KANSAS BPW ADVOCATE The official newsletter of THE KANSAS FEDERATION OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CLUBS, INC

______________________________________________________________________________________________ “Kansas BPW: Working Together for a Better Tomorrow” August 2017- Issue 1

=================================================================================== President’s Message

Empowering Tools

for Success

One Step at a

Time”

Dear BPW Members,

State Convention was amazing! If you missed it, you missed a wonderful time of rejuvenation, motivation, and fulfillment. Past President Christina provided an outstanding weekend. We often tell ourselves that it is too difficult to ‘give up a weekend’ for BPW. But let me tell you all, the weekend was magical and we left with new excitement and a path where we DO want to continue our mission and our vision and share it with everyone we can. Please read the ‘highlights’ from State Convention and share with your local that missing the weekend was missing a lot! The emphasis for my year is primarily - ‘empowering tools for success,’-’ one step at a time’. It stems back to a time in our BPW history where we personally looked for help and assistance in the work place - tools - to help us be successful. One way in which we can continue a focus on “women helping women” is taking a one year emphasis where we work “hands-on” to assist all working women and men, (yes! we want to help men as well), women new to their careers, changing careers, etc., with tools in self-improvement and tools for success in the workplace. We will strive to take the (ladder) steps that are necessary to mold and enhance our membership into sharing common ideals and dreams. It allows us not only to hold all the ‘tools’ in place - but it allows us to reach the unreachable - to never give up on each other, and to finish what we set out to accomplish. You cannot build success with one tool - it takes ALL the tools to complete a good product. We will

strive to break barriers - to build bridges, however only bridges that accomplish our successes, not to build walls that block us. Our tools will be the blue print for all of us to

be advocates, to listen, teach, support, and empower women to be aware of their special gifts and their contributions.

My main focus in utilization of these tools is to work with and assist every local club to provide an ID program and to have representation for a speech competition at State Convention. We will have a Young Careerist and an Individual Development speech competition in June. Dr. LewAnn Schneider, our Issues Management Chair has all the tools necessary to assist your local in getting the program up and running. See her article in this newsletter for details. Foundation is offering Grant funds to assist Local’s in their expenses to get the program up and going. We want every local to at least try and attempt this, because once we get visibility with the program, once we get these ladies in the door, introduce them to a wonderful self-improvement program, we know we can “get them hooked”! We become what we behold. We shape our tools and then our tools shape us. I plan to travel to many Local Clubs and check to see how things are going. I can bring any tool you need to assist you along this journey. Remember that a leader is one who: Knows the way - goes the way - and shows the way- that is all of us!! Let’s get Women in our communities: from where they are now - to where they have not been! We have membership coupons this year - My goal is to get at least 13 new members. I look at #13 as a lucky number and a way to always remind us to take a negative and make it a positive. Membership Chair Helen Norman has those coupons ready and available right now! We are planning a great Fall Conference in McPherson. Please mark your calendar and plan to join us in a weekend full of education, motivation and getting exciting ‘tools’ that we will share together and can use to continue in our focus this year; tools so that Women of Kansas can come together with one goal, one vision, one mission, OUR BPW Mission and allow us to change the world, one little tool at a time! President Cindy Cindy Simons 600 Normandy Rd Newton, Kansas 67114 316-772-2890 Cell 316-282-0944 Home Cindylouu55@yahoo.com

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PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS =====================================

Local Organization Awards

2017-2018

Deadline to submit is May 1, 2018

HAMMER AWARD:

Local that has 100% retention of membership Sign 4 new members

Have 4 members attend fall, spring conference and Convention

Young careerist participant Individual Development participant to State Convention

Articles in Advocate each publication during the fiscal year. Local will receive $200.00

NAIL AWARD:

Bring 2 new members to fall, spring and state Four Members from your local attend Fall, Spring and State Convention

Sign 3 new members. Submit Woman of the Year or Business of the

Year Individual Development participant to State

Convention Local will receive $75.00 SCREW DRIVER AWARD:

Participate in Business Women’s’ Week At least 2 Articles in the Advocate Publication

Retain 90% or better retention in membership Sign 2 new members

Individual Development participant to State Convention Local will receive $50.00

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PRESIDENT’S GOALS 2017-2018 =====================================

What has made our BPW successful in the past, may also be workable today with a newer twist.

(1) Let us provide working women with newer tools to be successful in whatever endeavor they are taking. I plan to work with and assist every local club to provide an ID program- whether it be the entire program or maybe just providing it in part.

No matter if the locals take on part or the entire ID program, or one element of the total, I will encourage every local (minimal requirement) to have a representative from their ID program to be part of a 5 minute speech contest at State Convention as well as having a Young Careerist speaking competition too. Both will be represented at State Convention.

(2) I plan to travel to all Local Clubs and check to

see how things are going. I can bring any tool you need to assist you along this journey we will share together.

(3) We have membership coupons this year - My

goal is to get at least 13 new members.

(4) Each local to have at least 2 new attendees at

Fall Conference, Spring Conference, and State

Convention.

PRESIDENT’S FOCUS Every Women in every community is important

and worth our effort to encourage, educate, mentor, and invite. Let’s be committed to defining our vision.

CALL TO FALL MEMBER BOARD

By virtue of the power vested in me as President of the Kansas Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc., I do hereby call the Annual Fall Member meeting to meet at the Best Western Holiday Manor, 2211 East Kansas Avenue, McPherson, Kansas on Sunday October 15, 2017 at 9:00 a.m.

Cindy Simon President BPW/Kansas

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BY-LAWS UPDATE

====================================== During the General Session of the BPW/Kansas State Convention members voted to make changes to the state By-laws. Changes adopted updated the revision date, corrected the wording defining a youth affiliate, removed obsolete wording and changed the dues structure in the appendix. The updated bylaws are on the website. BPW/Kansas members who worked to find obsolete wording and change the bylaws to meet the current practices of the Federation were Ellen Yocum, Barbara Pressgrove, Donna Gratts, Linda Reed, Kathy Niehoff, Christina Rush, Miranda Naylor and Cindy Simons. Thanks to Kathy Niehoff for allowing the long and frequent meetings to be held at her house.

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POLICY & PROCEDURES

====================================== Changes in Federation practices such as changing the Board Meetings to Member meetings made it necessary to make some changes to the policy and procedures. The General Session approved a motion to reimburse the 2016-2017 Board chairs for mileage and hotel at board meeting rates and the 2017-18 bylaws chair be instructed to review the policy and procedures manual. The policy and procedures updated at the Spring member’s meeting March 12, 2017 are available for review on the website.

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HALL OF FAME

====================================== The committee was honored to induct the newest member of the BPW/Kansas Hall of Fame at the Recognition Banquet Saturday June 3, 2017. Inducted into the posthumous Hall of Fame was Cathy Haney, Clay Center BPW. Past State President Charlotte Shawver conducted the induction ceremony. Special guests attending were Chuck & Janice Dunn and Carolyn Chaffee. Cathy Haney was a member of Clay Center BPW where she served four terms as president 1966-67, 1991-92, 1999-2000 and 2006-07. She served as 4th district director, numerous times as a state committee chair and was a competitor in the first Young Careerist competition in 1964-65. She was named Clay Center BPW Woman of the year in 1995-96. Cathy had owned her own floral shop and her expertise was arranging flowers not growing plants. Cathy beautifully decorated tables and elegantly displayed the food for the style shows and afternoon teas Clay Center held. During the years floats were made for the Piotique Parade, Cathy was the source of the “supplies” needed to make a theme come alive. Her collection of curtains, costumes, garlands

and other supplies were stored in labeled popcorn tins with content and color noted. She also carried “The Tool Box” with all the essentials usually forgotten when working on a project such as nails, wire or hammer. Cathy’s meringues were well liked as were her Lemon and Lime bars served at political forums because the contrast of colors and flavors livened up the process. Her flavored divinity, raspberry fudge and assorted pickled items were special favorites. Cathy volunteered at the Clay County Museum and was involved in planning for the new museum’s opening. She loved hats and as a tribute to her, Clay Center members and guests were some of her many hats as she was inducted posthumously into the BPW/Kansas Hall of Fame and her name was added to the Hall of Fame Display Board. The Hall of Fame Committee Sue Rouse – Chair Charlotte Shawver Jane Hanks

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PRESIDENT’S AWARDS 2016-2017 ====================================== BPW/Kansas president Christina Rush presented monetary awards and trophies to the Local Organizations that completed and sent her a report of their activities. Locals receiving awards were Earth $250 Clay Center Mars One Night Free Lodging at State Convention Baldwin City

Garnett Jupiter - $50 Ashland Bonner Springs, Newton Ottawa Outstanding Achievement awards were given to the Local organizations that almost completed the next level. Garnett completed Jupiter and Mars; Ashland Jupiter and most of Earth and Clay Center – Jupiter Each Chair that served on the Board of Directors for President Christina received a trophy for their service to the Federation. One member from each local organization received a handmade necklace charm with their town on it. Winners of the charms were: Ashland- Chris Booth, Baldwin- Nila Olmstead, Bonner Springs – Linda Linkugel, Chanute – Nancy Kernick, Clay Center – Janet Thurlow, Garnett – Jim Myers, Newton – Sue Patrick, Ottawa – Allison Watkins, Members at Large – Dr. Sharon Wiber

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ISSUES MANAGEMENT AWARDS

====================================== Issues Management Chair Donna Gratts recognized local organizations at the BPW/Kansas state convention in Topeka Kansas for submitting Woman of the Year and Community Woman of the Year recipients. She also recognized locals that submitted National Business Women’s Week activities. Those recognized include

Woman of the Year Kathleen Sigvaldson – Baldwin BPW, Lisa Gingles – Clay Center BPW; and Cathy Haney (posthumous) Clay Center

Community Woman of the Year Evelyn Harmon– Ashland BPW; Christy Blagg – Bonner Springs BPW, Davina Barnett - Garnett BPW, Jan Swickard – Newton BPW

Submitted National Business Women’s Week activities Ashland BPW, Baldwin City BPW, Chanute BPW, Clay Center BPW and Newton BPW

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PUBLIC RELATIONS AWARD

====================================== Public Relations chair Fran Graham announced the winner of the Public Relations Award on Saturday June 3, 2017 at the 98th annual state convention held in Topeka KS. There were three Local organizations that submitted Public Relations books- Ashland, Clay Center and Newton. The Award was presented to Clay Center BPW and accepted by President Dr. LewAnn Schneider.

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THANK YOU

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From the desk of… Christina Rush PSP

A special thank you to all the wonderful members who helped me to “Embrace and Improve the World one day at a time” this past year. Words cannot express how much I truly appreciated and relied on your support during my year as your President. Some people make the world special just by being in it and BPW Kansas has the market on very special people. My year was not without some challenge, we weathered the storm together in strength, professionalism, and history. And because of all that challenging work and dedication the end results were very positive for our organization to continue to grow and be strong. Challenges are like summer storms, everything is more beautiful when they have passed. Our organization like so many others has struggled to grow in its members. The challenge was issued and you

surpassed my goal and then some, let’s keep that positive energy going for President Cindy. I wanted to tell you that the extraordinary gifts I received at Convention completed my year. The beautiful plaque is now hanging in my living room, unfortunately the Chocolate did not survive the trip home (boy was it good). I hope that over the year you had the opportunity to learn something from the different programs that were presented for you. If not here is one final thing I would like for you to remember. It is the simple things of life that make living worthwhile God Bless Christina Rush PSP

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MEMBERSHIP AWARDS

====================================== Membership chair Helen Norman presented members and local organizations with awards during state convention in June. New members received a membership trophy as did new member sponsors presented by President Christina Rush. Bonner Springs member Janene Gallagher sponsored the most new members helping the Federation finish the 2016-17 club year with153 members. The new member goal set at the 2016 post convention board was 12. A total of 15 new members were gained

****************************** October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month

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CLUB ETERNAL

====================================== Past State President and BPW/Kansas Historian Sue Patrick conducted the Club Eternal ceremony Friday, June 2, 2017 as part of the 98th annual state convention held at the Capital Plaza Hotel in Topeka KS. Three members were honored this year, Cathy Haney, Hazel Myrtle Badger and Patricia Dalton Graham. Wearing one of Cathy’s hats, Dr. LewAnn Schneider told about Cathy Haney, Clay Center and her dedication to the museum, her baking and her involvement in BPW. Charlotte Shawver gave memories of Hazel Myrtle Badger, Topeka who was active in BPW when Charlotte joined. Garnett members Helen Norman and Shirley Benjamin Remembered Patricia Dalton Graham, Garnett. They shared pictures of Patricia and showed a copy of “Isabella- A Pioneer Battered Woman” the book she wrote. A candle was lit in honor and memory of each departed member. In addition ten candles one for each of the ten local organizations were lit in respect and reverence for all the members who have gone before. Lighting the candles representing the Local organizations were Ashland –Chris Booth; Baldwin-Debbie Grosdidier, Bonner Springs- Brook Rentz, Chanute – Nancy Kernick, Clay Center – Lisa Gingles, Garnett- Shirley Benjamin, Newton – Ellen Yocum, Ottawa – Linda Reed, Member at Large – Dr, Sharon Wiber, Topeka – PSP Lisa Gingles. All candles remained lit during the convention, Each Local Organization was encouraged to take a candle home.

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BPW/CLAY CENTER ID WORKSHOP ======================================

Clay Center BPW is offering an Individual Development Advanced Workshop on October 28, 2017 in Clay Center at the Emergency Services Academy building, located at the corner of 2nd Street and Lincoln Avenue. Along with the core modules many are familiar with and which are the basis of the Individual Development training, additional teaching will be offered on Legislation and Media in Public Relations.

Core modules on Developing Leadership Qualities, Behavior Styles, Networking and Oral Presentations will be presented by Lisa Gingles, Dr. LewAnn Schneider and Dana Rickley. “We want to attract high school students and business women who need that extra assistance in building a strong foundation for communication, as well as bring back past Individual Development participants with new Modules that are relevant in today’s business world. “Stated Jeanna Fancella, Co-Chair of the event. Special reduced pricing for BPW members is being offered at $15, to entice past I.D. graduates as well as new members who have never taken the workshop before. For non-BPW members the cost is $25. The registration includes a training manual, lunch and snacks through the day. The fun begins at 8am and concludes with certificate

presentations at 4:30pm. The Individual Development Advanced workshop is a well-rounded training that everyone can benefit from. It will be a fun and educational event! Completion of the workshop also meets the requirement for application of the BPW/KS Individual Development Scholarship. Questions can be directed to Lisa Gingles by calling 785-630-0984 or Jeanna Fancella at 785-447-0129. Registration deadline is October 21, 2017.

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ISSUES MANAGEMENT

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President Cindy is focused on the Individual Development Program (ID program) as a huge benefit to BPW members. To allow all members to benefit, two modules will be presented on Saturday of Fall Conference as workshop options. One module will consist of networking tips, resume’ writing and dressing for success. The second module topic will be mentoring. BPW/Kansas Vice-President Dana Rickley will be the presenter on mentoring. We plan to offer two more modules at Spring Conference and at least two more at convention. We will track attendance. Certificates will be awarded as members complete the program. This allows members who are unable to attend a full day seminar to reap the benefits of ID. If a local wants to host an Individual Development Program and needs assistance with speakers or organizing the event, please contact me. I have a list of willing and qualified presenters. Remember there are grants available from Kansas BPW Educational Foundation, Inc. to support the program. Additionally, it is time to ask your local mayor to sign a proclamation declaring the third full week of October as National Business Women’s Week, October 15-21, 2017. Several local organizations honor their Women of the Year and Business of the Year during activities held that week. Whenever you have those honorees selected, feel free to submit their paperwork to me: LewAnn Schneider, DVM, 2271 Broughton Road, Clay Center, KS 67432, drlewann@twinvalley.net, 785-313-7471. Each local who submits to me what their National Business Women’s Week activities will be recognized at BPW/KS Convention 2018. Issues Management Chair Dr. LewAnn Schneider

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YOUNG CAREERITS

====================================== ATTENTION YOUNG CAREERISTS Ages 35 and under Plan to attend our Fall Conference where you will meet new friends, experience great workshops and meet other Young Careerists in a group interaction setting. Plan to bring a friend!

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BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

====================================== Donna Gratts, Issues Management chair, presented the awards for Business of the Year Saturday June 3, 2017 at the 98th annual convention recognition banquet. Awarded Business of the Year with more than 15 employees was Clay County Medical Center. CEO Austin Gillard and Directory of Planning Marcia Newell accepted the award. Representative Susie Swanson and Senator Tom Hawk were present to share in the honor.. Clay County Medical Center established in 1903 is a 25 bed critical access hospital – 3 bed Obstetrical and 19 impatient acute care/swing bed (or skilled nursing care) facility. The Medical Center employs over 100 people, provides support for dependent care and has established liberal parental leave policies. It has exhibited sensitivity to needs of female employees and provided opportunities for upward mobility and additional training for female employees. It has upgraded pension plans for female employees and established a job evaluation system that creates salary levels providing equal pay for equal work and allows for salaries based on comparable worth. The Business was sponsored by Clay Center BPW. Awarded the Business of the Year with less than 15 employees was CS Slaton & Co, Ashland KS. Accepting the award was Diana Redger, President Ashland BPW. CS Slaton & Co established in October 1973 is an accounting service owned by accountants Randy Harmon, Larry Konrade and Kelly McCarty. They employ another accountant Kelsey Henderson and Jeanette Seacat is the office manager. The company provides all continuing education for employees and encourages employees to gain education in specialized areas of accounting. It is very accommodating to employees pursuing higher educational degrees. The company offers disability insurance and maternity leave on an equal basis and does have a retirement plan. Time off to attend children’s activities, illnesses or appointments is very flexible. They do have extended hours during tax season but accommodate family and civic obligations...

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POST CONVENTION BOARD

====================================== The Post Convention Board meeting was held Sunday, June 4, 2017 at the Topeka Plaza Hotel in Topeka Kansas with 32 members present. BPW/Kansas President Cindy Simon presided over the meeting which included reports and routine business. Highlights include: Approved Rules of Order President Cindy recognized the Board of Directors

giving each a gift of a small ladder pin. No correspondence

Executive Secretary Kathy Niehoff needs new member’s information and change of address and emails for all members to receive the newsletter. She also needs complete information for new Local officers

Executive Board appointed Allison Watkins as timekeeper

Finance Chair Debbie Grosdidier explained vouchers and asked chairs to use the green voucher

Issues Management Chair Dr. LewAnn Schneider announced awards available for the year

Jenny Myers Garnett BPW announced Garnett will Host Spring conference

Membership chair Helen Norman advised the new member $10 coupons are valid until December 31 for the 2017-18 club year. She’d like to see 13 new members.

Kansas BPW Educational Foundation, Inc. President Diana Redger reported on the election of officers. She also announced the Foundation fundraiser will be the 2nd annual wreath contest with Jenny Myers as the chair.

Diana Redger, newsletter editor, reminded members she receives the articles and Ex. Secretary receives changes to emails and addresses.

Public Relations chair Fran Graham gave the four W’s that make a good article – Who, What, When and Where. Encouraged L/O’s to make reports before and after an event or meeting

President Cindy Simons gave president’s report. Plans to highlight ID program, gain 13 new members and listed her goals for the year.

Approved the $10 coupon incentive program for new members joining no later than December 31 and members referring receive $10 off membership up to 4 referrals a year

Approved the 2017-18 proposed budget as corrected Approved appointment of Jeanna Fancella as

nominations chair Approved Kathy Niehoff as Executive secretary for

2017-18 and the monthly storage fee of $210 Approved all BPW/Kansas records be placed with the

Executive Secretary. Approved Jenny Myers as the reconciler for state funds Approved Peoples National Bank of Ottawa as

Depository for Federation funds. Approved Wichita Insurance Company as bonding

agent for state treasurer Approved 2017-18 Hall of Fame Committee with Jane

Hanks, Chair, Charlotte Shawver and Kathy Niehoff. Approved Barbara Pressgrove Chair, Linda Linkugel,

and Jane Gingles as the 2017-18 annual financial review committee

Approved the 2017-18 Legislative platform Approved the Legislative platform adoption be

reconsidered. President Cindy announced the appointment of a task

force to include Federation and Foundation members to go over budget items and money appropriations.

Announced National Business Women’s Week is October 15-22, 2017

Meeting adjourned with singing the Emblem Benediction

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KANSAS BPW EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

====================================== The Kansas BPW Educational Foundation, Inc. invites all members to attend the Kansas BPW Fall Conference October 14, 2017. The Foundation pays up to $15 towards the registration fee for each member in good standing who attends. The Foundation is also offering Mary Tefft Grants for the conference which will cover meals included in the registration. The recognition dinner will feature the scholarship recipients and a speaker. Although the Foundation is providing dinner only for the loan and scholarship recipients we encourage the sponsoring locals to check with them and provide transportation or dinner for family members who would like to attend this special evening with them. Please keep in

mind the final reservation date is October 1. Please contact the Foundation president or the meetings manager for additional information.

Foundation Fundraiser This year local organizations and members are invited to create a wreath and donate it to the Foundation’s 2nd annual wreath contest fundraiser. Registration is free. Wreaths can be of any kind as there is no theme and should be of reasonable size. Donated wreaths will be sold in both a silent and live auction setting. There will also be a wreath ballot to pick the most creative, best theme and favorite. Members donating wreaths can complete a transmittal form to gain credit for the cost of the wreath toward their annual giving. Members purchasing wreaths may complete a form too. Plan to make a wreath, buy a wreath or both. The Board of Directors is looking forward to see how creative BPW members can be. ANNUAL MEETING The Kansas BPW Educational Foundation held its annual meeting on Saturday June 3, 2017 in conjunction with the BPW/Kansas convention. Elected as Board members for a three year term were Helen Norman and Diana Redger. Treasurer Helen Norman reported total assets of

$108,944.37 as of 5/23/2017. Board member, Jenny Myers gave the report of board actions. President Diana Redger announced the names of Foundation supporters as the board members presented certificates of giving to each. Sue Patrick Newton BPW took pictures of the recipients. Thanks so much Sue. Motions made during the meeting approved paying fall conference registration up to $15 for all members in good standing, purchasing dinner for loan and scholarship recipients who attend the recognition dinner and accepting Mary Tefft Grants for all 2017-18 state meetings from members in good standing. Nominations for the two open Board of Directors positions resulted in three candidates. Each candidate told the members why they wanted to serve on the Foundation board of directors before the meeting

was recessed for elections and lunch. After lunch, election results were announced before the meeting was adjourned. Foundation Board Meeting The Board of Directors held an organizational meeting to elect officers and conduct other business following the annual meeting. The Board of Directors elected the following officers: Diana Redger, President; Jenny Myers, Vice President; Linda Reed, Secretary; and Helen Norman, Treasurer. Jane Gingles and Dr. LewAnn Schneider hold member status. 2016-2017 ANNUAL AWARDS Contributor - $5.00 to $99.00: Chris Anderson, Shirley Benjamin, Sandy Case, Jeanna Fancella, Jeannine Gallagher, Donna Gratts, Debbie Grosdidier, Erin Grosdidier, Jane Hanks, Miranda Naylor, Nancy Olson, Sue Patrick, Barbara Pressgrove, Brooke Rentz,

Dan Simmons, Janet Thurlow, Allison Watkins Friend – $100.00 to $199.00: Chris Booth, Jane Gingles, Fran Graham, Helen Norman, Dana Rickley, Susan Roberts, Dr. Sharon Wiber, Supporter - $200.00 to $299.00: None Patron - $300.00 to $499.00 Diana Redger Linda Reed, Cindy Simon Investor Linda Linkugel President’s Circle - $1,000.00: Tony Caputo, Janene Schneider, Dr LewAnn Schneider.

Local Organizations Contributing $3.00 or more Per Capita

annually based on April 30, 2017 membership. (Totals do not

include the $2.00/member dues). All amounts are per capita: Ashland - $31.00, Baldwin City - $7.59, Bonner Springs - $27.56, Clay Center - $52.38, Garnett - $18.67, Newton - $23.00, member-a-Large - $568.91, Ottawa - $30.45. Local Organization contributions were made by Ashland, Baldwin City, Clay Center and Newton. There were no Corporate Donors or Special contributions.

General information The silent auction, cash and carry items including plants and the clothes closet Saturday at state convention along with regular donations raised $1146.50 for Foundation. Everyone was most generous and Foundation thanks each of you for supporting this annual convention activity. Remaining clothes were donated to the Clothes Closet in Clay Center. Anyone wishing to make a contribution to Foundation may send it with a transmittal form to Foundation treasurer Helen Norman, 41 Lakeshore Dr. Garnett KS 66032. Transmittal forms are available on the website. Thank you for thinking of Foundation when making a contribution or memorial in honor or memory of a friend. Loan and scholarship recipients will receive information from Foundation the middle of August. Encourage them to attend the recognition dinner or if not possible to send an updated letter or email telling of their educational activities. The Board of Directors looks forward to seeing you at Fall Conference. Remember, registration is our Treat! Diana Redger, President Kansas BPW Educational Foundation, Inc. redger@ucom.net

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Ashland BPW Participates in Clark Co. Fair ============================================== Members of Ashland Business and Professional Women’s Club participated in the 2017 Clark County Fair July 20-22, 2017. Members had entries in garden, clothing, quilts (wall hangings), barn quilts, photography and fine arts including wreaths and porcelain dolls. Several members were thrilled to receive Grand Champion on their entry and were glad to help make the fair great! Friday July 21, 2017 Ashland BPW sponsored Kids Games including beanbag toss, ring toss, toss 3 across, duck pond and Go Fish. Children 10 and under enjoyed trying their luck at winning prizes courtesy of the Clark County Sheriff’s Department. Each player was provided a bag to hold their treasures that included stuffed turtles, sea animals such as seahorses, whales and dolphins, small beach balls and sunglasses. Saturday Ashland BPW participated in the Fair parade celebrating its 70th anniversary with the theme “Ashland BPW 70 Years Strong 1947-2017”. Ashland Fireman Austin Borgelt drove the Fire Department’s Argo with members Chris Booth, Kim Canton and Linda Brower tossing candy to those watching the parade.

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CHANUTE’S MAIN STREET

====================================== Part of a program given by Sharon Harrison to Chanute BPW about Women Businesses on Main Street (has been edited from original for space) Empty store fronts are becoming a very familiar sight in America’s small towns. Chanute was included in a study on local small town’s main streets or downtowns by Iola’s Thrive organization. Chanute did not fare as well as Iola’s square but it is trying! It is getting some life on Main Street and a surprising number of women are behind many small business’s working to bring downtown back to a “Destination for Shopping”! It is a slow process and many still don’t see the results, yet! But WE are working on it and by saying “We” I mean We as Women! Not all main street businesses are owned by women, but so many are and several are co-owned with husbands and the women run part or most of the public seen areas of the business. In a single block of Chanute about 50% of the businesses are owned by women and another 25% are managed by women. Not all of Chanute’s main street businesses fall into this same percentage break but there are about twenty-two woman owned businesses including florist, hair salons, masseuse, boutiques, Sears franchise, antiques, small venue, clothing boutiques, consignment store, custom clothing and accessories. Others are managed by women including restaurants, the Dollar Store, Payday Loans, retail and old style soda fountain. There are other main street

jobs held by women such as lawyers, bank officer’s pharmacist, teachers, pastors, and nurses. Main Street is showing how women are taking on the business world and trying to revitalize our small town main street! We women are smart! By starting business on the Main Street or downtown areas where other small businesses are growing creates a shopping destination where more than one shop is available to find that “just right gift. Women are taking advantage of main street shopping districts and are working together to provide a different selection from shop to shop increasing sales and activity! Talk of the Town is a woman owned business with an all-woman staff. It supports two local women offering their handmade products. It works with nearby shops owned or run by women to try and vary the selection of items offered the main street shopper. If one shop doesn’t have the requested item, the shopper is sent to other stores. There are still opportunities on Chanute’s Main Street. All one needs is a plan! With a great idea and business plan you can begin the application process through CRDA, Main Street and the Small Business Administration. The Chanute Chamber of Commerce can provide a list of avenues for business start-up and help in other ways. Chanute Chamber of Commerce and Chanute Mains Street offices are run by Women!

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NATIONAL BUSINESS WOMEN”S WEEK

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National Business Women’s Week is held during the third full week of October and honors and celebrates the contributions of working women. NBWW provides an opportunity to recognize and highlight the progress women have made as professionals, business owners and entrepreneurs. The week provides an opportunity to call attention to the needs of working women by providing informative and educational programs. Support for women through educational scholarships and community recognition is also highlighted. This year National Business Women’s Week is October 15-22, 2017. Begin the week with a proclamation signed by the mayor, have an informative program or name a woman of the year then share your activities with BPW/Kansas Issues Management chair Dr. LewAnn Schneider to be recognized by the state federation.

************ Mary Teftt Grants are available for fall conference. Deadline

to apply is Thursday September 21. Send to Foundation president Diana Redger. Include registration form with all activities participating in marked, write an essay on either “What BPW is to me” or “Why BPW is important to women” (Not less than ½ page or more than 2 pages). Sign a statement agreeing to volunteer if needed during the meeting. The grant may be mailed or emailed.

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KANSAS STATE CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS

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The 98th BPW/Kansas State Convention was held at the Capital Plaza Hotel in Topeka Kansas June 2-4. 2017. President Christina Rush’s theme “Embrace and Improve the World One Day at a Time” and her focus “Improving oneself and one’s community were used in planning the workshops and celebrating the achievements of the Local Organizations and their members. Friday June 2 State Convention chair Susan Roberts gave a passport to each member in which to place special stamps and stickers highlighting each activity participated in throughout the weekend. Friday’s general session included the first credential reading, the adoption of the convention rules and the Club Eternal Ceremony presented by PSP Sue Patrick. The candles were kept burning throughout the weekend in remembrance of all BPW members who have gone before. Saturday June 3, 2017 the business meeting reconvened with by-laws chair Barbara Pressgrove presented several by-law changes that were approved by the body. The committee responsible for going through the bylaws and policy and procedures manual were commended for their good job and hard work. A discrepancy between the Federation practice and the policy and procedures was resolved by adopting a motion to reimburse committee chairs for mileage and hotel at board meeting rates and have the 2017-18 bylaws chair review the policy and procedure manual to make the necessary changes. A second credential’s report was followed by the nomination of Federation officers and a candidate’s forum. There being only one person for each office a unanimous ballot was cast for the candidates. President Elect Linda Reed, Vice-president Dana Rickley, Secretary – Sue Patrick and Treasurer - Miranda Naylor. . The Federation general session was recessed for the Kansas BPW Educational Foundation, Inc. annual meeting. Two new board members were elected Linda Reed and Diana Redger. Local organizations and members were recognized for their support. After the Foundation’s candidate forum, the meeting was recessed for voting and lunch. Lunch featured sandwiches and more stamps for the passport along with purple petunias for the past state presidents. Each member received a small basket of flowers too. Following lunch Richard Knoll of Cruise Holiday of Topeka spoke about his leisure travel business and gave tips for traveling here or abroad. Knoll gave tips on getting a passport, using travel agents, keeping track of luggage, scams, insurance and travel ideas. He had door prizes too. The general session reconvened and additional business conducted included approval of the 2017-18 meeting dates and sights for BPW/Kansas conferences and the convention and the 2017-18 Board of Directors. Issues Management

chair Donna Gratts presented Woman of the Year and Community Woman of the Year certificates and recognized Local organizations that had National Business Women’s week activities. Public Relations chair Fran Graham recognized Ashland Clay Center and Newton for completing Public Relations books. Clay Center was presented the Public Relations award. Membership chair Helen Norman and President Christina Rush presented membership trophies to new members, and sponsor trophies to new member sponsors. President Christina then announced the winners of the President’s awards who were given trophies and monetary awards. Special awards were given to local organizations that had almost completed another award level. Handmade charms with the local organization town on them were given to one member of the local through a drawing. The 2016-2017 Young Careerist Miranda Naylor gave her speech to the general body before Vice President Linda Reed presented the official state gifts and state historian Sue Patrick presented the state scrapbook. Throughout the convention door prizes were given away to the attending members. A clothing exchange, a selection of potted plants and a silent auction benefitting Foundation gained additional funds for the coming year’s scholarships. A meet and greet the officers was held before the Saturday recognition banquet began. Following dinner, Issues Management Chair Donna Gratts announced the Business of the Year recipients. Clay Center Medical Center sponsored by Clay Center BPW received the business of the year 15 or more employees. Representing the Medical center were CEO Austin Gillard and Director of Planning Marcia Newell. CS Slaton & Co an accounting service owned by Randy Harmons, Larry Konrade and Kelly McCarty received business of the year less than 15 employees. A letter was read on their behalf by Ashland President Diana Redger who accepted the award in their absence Unveiling the new inductee to the posthumous category of the Hall of Fame was Committee member Charlotte Shawver. Cathy Haney, Clay Center was formally inducted with a tribute to her volunteerism and love of hats. Following Christina Rush’s farewell address, the installation of the 2017-2018 officers was conducted by past state presidents Dr. Sharon Wiber and Fran Graham using the new year’s theme Empowering Tools for Success – One Step at a time. The Newton BPW hosted a reception following the installation. Officers installed were President Cindy Simon, President – Elect Linda Reed, Vice President Dana Rickley, Secretary Sue Patrick and Treasurer Miranda Naylor.

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Bring a Christmas Tree ornament to Fall Conference for

an ornament exchange during lunch.

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BPW TIDBITS

====================================== Newton BPW held its July meeting on the 10th of July, State President Cindy Simons installed the Officers for the year 2017-2018. They are Kim Fioessinger-President, Jennifer Miles-Vice President, Pat Jensen-Secretary and Ellen Yocum-Treasurer. After the meeting a reception was held. Newton gained one new member for the coming year.

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Miranda Naylor Garnett BPW was named the 2016-17 Young Careerist at State Convention. Congratulations Miranda!

*********************** Fran Graham celebrated her 90th birthday with a reception July 29, 2017 in Olathe KS hosted by PSP Dr. Sharon Wiber.

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Kansas website – http://kansasbpw.memberlodge.org NOTES For information regarding a change of address for your advocate mailing or other information, please contact Kansas BPW Executive Secretary, Kathy Niehoff, at the following address and phone: 605 E 15Th, Ottawa KS 66067 Home Phone: 785-242-9319 e-mail kathyniehoff@scbglobal.net

BPW/KANSAS ADVOCATE BPW/Kansas C/O Executive Secretary Kathy Niehoff 605 E 15th Ottawa KS 66067

ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED

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BPW CALENDAR

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October 14, 2017 Fall Conference

McPherson, KS

October 15, 2017 Fall Business Meeting

McPherson, KS

October 15-22, 2017 Nat’l Business Women’s

Week

January 31, 2018 Hall of Fame

Nominations Due

March 1. 2018 Nominations for State

Offices

March 10, 2018 Spring Conference

McPherson, KS

March 11, 2018 Spring Business Meeting

McPherson, KS

June 1-3, 2018 State Convention

McPherson, KS

********************** NOTE: Please send items for the newsletter to Diana Redger, Newsletter Editor, Box 122, Ashland, KS 67831 phone 620-635-

2546. E-mail redger@ucom.net

2017 BPW/KANSAS FALL CONFERENCE AGENDA

“We Nailed it!”

“Fully equipping tools in the tool shed”

Saturday

8:00 - 9:00 Registration - “Emoj Madness”- Tools in the Social Shed 9:00-9:15 Welcome - McPherson Chamber of Commerce 9:15-9:30 Introductions and Announcements - Lisa Gingles 9:30-10:15 Speaker Ruth Williams Changing careers at what age?? 10:15-11:00 Break

11:00-11:45 Speaker Angela Anderson NMC/ Balancing Family w/Crazy work load 11:45-12:00 Announcements and Door Prizes - Lisa Gingles & Clay Center BPW 12:00-1:30 Lunch with Runway Show / Christmas Tree Ornament Exchange

1:30-2:30 Workshop - “Shape our Tools- then our Tools Shape Us”

Phase I President Cindy and Lisa Gingles OR 1:30-2:30 Workshop - YC and ID Dr. Sharon Wiber, Miranda Naylor,

And Dr. LewAnn Schneider 2:30-2:45 Break

2:45-3:45 Workshop Phase II Continued OR 2:45-3:45 Workshop - YC and ID Continued w/ Wiber, Naylor, and

And Dr. LewAnn Schneider 3:45-5:00 Workshop Phase III - Roundup and “Show-Time” !! 5:00 Announcements

6:00 Dinner Foundation/ Guest Speaker: TBA This is a tentative agenda. Times of speakers may change. Workshops in the afternoon you will NOT

want to miss so bring a guest, a friend, or even a stranger!!

Sunday 9:00am Business Meeting - Continue sharpening your tools !!!

FALL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

HOLIDAY MANOR BEST WESTERN

2211 EAST KANSAS AVENUE

MCPHERSON, KANSAS 67460

OCTOBER 13-15, 2017

“WE NAILED IT!”

‘FULLY EQUIPPING TOOLS IN THE TOOL SHED’ Friday Evening “Emoj Madness Happy Hour” 6:00 - 8:00 pm Cocktails and Munchies By donation Saturday Registration Sunset Room 8:00 am

(Continental Breakfast for Hotel Guests) Saturday Registration Fee ($15.00 each) __________$00.00

Member Paid by Foundation all others $15 Saturday Luncheon Runway Show & Christmas Tree Ornament Exchange 12:00 - 1:30

Meal: Choice of Tuna Salad, Ham Salad, or Chicken Salad on Croissant Includes choice of Potato Chips, House Salad, or Pasta Salad

Drink of coffee and Iced tea included. __________ $12.00

Saturday Evening Meal Foundation Host 6:00 p.m. MAKE CHOICE: Chicken Cordon Blue

(Baby carrots & rice pilaf) __________$18.95 OR

Beef Tips __________$18.95 (Mashed Potatoes & Green Beans)

BOTH meals come with Dinner Salad, Dinner Rolls and Dessert. Sunday Morning Registration (Sunday arrivals only) __________$10.00

OTAL: $_______________ ********************************************************************************** NAME: ________________________________ LOCAL: ___________________________ Address: _______________________________ PHONE: ___________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ALL FEES, REGISTRATION, AND MEALS MUST BE SENT TO:

Meeting Manager - Lisa Gingles, 728 Lincoln Avenue, Clay Center, Kansas 67432 REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS OCTOBER 1, 2017

For Reservations to Best Western Manor, Call (620) 241-5343 or (888) 841-0038 Room Rates (TENTATIVE) Range between $79.00 - $89.00 / room. Tell them you are with

BPW/Kansas