MINUTES – October 14, 2009

CONDUCTING: Debra Poulsen

PRAYER: Dalane England

PLEDGE: Evelyn Neville

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Debra Poulsen reminded those present of the weekly Constitution classes held on Tuesday evenings at 7 pm at the American Legion Building in Bountiful. She said they are excellent!

Dalane England encouraged us to be aware, educated and active in our communities, especially with upcoming elections. She cited a couple of recent issues in Bountiful and said she has a more detailed list if anyone wants to contact her.

PRINCIPLE of FREEDOM: Jyl Marsden presented Principle #22 from The 5000 Year Leap on a free people being governed by law and not the whims of men. Without law, our rights are not secure and we are actually less free because we are not protected. She also shared the fact that she was a little hesitant about reading this book, but since doing so, she loves it. She said because it was out in their home, even her 17-year-old son picked it up and read it! Thank you for the great endorsement, Jyl.

GUEST SPEAKER: Nancy Peterson introduced our guest speaker, Mr. Alexander Dushku. He is a graduate of the BYU Law School and has been a partner in the Salt Lake City law firm of Kirton & McConkie since 1996. In 2007, he and former Solicitor General Kenneth W. Starr coauthored a brief to the California Supreme Court in the Marriage Cases on behalf of major faith groups. The brief demonstrated the importance of traditional marriage and its vital role in society.

Mr. Dushku very eloquently expanded on the topic of law in a democratic society. He began by reminding us that even our great country will have ups and downs, but that it is always essential for people to keep ‘fighting for what is right. He commended the United Women’s Forum for being one on those “small groups that are the underpinnings of democracy.”

He talked about the meaning of law and said that the ‘rule of law’ exists to resolve conflicts. He said that one of his main points today would be for us to know that the law is not made or enforced by God or machines but by men and women like us. That is why it is so vital that we help elect good, moral representatives in government.

He told us the history of the gay marriage issue in California from its earliest beginnings to the most recent Proposition 8 results in the last election. He told of the series of progressive rights extended in that state that has been one of the things that led to the current ‘conflict’ there. As noted in his introduction, he has been to the California Supreme Court on this issue.

He taught us of the different kinds of laws and who those are that end up interpreting and administering laws that are made. He emphasized once again that “we cannot escape the rule of man on this earth.” He brought us full circle to his opening point about the importance of good, moral people working to elect good, moral and righteous leaders. He also said “there is no escape from the hard work of democracy.” Be open, educated and involved!

SALADS & ROLLS were provided by Janet Seamons and Julie Hattabaugh.

NEXT MEETING: November 14, 2009 at the Bella Vida Clubhouse at 10:00 a.m. Our guest speaker will be Gayle Ruzicka, President of the Utah Eagle Forum.

MINUTES - September 9, 2009

Conducting: Kris Kimball

Prayer: Jyl Marsden

Pledge: Kris Kimball

Announcements: Freedom’s Light Foundation presents A Celebration of the Constitution September 17, @ Northridge High School 7:00pm. September 18^th and 19^th @ Bountiful City Park from 10:00-10:00PM. Great event to attend with the whole family and it’s free. Thanks to Dalane England and all her work in putting this together this year.

Constitution Classes are still available on Tuesday Evenings at the American Legion Hall at 52 W. 200 S. in Bountiful. Classes presented through the Thomas Jefferson Center.

Don’t forget to vote this coming Tuesday September 15^th. Jennifer Brown and her husband are attending the Freedom Rally in Washington D.C. this weekend. 9-12 Rally will be up at the State Capitol from 10:00-2:00PM on September 12^th.

Principle of Freedom: Our Vice President Diane Prince presented the 18^th Principle from the 5,000 Year Leap.

Guest Speaker: Jeff Allen gave a great lesson through Key Word Analysis on the 18^th Principle which is: The unalienable rights of the people are most likely to be preserved if the principles of government are set forth in a written Constitution” We learned that a weakness of the Anglo-Saxon Common Law was that it was not written down. The tradition of written constitutions in modern times is entirely of American origin. Something else we can be proud of as Americans!

Salads were provided by; Marge Clayton and Celestia Himstreet

Next Meeting:

October 14^th at 10:00am at the Bella Vida Clubhouse in North Salt Lake. Our guest speaker will be Alexander Dushku Attorney and authority on Constitutional Law. We will be studying the 22 Principle; A Free People should be governed by law and not by the whims of men.

INVITATION

We invite you join us at our FIRST fundraiser event! Featuring guest speakers Congressman Jason Chaffetz
and Bob Lonsberry, this casual attire dinner event will be a night you don't want to miss! Join us Friday,
June 5th at the Butterfield Park Pavilion in Herriman, Utah beginning at 7 p.m. Click here for the location.

Please RSVP today and let us know you will be here to support Freedom and The Patrick Henry Caucus!

Are you unable to attend? You can still show your support by making your donation today!

The Patrick Henry Caucus is dedicated to the ideals established by our Founding Fathers as enshrined in the
Declaration of Independence and in the Constitution. The Caucus believes the Constitution is an inspired
document and should be adhered to strictly, as the Founders intended.
For more information, please visit www.thepatrickhenrycaucus.org

MAY MINUTES

United Women’s Forum Minutes

May 13, 2009 - Bella Vida Clubhouse, North Salt Lake, Utah.

Our new president, Kris Kimball welcomed us and outlined the format of today’s meeting. She thanked the Bella Vida people for allowing us the use of their beautiful facility. She recognized our hostess, Annette for preparing things for us. An opening prayer was offered by Barbra Spuhler and we were led in the Pledge of Allegiance by Jyl Marsden.

Given the current political climate, Vicki Harbertson presented the timely Principle of Freedom to us. It is Principle #19 from Cleon Skousen’s book, “The 5000 Year Leap”. The subject is “Only Limited and Carefully Defined Powers should be Delegated to Government, all Others Being Retained in the People.” She said that the limiting power of the federal government was one of the most hotly contested issues among the founding fathers. The writers of the Constitution carefully crafted the writing of it to protect the rights of states and the rights of citizens. The adversary of these protected rights has always been the love of power by an individual or groups of individuals. Thankfully, these writers of our Constitution included an elaborate system of checks and balances; however, as citizens we must watch closely those who would try to destroy these protections.

Dalane England then presented a couple of announcements. Her first was her idea of starting a “Constitution Day” to be held in Bountiful on or around September 17^th, which was the day the U.S. Constitution was signed. This is a mandated subject of instruction in the public schools, but is often given insufficient attention. Her concept is to have a community ‘festival’ patterned after the successful Colonial Days held in the summer in Provo, Utah. She would want to include people from our forum and the surrounding community as a whole, as well as the youth from the local schools, first-person dramatizations, costumes, speakers, etc. She is looking for interest level and volunteers right now. She also has a quote from President Brigham Young, second president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and the first Governor of Utah which is still timely concerning our stewardship over the earth that we live on. She has a few copies available and will email it to anyone who is interested in reading it.

Laura Bunker of United Families International gave some brief comments about a local issue. She made us aware again of an experience at a public hearing in Bountiful some months ago concerning an alcohol variance for a restaurant. A group of citizens were treated with inappropriate disrespect by city leaders as they raised their voice of opposition on this variance; it was later made known that the granting of this variance was a “deal behind closed doors”. In any case, there is a high level of interest among many citizens for a change in public officials. There are already two candidates, Jeff Novak and Phil Wright. She encouraged members of our forum to be actively involved in being involved in this in any way that they can give support. She made us aware of a public meeting to be held the evening of June 18 at the Bountiful Library for any citizens of this city.

Kris Kimball made two quick announcements before beginning the DVD presentation. First, she made us aware of a news conference at noon on Wednesday, May 20 at the Capitol building in conjunction with the Patrick Henry Caucus (States’ Rights). Secondly, she referenced something to watch for this October—a film called “Not Evil, Just Wrong” based on scientific evidence of climate change. This was a good lead-in to the DVD of a speech presented by Dr. John R. Christy, a climatologist from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. This talk contained his scientific evidence of normal cyclical climate change which is an attempt to challenge the current “gloom & doom” frenzy of so-called ‘Global Warming’ that is dominating the media right now. He began by offering a quote that says, ‘Some people will do anything to save the earth, except take a science course!’ He continued by pointing out that we simply cannot change climate and that many things we see occurring are consistent with the variations seen in world climate patterns when followed for extended periods of time. He posed the question then, ‘Why is climate alarmism succeeding?’ He then answered that it is the politicians, bureaucrats, celebrities and others with economic agendas that are using this hysteria to their advantage. His talk showed interesting climatic scientific evidence to oppose the idea of “global warming”; in addition, he showed much evidence of the importance of energy growth on improved quality of life, improved health, and longevity of life. He strongly supports proper stewardship of the earth and its resources. It was a valuable viewpoint to be exposed to for all of those in attendance.

Our next Forum Meeting will be September 9^th at 10:00-12:00PM at Bella Vida in North Salt Lake. The next Interim Session up at The Capitol is June 17^th, put that on your calendars so you can come up and watch. Have a great summer and we’ll see you in the fall. Be sure to visit www.unitedwomensforumblogspot.com and become a fan of our Forum on Facebook. It’s a great way to stay informed with important events that happen during the summer.

Salads

Eileen Gardner

Becky Nelson

Kris Kimball

UWF 2 Year Celebration April 8, 2009

United Women’s Forum

2 Year Birthday Celebration

April 8^th, 2009

On April 8, 2009, the United Women’s Forum celebrated its second birthday with a special General Meeting hosted at the Bella Vida Clubhouse, thanks to Steven Smoot, in North Salt Lake. Our out-going President, Debra Poulsen conducted the meeting. The prayer was offered by Diane Bachman, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance by Susie Heaton.

Debra Poulsen gave some remarks concerning the evolvement of the organization. She said that our logo of many different hands captured the essence of our organization as we bring women together to reach out in service. She reminded us of our organization’s 3-fold mission:

• To educate, motivate, and inspire
• To strengthen family, faith, and freedom
• To study the principles of our divinely inspired Founding Fathers—who did not invent these principles, but rather who loved and lived them

She said it is especially important in an increasingly Godless, secular world that people of faith need to stand firm in defending their values. She expressed gratitude for what she, and hopefully many of us, have learned and have pushed ourselves to become involved in. She also hopes that we can continue to support these precious and enduring principles.

Debra invited steering committee members to come forward and then thanked them for their service in their different responsibilities. She presented each woman with a small gift. She said that a healthy organization can and should move forward with new leadership; this will bring new enthusiasm, ideas, and creativity. She formally introduced our new president, Kris Kimball. Debra promised continued support and full confidence in Kris!

Kris Kimball then thanked Debra for her amazing contribution to this organization; indeed Debra’s initiative in seeing the need for a women’s forum as a new resident of Utah two years ago and being behind its original formation. Kris then introduced the new Steering Committee, which will be comprised of the following women:

Vice President Issues & Education: Diane Prince

Vice-President Speakers & Membership: Nancy Peterson

Secretary: Jennifer Bertin

Treasurer: Kaylma Rohrer

Publicist: Janet Seamons

Membership: Becky Nelson

Blog Assistant: Marge Clayton

Advisors: Laura Bunker, Dalane England and Debra Poulsen

Kris noted that as women, we are inherently drawn to the preservation of life and that when women are educated about and are armed with true principles, they can move forward in positive ways. She presented Debra with a beautiful basket of many different growing plants, which she said can represent the diversity of women in our organization.

Debra Poulsen introduced our host and special guest speaker, Mr. Steven Smoot. He is the president and founder of the Family First Foundation, which has helped address family policy in worldwide efforts. He is also the owner and manager of Eaglewood Development here in Utah. Mr. Smoot is the Executive Producer of the documentary that we viewed later called “Demographic Winter—the decline of the human family”.

He gave some brief remarks to preface the film by discussing declining birthrates in many countries throughout the world and the enormous effect that will have on their futures. He stressed how important it is to educate and inform people and governments on the need to view children as a blessing, and not a burden. He says that many view children as more “carbon footprints” to spoil the world. He citied a few examples of countries (that will be citied in the documentary) who have ignored their ‘human capital’; this in turn has led to serious economic and social decline. It is the hope of him and all those who have contributed to and collaborated on this film that they can educate many and hopefully stop these alarming and serious trends.

We viewed the film “Demographic Winter – the decline of the human family”.

Following that was a delicious lunch for all, provided by Linda Hess, salad; Ali Bell, salad; Paulette Bierwolf, salad; and Celestia Himstreet, rolls.

All attending could participate in a silent auction of items generously donated to benefit the United Women’s Forum. These included:

• Seth Thomas Clock by Janet Seamons
• Hampton Inn Hotel (coupon for one-night downtown SLC) by Kris Kimball
• Kathy Van Zeeland purse by Kris Kimball
• Mary Kay Gift Basket by Kris Kimball
• Hand-made Note Cards (4 sets) by Nancy Peterson
• Dinner coupons for Olive Garden by Debra Poulsen
• 1-hour Massage Coupon by Debra Poulsen
• Book, “The Divine Truth” by author Diane Prince
• Book, “What Men & Women Ought to Know about Each Other, by author Diane Prince
• Oil Painting by artist Anne Marie Oborn

There were also copies of the book, “The 5000 Year Leap” and the DVD of “Demographic Winter” available for purchase. A portion of those funds will also go to the forum.

Our next general meeting, the final one until September, will be held on May 13, 2009.

Prayer: Marcie Alley

Pledge: Jyl Marsden

MINUTES - March 11, 2009

Marge Clayton welcomed members of the forum at the Bountiful City Library at 10:15 am. the invocation was given by Marva Lyman and the pledge of Allegiance was led by Laurie Cutler.

Marge expressed gratitude for all of those attending and who have attended and are interested in a focus on the founding principles of our Constitution. Especially, in the troubled times we are living in, she said it is important to step up and take a stand on important matters. She referred to the book, "The 5000 Year Leap" by W. Cleon Skousen, from which we take our Principles of Freedom that are presented at our forum meetings. This book can greatly enhance our understanding of our country's founding principles and is available to anyone who does not yet have a copy.

The Principle of Freedom for this month was taught by Becky Nelson. The subject was "The Highest Level of Prosperity Occurs when there is a Free-market Economy and a Minimum of Government regulations." She began by reading us the 'Dedication' page at the front of the book which reminded us of our great Founding Fathers and the inspired Constitution they wrote. Today's principle deals with the creation of our free-market economy, its history and its contribution to the early prosperity of our country, in part due to a "minimum of governments regulations. She mentioned the 4 laws of Economic Freedom: to try, to buy, to sell, to fail. Then, in relating this principle to today's meeting topic, she taught us that one area of legitimate responsibility which belongs to government includes efforts to prevent "debauchery of the culteral standards and moral fiber of society by commercial exploitation of vice" which includes the distribution of pornography ---clearly a threat we are facing in our country today.

Marge Clayton thanked Becky and then asked us to think, 'What do I do now regarding this principle and how can I make a difference?' She also recognized a visitor, Fred Behrmann, whose specialty includes treating addiction with EFT. His pamphlets were available on the table for anyone interested.

Debra Poulsen gave us a report on the Legislature, shich is still in session. She also expressed appreciation for our inspired Founding Fathers. She then expressed enthusiastic and genuine thanks to many women of the forum who have become educated about and active in our state's legislative process. She is excited to see more women participating---some stepping out of their 'comfort zone'! She applauds women who have taken the initiative to get involved whether they attended meetings, testified to committees, wrote emails or called their Legislators. By raise of hand, many in attendance have been active in this cause! She specifically thanked Laura Bunker, Daland England and our President-elect Kris Kimball. It has made a difference for our forum to be recognized as a group who has had influence on pro0family issues. Some of the bills mentioned were: HB90, HB114, HB222, HB 353, HB 337, SB 187. You can visit the website: www.le.state.ut.us for details on these and other bills.

Diane Prince introduced our guest speaker, Mark Chamberlain, PhD. He is a Salt Lake City-based clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of sexual addiction. He is in private practice and the author of several books, including "Confronting Pornography."

Dr. Chamberlain began by telling of a very early introduction to the world of psychology. As a young boy he was part of a study by the well-known Victor B. Cline, PhD, that was looking at TV viewing and desensitization to violence, excitment, etc. He told us that his current work is primarily with individaul clients. He reference John Harmer and his work with the terrible effects of and addiction of pronography; he agrees with Mr. Harmer's views that the commercial exploitation of pornographic materials is one of the greatest threats to individuals and to our society as a whole. Dr. Chamberlain says people may have the view that his work is depressing; on the contrary he sees many of his clients enjoy a good outcome and being "freed" from this addiction of pornography.

Pornography is a huge problem in our society; from an economic standpoint, its income annually is over $80 billion, surpassing revenues of all professional sports and related businesses. Concerning the nature of the problem, he sited sudied done using rhesus monkeys that translate into comparable behavior in humans. Sexuality as a motivator is very strong; even stronger in males. Dr. Chamberlain also explained the role of emotions in those seeking pornography. Very stron human emotions including depression, anger, grustration, anxiety have been shown to be linked to compulsive behavior, such as involvement with pornography. Of course, expression of strong emotions in humans is natural in important, but must be redirected and not suppressed. He said often, if a person cannot talk it out, then sometimes they act it out in a less desirable way. He cited anonymous experiences and situations people he has treated to illustrate many of these points.

There were questions from the forum members throughout his remarks which he tried to answer. Many are concerned about family members, expecially children and grandchildren, and their exposure to this medium. Dr. Chamberlain encouraged us to pay attention to what our kids are doing on the computer and watch for changes in their behavior. Some behavioral changes he said to watch for include: DETACHMENT, MOODINESS, BEING IMPATIENT, BEING RECLUSIVE OR OVERLY JUDGEMENTAL. In addressing some of the concerns expressed, he said of great importance is an open communicative family environment. Young people who can talk to their parents, be involved in service, or who have a good spiritual support group, etc. can all help with prevention of pornography addiction.

Most importantly, he urged us to become educated and take time to warn and teach your family about pornography and what to do about it if they mistakenly come across it - before it happens to them.

To hear Dr. Chamberlain's complete talk you can click on the audio link here on our blog.

March 11, 2009 Forum Meeting with Dr. Mark Chamberlain

Click to download Dr. Mark Chamberlian's Forum Meeting Audio.
http://www.zshare.net/audio/57346659e678e49e/

Next Meeting March 11, 2009

United Women's Forum

Newsletter

March 2, 2009 Volume 14

MESSAGE FROM DEBRA POULSEN: I have had some “time out” with my computer because it has been down for a few weeks and so that is why you haven’t received a Newsletter for awhile. I’ve also experienced some “down time” with sickness and other concerns in my life. But as I have thought about the words: “time out” and “down time”, I have realized that it’s all ok. Especially in these times we really need to keep a healthy outlook about our circumstances and our experiences. If any of you have had some challenges that has slowed you down or necessitated some “time out, or down time”, I hope you will keep smiling and hang in there. Everything’s really ok. On morning wings how active springs the mind That leaves the load of yesterday behind! …..Alexander Pope

Next United Women's Forum Meeting will be April 8th! Come to our Birthday Celebration; our Forum is 2 years old!

10:00am-12:00pm at the Bella Vida Club House in North Salt Lake off of Eaglewood Dr.

You will have the opportunity to view a Demographic Winter produced by Steve Smoot, participate in a Silent Auction and enjoy a light lunch complete with Birthday Cake. We will be honoring past Board Members as well as introduce new Board Members for the 2009-2010 year.

Seating is limited so RSVP to Kris Kimball @ 801-299-9597 to reserve your spot

UWF Minutes 2-11-2009

Minutes February 11, 2009

Diane Prince welcomed the Forum at the Bountiful City Library at 10:15 am. Invocation was offered by Janet Seamons and Allie Bell led the Pledge of Allegiance.

This month’s Principle of Freedom was taught by Joan Heslop. The subject was “A Constitution Should be Structured to Protect the People from the Human Frailties of their Leaders.” Joan stated that “People in positions of trust must remain beyond reproach.” We were taught by our founders that leaders must have integrity and honesty rather than self interest and self advancement. The Constitution was designed to the control human frailties of our leaders.

President Debra Poulsen gave brief comments regarding the roles leaders. “Leaders” she stated, “need to be changed for good and fresh representation.” Deb announced our new President Elect – Kris Kimball who will take over UWF responsibilities at our April Forum meeting. The April meeting will be held at the Bella Vida Clubhouse in Eaglewood, North Salt Lake. Our host and speaker at the April birthday celebration will be Steve Smoot and we will view a short movie called Demographic Winner. Deb also invited all to attend a press conference at the Utah State Capitol today at 1:00 pm regarding the “Common Values Initiative” which is an initiative to maintain family values and traditional marriage in our state.

Kris Kimball invited us to each send pictures to Glen Beck if we agree with 7 of his 9 principles that she was passing around on a clipboard. The pictures will be shown on the Glen Beck show on Fox at the end of the month and it is designed to be like a petition of support for conservative values.

Southerland Institute just announced and kicked off their “Sacred Ground Initiative” which was designed to strengthen the traditional family.

Linda Hess told us about two new House Bills (160 and 267) involving inheritance taxes, housing and employment and invited us to attend any committee meetings or sessions that we could while the legislature is in session.

Linda Bunker introduced our guest speaker Jeff Novak, President CEAG Utah (Coalition for Ethics and Accountability in Government).

Jeff began his remarks telling us that “we are sovereign individuals with rights granted by God. We have certain things in common to protect and support each other from our enemies. We started out as a confederacy but when there were too many of us, the Confederate form of government was not sufficient and we then moved to a Constitution instead where individuals would participate (invest) in laws that would be difficult to change. For protection of the laws and the people, we formed the Executive, Legislative and Judicial branch of government.”

Our founding fathers were concerned that we have virtuous leaders and they established 4 Pillars of Conduct which were the essence of character.

The 4 Pillars are:

1) Private Virtue (personal moral code); applying morality to daily governance.

2) Public Virtue (desire for the good of others); personal values are transferred to sacrifice for the good of all; foster success of others; philanthropy.

3) Classical Education (broad thought regarding concepts, principles and philosophies); requirement to learn languages.

4) Auxiliary Forms of Government (separation of powers, written constitution); elections; Electoral College). The Founders wanted the constitution to be structured to be a protection against the human frailties of greed, power and temptations of leaders.

“We have protections to help us guard against corruption in government” noted Jeff. “They are: Impeachment, right to vote and getting involved in the political process.” Jeff said that “we are the power behind government and the failure in our leaders lies in our own frailties to engage. We have to shift our paradigm from the notion that people exist because of government to: government exists because of people.”

Jeff’s organization CEAG is set up to encourage ethics in government. “We all have the right to be heard and to be treated properly.” There are several bills before the legislature now promoting ethics in government. To manage this properly, Jeff encouraged appointments to an ethics commission from each branch of government.

A light lunch was served and the meeting was adjourned till March11, 2009.