Friday, September 26, 2008

October 8, 2008 "Protecting the Role of the Family"

JoAnn Hibbert Hamilton is a strong family advocate and she has worked tirelessly to protect families by helping community governments establish child-appropriate standards in Utah and across the U.S. so that the "harmful to minors" law can be enforced. As Founder and Director of Citizens for Families, with a membership of 4,000 families, her ideas on protecting the family have been aired on Canadian talk shows and the BYU Worldwide Education Week Broadcast. She feels one of her most important accomplishments is getting the White Ribbon Week program, which educates students against pornography, into our public schools. She has published three books, twelve CDs and has a website, www.strengthenthefamily.net. She also writes a column, A Minute For Parents, for the Davis County Clipper and a California newspaper. She has a large family and has served as the wife of a mission president for the LDS church.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

"Patriots and Petticoats" September 10, 2008


Minutes of United Women’s Forum General Meeting

September 10, 2008 at the Bountiful City Library

Diane Prince welcomed those in attendance; the prayer was given by April Hatch. Dalane England led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Paulette Bierwolf taught us “A Principle of Freedom” with today’s topic as The Importance of an Educated Electorate. She told us a personal experience she had as a child of thinking the world was flat and the difficulty she had of being educated otherwise. After finally accepting that it opened up a whole new way of thinking about things! She then told us how our Founding Fathers knew that if the populace was educated, they would choose better leaders. She continued by pointing out that one way a dictator retains power is by controlling what people read and are taught. Therefore we must always remember that education is vital to the preservation of freedom. She urged us to be educated in everything possible.

Debra Poulsen referred to the handout given to all the women of internet sites which will help us be knowledgeable and informed and that are important tools for us in our fight for what we believe in. She told how she has become familiar with them and urged us to do the same; each of us should be able to find some way to participate.

Dalane England reminded us of September 17th being the day that our Constitution was signed. She said that it is essential that as citizens that we know and understand it so that we make sure our leaders are held accountable. It is even more of a concern that it is taught to our children. The schools are mandated to teach it between Sept. 17 & 23. She made a plea for help in making sure this is happening in the schools—asking for volunteers for this year and next.

Linda Hess updated us on Proposition 8 in California (the marriage amendment). She said it is vital that we do everything to make sure this passes there as it will impact every other state. She cited many implications of things that could happen if this fails to pass. Handouts were given to the women to fill out and return to the ‘marriage protection’ groups in California.

Finally we were treated to vignettes from “Patriots in Petticoats” by Jaynann M. Payne and her daughter Nancy Herrera. This play was written by Mrs. Payne, who has many credentials of family-related service throughout the years, as well as being the mother of 12. This play was performed at the Colonial Days Celebration on July 2, 3, 4, and 5, 2008 at the Crandall Historical Museum in Provo, Utah. It brings to life the exciting experiences of women who played vital roles in the American Revolution. We enjoyed the presentation of these women who are so passionate about the role we have in this time that we are alive. They thanked us for attending today and being part of this forum and urged us to contribute now just as these colonial women who left such a valuable legacy from the past.

UWF Meeting 9-10-2008 Slide Show

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Mark your Calendar! September 10, 2008 United Forum Meeting 10:15 a.m. Bountiful Library

"The Importance of an Educated Electorate" Jaynann M. Payne and her daughter, Nancy Herrera will be performing a few scenes from "Patriots in Petticoats,"a play that brings to life the exciting adventures of the intrepid 1776 women of the American Revolution. Some women fought the war with their pen, other actually took up arms, but all dreamed the seemingly impossible dream of freedom and independence. Written by Jaynann Payne, the cast of 2 women performed at the Colonial Days 4th of July Celebration in Provo. Nancy is a talented musician and mother of 5 sons. Jaynann is the mother of 12 children, 71 grandchildren and 40 great grandchildren. Jaynann served as the National Director of the Center for Family Studies of the Freemen Institute for 4 years. In 1977, she was a Utah Delegate to the International Women's Year Conference.
We look forward to seeing you there!

United Women's Forum

UNITED WOMEN'S FORUM by Diane Prince
I was intrigued last summer when a small booklet was handed to me, and an invitation was given by a friend to attend a group called the "United Women's Forum." Like many women, my time seemed to be so busy that I wasn't sure how I could possibly fit one more thing into my already over scheduled life. I decided to peruse the booklet, and to my surprise, found that I was immediately impressed with the mission statement of this group. Further, I wanted to show respect to my friend, and so I decided to attend a meeting. All I can say is "wow," am I glad that I did. It definitely exceeded my expectations and has become something that I look forward to each month.
The United Women's Forum is made up of women primarily from Davis County who care about our community, state and country and want to be informed about what is happening in our government. This is an organization of women who are moral and have a firm faith in Jesus Christ and believe that it is His right to rule in the affairs of men. In the forum, not only do we learn what is currently going on in government by those who have taken the time to be informed, but in the process we are given ideas of even small ways that we can make a difference. As an added bonus, each month a dynamic speaker is invited. We have been enlightened by such speakers as; Congressman Bishop (United States Congress), Stephen Studdert (former senior White House Advisor to three U.S. Presidents), Dan Jones (popular pollster) Judge David Sam (Senior Judge of the District of Utah for the United States District Court), Ardeth Kapp (former LDS Church Young Women's President) Jill Stevens (Miss Utah who has been serving in the Utah National Guard and was stationed in Afghanistan), and others. One of the things I have really enjoyed is the opportunity for questions and answers with our guest speaker at the end of their talk. We have truly been taught. Each meeting has been most interest and informative.
As well as being enlightened, I think one of the things that has impressed me the most at the United Women's Forum is the caliber of women who attend. I have loved getting to know many of these women. It has been pleasing to see that in spite of their busy lives, they have made it a priority to take this 1 1/2 hours a month to be informed and where possible to make their voices heard.
The United Women's Forum is open to anyone who would like to attend. You will find it is very much, worth the time.

Monday, May 26, 2008

UWF Meeting May 14, 2008 The Honorable Judge David Sam

United Women’s Forum Minutes – May, 2008


The United Women Forum convened their monthly meeting on Wednesday, May 14, 2008, at the Bountiful City Library at 10:15 am. Debra Poulsen welcomed everyone new guests to the meeting. Opening prayer was offered by Kris Kimball and Teresa Crapo led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Debra announced that the Davis County Republican Women have scheduled a pre-Primary Election debate on June 3, 2008, at Bountiful City Hall. The public is invited to attend to hear the candidates. The Primary election will be held on June 24.

Barbara Derricott was introduced to present to the forum, the role of religion in a free society. Barbara is a wife, mother and devoted member of our community who has volunteered in schools in Bountiful for many years. She and her family lived for several years in Japan but she loves America and is very patriotic.

Barbara taught that a government of free people, without religion cannot be maintained – principle #4 from the book: A Miracle That Changed the World – the 5000 Year Leap. “Our founders” she stated, “felt that the role of religion would be as important in our day as it was in theirs.”

The Northwest Ordinance, written in 1787, the same year as the Constitution, emphasized the essential need to teach religion and morality in the schools. Article 3 states: “Religion, morality and knowledge being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged.”

National morality can prevail and virtue is a necessity in government. Ben Franklin summarized five fundamental points that were to be taught in schools. They are:

1. There is a Creator who made all things and mankind should recognize and worship Him.
2. The Creator has revealed a moral code of behavior for happy living which distinguishes right from wrong.
3. The Creator holds mankind responsible for the way they treat each other.
4. All mankind live beyond this life.
5. In the next life, mankind is judged for their conduct in this one.

In America, we sometimes put religious traits behind issues of government.
In the 1700-1800’s, the clergy were anxious to maintain separation of church and state but they had great influence on the morals and customs of public life. They did not want religion to become involved in partisan politics but believed that it was their duty to keep a message of religious principles and moral values flowing to the people to safeguard America.

The First Amendment provides that “Congress shall make NO law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” The First Amendment was designed to eliminate the interference of the federal government in any religious matters with the states. The federal judicial system was also prohibited from intermeddling with religious matters within the states.

Jefferson and Madison were anxious that states intervene in religious matters so that all religions would be treated equally. In recent years, the U.S. Supreme Court has taken an extremely inflexible and rigid position regarding the state governments and religion which creates tension and litigation throughout the land. Non religious people litigate any matter where they feel there is mention of anything religious – such as display of the 10 Commandments in a federal building or having a Christian display at Christmas time in a public park.

As citizens, we need to study the Constitution and understand our rights as citizens, stand up for them and elect representatives who also support the Constitution.

Diane Prince reminded us about an organization called: Write Your Congressman where we can send opinion ballots to our Congressmen regarding our feelings about any issue in congress. She said that our representatives will listen to our opinions and sincerely desire to represent their constituency. We can get these opinion ballots monthly and can get more information on their website.

Debra announced that the Bountiful recycling program will be held on Tuesday, May 27th at 7:00 pm at the City Hall – for any who wish to attend.

Adrienne Buckley told us about the Barnes and Noble issue re: decency in displaying literature. She said that the B&N response to our many letters was that there are no enforceable laws and the store is in compliance with the law. She was appreciative of the huge amount of support from the community on this issue and she felt that it was somewhat effective. Adrienne said that there will be a Summit Meeting for the Community on Decency at BYU on May 31st. She suggested carpooling for any who might want to attend that meeting.

Dalane England urged us to support the effort to inform public schools about Constitution Day (week) - September 17th – 23rd. This week is set aside to teach the Constitution in the schools. She said that there is a lot of information already out there to use but she wants to make sure that this program in implemented in the schools this year. Contact Dalane, Deborah Poulsen or Kaylma Rohwer if interested.

Laura Bunker needs a committee of volunteers to help with a fall event for United Families Utah. She will welcome your help. Laura also told us of the recent variance which El Matador restaurant was given to allow the sale of beer at their restaurant. The city council voted 3/2 to grant the variance and it was determined that this vote was not an oversite by the council but a pre-arranged deal when urging the El Matador to relocate. Promises were made to them to help them get the variance. She urged us to start a Bountiful citizens group, run for city council and mayor offices.

Linda Hess told us that McDonalds recently donated $20,000 to gay rights. While only about 2.9% of the population is gay/lesbian, they have a huge voice because they are funded by large organizations such as McDonalds and Ford Motor Co. Some of these organizations just want to be politically correct – as do our politicians and they are always in the spotlight. She urged us to contact our representatives to vote AGAINST ENDA which is supposed to be a non-discrimination bill but actually does discriminate against the rights of some to choose to hire homosexuals, have them as scout leaders and so forth. Gays have no tolerance for Christians but expect tolerance from themselves.

Our guest speaker was introduced by Marva Lyman. The Honorable David Sam was our speaker today. Judge Sam is from Indiana. He was born of Romanian immigrant parents. He received degrees from BYU and U of U. Judge Sam served in the US Air Force where he was a Captain. He lived and practiced law in Duchene County. He was also a County attorney there. He has served on many boards and as a bishop, stake president and mission president for his church. In 1985, he was appointed US District Judge of the 4th District, by President Ronald Regan. Marva stated that she honors him as a good neighbor and friend most of all. “He is a charitable, good man.”

Judge Sam expressed that he felt it an honor to be in this group and he complimented us for our interest in the Constitution. He stated “I am your humble servant” and we felt that from his remarks. He told us that it is so important for each of us to be a good citizen. He spoke fondly of his wife Bennie, who was named after her father who was killed as an American hero in WWII. He also stated that his 3 brothers felt that it was such an honor for them to serve their country in the military. He said “A few people make things happen; a lot of people watch things happen and the overwhelming majority of people do nothing.”

Judge Sam felt that it was a miracle for his family to get out of Romania. His family had the gift of life in Romania but they found the gift of freedom in America. Freedom is not free. It requires something of all people who benefit from it. He told us of a case he had involving the American Atheist Society of America. They were suing the state of Utah for erecting crosses at the location where highway patrolmen lost their lives in the line of duty. The AAS stated that it was a violation of the 1st Amendment and that the government cannot get involved in religious symbols. Judge Sam researched the case and discovered that in the early 70’s, the Lennon case made a decision on symbols. He determined that the law had been defined by the Supreme Court which stated that the government does not violate if secular purposes do not advance religious purposes. Erecting the crosses does not cross that line.

Judge Sam stated that we are the watchdog at the grass roots level. We need to make sure our voices are heard. Our founders put power in the federal judiciary based on righteous principles. He issued an invitation for us to visit his chambers. It was a privilege to listen to his good man.

UWF was encouraged to attend the legislature meeting held on the 3rd Wednesday of June and July. We need to all help shape the laws for our next legislative session.