cancer site is having trouble getting enough people to click on their site daily to meet their quota of donating at least one free mammogram a day to an underprivileged woman. It takes less than a minute to go to their site and click on 'click here to give' for free (pink window in the middle).


District I Newsletter
Spotlight on Area 2

 

Officers 2009-2010                           

Mary Knight

President

Janet DaSilva
Vice President

Julie Bowder            
Treasurer

Carol Bardon
Secretary

Joanne Turner-Chiacchia
Marge Cavanaugh
Ann Cormier
Directors

 

 

 

If you are a victim of abuse, you are NOT alone, you are not to blame and you cannot control the actions of your abuser. There is more help available to you (and your children) than ever before. You, and only you, can make the decision to change or permanently end the abusive relationship you endure on a daily basis. No one deserves to be abused. Click here  to learn about  numerous domestic violence programs available across Massachusetts.

 

Conference 2008

Welcome Zonta International is a global organization of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy.  The Zonta Club of Quaboag Valley, a chapter of Zonta International, was chartered in 1991 and has made a significant impact on the local area by contributing to various service projects.  The Club meets the second Monday of the month, September through June, at  5:30 p.m. Interested in checking us out?  Free Pass      Prospective Member Questionnaire (PDF)


We meet at Johnsens Catering 1432A Main St. Palmer, MA 01069      

February 8, 2010  5:30 Social 6:00 Dinner, followed by meeting and program.    Dinner: Turkey Stroganoff  ($18).  Contact info@zontaqv.org for more information; dinner reservations are required by 2/3


Welcome to our two newest members:  Pam Albertson and Carolyn Braskie!

 

 

 

 


November was a special and busy time for the Zonta Club of Quaboag Valley.  We marked the 90th anniversary of ZI by recognizing over 30 local women professionals with a yellow rose and card of gratitude for their leadership. It’s also Poinsettia order time!  IT'S NOT TOO LATE to order.  Contact a member or email info@zontaqv.org 
We recognized our Founders Day award winner Bonny Rathbone at the November 9th business meeting. She is a model of leadership in her role as high school principal and in her support of women’s issues.   We are very excited also to have another leader join us—District Governor Nadine Salley was on hand to do the honors at our induction ceremony: Carly Cavanaugh and Lisa Sedelow were sworn in as our newest members. 

The Fall District Conference was absolutely wonderful—our sisters from the Berkshires outdid themselves.  Read all about the adventures in Deb Wood’s report in this issue.

Our member spotlight this month is on Liz Reeves—one of the founding members of our club and a most enthusiastic Zontian!

Your opinions are needed regarding a repeat of our Silent “No More” Auction! and our traditional golf tournament, as well as participation in the Relay for Life.  The Zonta International Convention is in San Antoio, Texas June 25-30th, 2010.  It doesn’t get this close for a long time so we want to encourage all members to consider attending.  As natural activists, we want to do it all….and we need to decide if that’s possible in the current reality.  Please give these events some thought.

Looking forward to seeing you at the November meeting!  Please pass the word to Bonny's colleagues and friends and the general public!
Be sure to get me the final count for guests by Wednesday 11/4. 

 

Best,
 Mary Knight, President ZQV



The goals of Zonta International are [ZI Bylaws, Article II, Objects (www.zonta.org)]

(a) to improve the legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status of women though service and advocacy;

(b) to work for the advancement of understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of executives in business and the professions;

(c) to promote justice and universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms;

(d) to be united internationally to foster high ethical standards, to implement service programs and to provide mutual support and fellowship for members who serve their communities, their nations and the world.


 

 

 

     

November 2009   http://endviolence.un.org/

Violence against women and girls continues unabated in every continent,country and culture. It takes a devastating toll on women’s lives, on their families and on society as a whole. Most societies prohibit such violence – yet the reality is that too often, it is covered up or tacitly condoned.

– United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon


(CEDAW) Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/cedaw/text/econvention.htm)
Articles 1 to 16 of the Convention are embraced under Zonta’s Objects.

 

Famous Zontian celebrated in January

Amelia Earhart is best known for her feats as a pilot. She set many records as a pilot and as a woman. She was the first person to fly across the United Stats in an autogyro in 1932, the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932, and the first woman to fly non-stop across the United States in 1933. Of course, her plane mysteriously disappeared in 1937 when she was trying to become the first woman to fly around the world.   Two movies in 2009 prominently feature Amelia Earhart. The first is Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonians in which she is portrayed by Amy Adams. The second is Amelia, starring Hilary Swank.  Both have renewed interest in this famous. figure.  

www.ameliaearhart.com is one of MANY websites with information on Amelia. 

 


Award available for HS students in the Quaboag Valley!
The goal of the Zonta International Young Women in Public Affairs (YWPA) Program is to encourage more young women to participate in public and political life by recognizing a commitment to the volunteer sector, evidence of volunteer leadership achievements and a dedication to the advancement of the status of women. $500 from Zonta of Quaboag Valley; winners eligible for District and International awards.  Application 2010   Deadline for submission is 3/1/2010.

 


 

 

January

Commit • Act • Demand: We CAN End Violence Against Women!

1. November 25:   International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against
   Women
    Learn more about Domestic Violence in Massachusetts  Link

2. November 26:   Commit ~ Act ~ Demand
  
Read about the campaign profile  Link

3. November 27:  You Can Make Change Happen

   Up to 70 percent of women experience sexual or physical violence from men in their lifetime. Everybody has a role to play in combating this global pandemic. This is your chance to make a difference and be heard. Suggestions for how YOU can say NO.

4. November 28: Changing what's possible
The YWCA is unlocking new possibilities for women and children seeking shelter from domestic violence.  Find out how YOU can help.

5. November 29:  International Women Human Rights Defenders Day
 Read about WHRD and meet a few of the many women around the globe who have endured all manner of risks and dangers to pursue their activism. 

6. November 30:  Call to Action
Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper, telling them about the 16 Days and the sexual violence taking place in Sudan and elsewhere.  Urge others in your community to get involved.        

7. December 1:  World AIDS Day
Learn more about the campaign to “Stop AIDS. Keep the Promise,” that  demands governments keep their policy commitments related to HIV/AIDS.   

8. December 2  AIDS in the News
Women account for almost half (47 percent) of people living with the disease as of the end of 2007.  To continue learning, click here.   If inspired, join RED.

9. December 3  Different Perspectives
According to the United Nations, marital rape is a prosecutable offense in at least 104 states; in 102 countries there are no specific legal provisions against domestic violence, 50% of women are regularly beaten at home, and marital rape is not a prosecutable offense in at least 53 nations. Read: “ Men and Women Define Domestic Violence Differently.” It is the results of a survey by Liz Claiborne Inc./Women’s Work Program.

10. December 4 Say NO – UNiTE to End Violence Against Women
Zonta International joins UNIFEM in asking members and friends of Zonta around the world to join the global call to make ending violence against women worldwide a top priority. Please click here and adding your name.
11. December 5  Each year, an estimated 3.3 million children witness domestic violence
We need to end the cycle violence. Learn about the effects of domestic violence on children. Watch a public service announcement.

12.  December 6   20th Anniversary of the Montréal Massacre
Learn about Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women and the international movement MenForChange formed in response to this tragedy.

13.  December 7   New to Activisim?
Activism is not a dirty word; it’s about promoting positive social change. Be an informed individual; do something " however little " to call attention to an important problem for which you feel passionate.

14. December 8    Stop the Violence ~ Have a Plan.
If you or someone you know is involved with an abuser, having a safety plan is critical. An important checklist and other resources are available:  www.acadv.org/safety.html and http://ywworks.org/resources.html     No one deserves to be abused.

15. December 9    Can you name 16 forms of gender violence?
Violence against women takes many forms: sexual assault, child marriage, incest, wife beating, prostitution, female genital mutilation, dowry-related violence, trafficking, sexual violence during wars, femicide, sexual harrassment, 'honour' killings, forced sterilization, date rape, pornography and bride kidnapping. Violence against women may also take many forms of psychological abuse, intimidation and harassment. All are unacceptable violations of human rights. Together they form a huge obstacle to gender equality and genuine human progress.    Sixteen Ways UNFPA Works to End Gender Violence

16. December 10    International Human Rights Day
Mark this day by joining thousands of people in the
“Write for Rights” campaign  


The sixteen days are over, but the work continues! 

Commit • Act • Demand: We CAN End Violence Against Women 


 

Relay for Life— Friday June 26 6pm to Saturday June 27 at noon at the Belchertown High School—raised money for the American Cancer Society. Relay teams were made up of members of our club, friends and extended family. Our team will hopefully had a tent and we took turns walking around for the duration of the event. A myriad of fun and educational activities helped keep up the momentum throughout the night while luminarias (candle lanterns) wre lit in honor or memory of loved ones who have had cancer.     

ZQV members—and friends - Thank you for your support!!  More pictures!


Golf Tournament June 13th - Quaboag CC   Monson, MA
Debbie Wood (Belchertown) and Marge Cavanaugh (Three Rivers) are all smiles at the conclusion of the 15th Annual Zonta Club of Quaboag Valley Golf Tournament Fundraiser held Sat., June 13th at Quaboag Valley Country Club. The event is one of the club's major annual events to help raise funds to support local and international programs benefitting women and
their families. Click here for pictures.
 Please remember our great supporting sponsors and donors who we really appreciate!!  We hope you patronize their businesses. 

Country Bank for Savings
Monson Savings Bank
Papale Eye Center
Beers and Story Funeral Home
Easthampton Savings Bank
MiMar Tax Consultants, Palmer
Bell and Hudson Insurance, Belchertown

NEPM (New England Promotional Marketing) Wilbraham
Peter J. Kelly, M.D.
Lisa Fallon, CPA, P.C.
Evergreene Golf, Belchertown
Bright Star Health
Diane Kidd       
Mohegan Sun                
Accurate Accounting    
Marge Cavanaugh         
Quaboag Country Club       
Dunroamin’ Golf Club        
SunStruck Tanning             
Dick’s Sporting Goods        
Morgan Stanley                  
Zaxwear Custom Costume & Dress Wear  
Mary Kay – Donna Roberts 
Di’s Flowers, Belchertown    Gift Certificate
Six Flags New England       
Friendly’s Ice Cream           
Mug and Muffin, Monson    


  Silent "no more!" Auction   May 11, 2009

Because victims of violence need to be heard!   $  was raised and
 donated to the Domestic Violence Task Forces serving Palmer, Ware, Warren and surrounding towns.   


 

April 13 Meeting guest
Susan Jaye-Kaplan from

Link to Libraries - a
not for profit organization whose mission is to collec
t and distribute to public elementary schools and non-profit organizations in Western MA new books that will help children of all cultural backgrounds learn about their world while developing language and literacy skills.  School officials from Palmer, Ware and surrounding towns are encouraged to attend to hear about this remarkable effort.  Members and guests are encouraged to bring their checkbooks.


Help a Child Today!  Do your part to protect children and strengthen families. Read these parenting tips and pass them on!  April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.  Be a giver.


Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship

 

 

 

2009 YWPA Award Offered
The Zonta Club of Quaboag Valley is seeking applications for the 2009 Young Women in Public Affairs Award.  The YWPA award recognizes young women for their commitment to the volunteer sector, volunteer leadership achievements and dedication to the advancement of the status of women. Winners of the $500 local award become eligible for larger awards at the District and International level.

Pre-university or pre-college women students (age 16-20) who reside in the greater Quaboag Valley area are encouraged to open the attached application  or obtain it  from their Guidance Counselor or on-line at www.zontaqv.org.  Questions can be directed to Carol Bardon at cbardon@charter.net.  The deadline for applications is March 25, 2009.   

______________________

An open letter to Zontians:

For almost twenty years I was paid less than my male co-workers. My case went all the way to the Supreme Court — I was shot down. 
But today, President Obama signed into law the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, and told the Supreme Court that they got it wrong. I always hoped this day would come and this is the best news I have heard in a long time. 
I was there with the President when he signed the bill. Here's the video from the signing. 

I can't say thank you enough to the thousands of you who've worked with us in this fight. Your e-mails to Congress, your phone calls, and your letters of support have meant so much to me and to the movement for pay equity for all women. We knew we could count on you — and we couldn't have done it without you. 
In the months and years to come, the fight for fair pay will go on. We're still fighting to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act, and there will be other fronts in battle to close the wage gap once and for all. But we've taken an enormous step forward today. Thanks for taking that step with me.

Sincerely,

Lilly Ledbetter

Lilly Ledbetter

   

The Zonta Roses

The beauty of a single yellow rose has been a favorite Zonta symbol for decades. The yellow rose has adorned many Zonta items from stationery to clothing, and has been used in many charter and anniversary celebrations. The Zonta Rose is much more than a lovely flower. Since 1999, it has served as the symbol of Zonta Rose Day, which falls on 8 March and coincides with International Women’s Day. On this special Day, Zontians worldwide are encouraged to publicly distribute yellow roses, or items bearing the image of yellow roses, accompanied by information about Zonta International and issues relating to improving the lives of women.  more


Audrey Millgate, Zonta District 1 Chairman/US, Legislative Awareness and Advocacy shares the following updates:

53rd Session of the Commission on the Status of Women
The United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) will convene for its 53rd session at United Nations Headquarters in New York on 2–13 March to consider the priority theme, “The equal sharing of responsibilities between women and men, including caregiving in the context of HIV/AIDS.” The Commission’s work will be guided by two reports of the UN Secretary-General on the theme. One will identify and discuss key issues in sharing of responsibilities between women and men and suggest policy recommendations; and a second will provide an overview of mainstreaming efforts related to sharing of responsibilities at the national level. The review theme to be discussed by the Commission is, “Equal participation of women and men in decision-making processes at all levels.” As an emerging issue, participants will also debate “Gender perspectives of the financial crisis.” A special web corner, providing information on the CSW and UNIFEM side events, will be available shortly on the UNIFEM website. Visit the CSW website.


International Women’s Day
This year's International Women’s Day theme is “Women and Men: United to End Violence against Women.” The United Nations will focus on the UN Secretary-General’s multi-year campaign,
UNiTE to End Violence against Women. There will be a number of activities, most notably, a high-level panel discussion on Friday 5 March on this year's theme. For more information, visit the IWD web site closer to the date.


Global Symposium on Engaging Men and Boys in Gender Equality
The Global Symposium on Engaging Men and Boys in Gender Equality will take place in Rio de Janeiro, 30 March – 3 April 2009. Four hundred fifty participants from around the world will share their work in applied research, policy, and program development. Their work challenges rigid gender norms and engages men and boys in reducing violence against women and girls, promoting sexual and reproductive health, HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, and fatherhood and care giving. For more information, visit the website.

 


Zonta of Quaboag Valley   ~  Zonta International  ~  District I ~ Area II    ~ Charter 1317

Contact us by email: info@zontaqv.org
or by mail: Zonta QV   P.O. Box 1034, Belchertown MA 01007-1034                                                

Updated:  02/01/10                                                                    

                                                                                          

Zonta International Convention 2008 Highlights