Zonta International District 17
Transcription
Zonta International District 17
Biennium 2012-2014 www.zontad17.org ZONTA NewsLetter-COVER-AW2.indd 2-3 ento r REINV EN E ENC ER •W e co •W ntribute em International, District 17 ON HE Z TA DIF T F T re We ca onta Z Governor’s Newsletter Issue 1–November 2012 REINVENT THE ZONTA DIFFERENCE We care • We contribute • We mentor 2012/11/16 10:44:52 AM Governor’s Newsletter Issue 1 – November 2012 Content 11 REINV EN E ENC ER re We ca ento r ON HE Z TA DIF T F T em 06 •W e co •W ntribute Governor’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 02 Meet the Governor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 04 District Biennium Goals 2012-2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06 Officers and Board of Directors 2012-2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07 District 17 Committee Chairs 2012-2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 61st Zonta International Convention in Torino, Italy . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Introducing our International Board Liaison Officer Anita Schnetzer-Spranger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Official Visits by District Governor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Training for Incoming Board of District 17 in May 2012 . . . . . . . . . . 15 Training for Club Officers, Area 1-6, District 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 A Club is Born . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 In Search of Good News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 UNITE : Stop Domestic Violence NOW ! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 A Better World for Women . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 ZI District 17 and United Nations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 List of District 17 Presidents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Area Reports Area 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Area 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Area 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 15 Area 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Area 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Area 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Invitation to the 17th District Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Photo Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 The Zonta Governor’s Newsletter is the official publication of Zonta International District 17. It contains articles on the programs and activities of the District 17, the area, and the clubs comprising the district. The Newsletter has also been uploaded on the District 17 website www.zontad17.org Editor : Margaret Chan & District 17 Editorial Team DG Winnie with her immediate family Standing (R to L): Son Rodney with wife Stephanie. Eldest son Dr. Anthony Teoh. Son Dr. Jeremy with fiance Dr. Nikki Far Seated (R to L): Dr. Timothy S. C. Teoh with DG Winnie. Grandson Shawn with daughter-in-law Yvonne For this biennium, the District 17 Biennial Goals is “Reinvent the Zonta Difference: We Care • We Contribute • We Mentor”. 2 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r Governor’s Message To be the District Governor for District 17 is both an honour & privilege, and with that comes the responsibility & commitment. I look forward to the challenges ahead and the opportunity of working with all of you to further the vision of both Zonta International as well as District 17. For this biennium, the District 17 Biennial Goals is “Reinvent the Zonta Difference: We Care • We Contribute • We Mentor”. The Biennial Goals embrace our desire to care for women empowerment, contribute to the community by gaining mileage in credibility & visibility, and mentor new clubs & creating a fulfilling Zonta way of life for both new and existing members. Zonta is all about giving our time, talents, and resources for the betterment of others, especially to women. We provide for those in need, expecting nothing in return. However, deep in our heart, the thought of self gratification, the thought that we have led a truly meaningful life, is something beyond compare! The organization of quality advocacy & service projects is part of our integrated approach of creating the ZONTA DIFFERENCE. Throughout my 30 years in Zonta, I have seen many selfless Zontians who are passionate in achieving the Zonta Difference. There are Zontians who simply forget their own time schedule when they raise funds to support a project, endure heat & discomfort when distributing relief goods to disaster victims, rub shoulders with women inmates to ensure they learn new skills whilst in prison, or shed tears of sympathy amidst counseling sessions for victims of domestic violence. Indeed, Zontians are unique caring individuals of the community. My dear fellow Zontians, you earn my highest salute because you are the everyday heroines of our society! As part of this important objective of organizing quality advocacy project, District 17 is organizing one of the first ever Advocacy Forum in Manila on 24 November, focusing on ‘UNITE: Stop Domestic Violence NOW!’ The date is chosen to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women & to start off the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence. Four quality speakers have been invited from Hong Kong, Philippines, & Thailand. We are anticipating over 200 participants and I look forward to meeting you personally on that day! The achievement of credibility & visibility is also part of our integrated approach in creating the ZONTA DIFFERENCE. In the span of the few months after I have assumed office, we have already launched the ambitious Club Page project. As much as 79% of the 72 Clubs within District 17 do not maintain a website. To help Zonta Clubs to achieve visibility, our IT Development team has created Club Template that includes headings that each individual Club can complete. After completion, D17 can help you to upload this information, as part of the D17 Website, on a complimentary basis. For the Zonta Clubs that have a website already, we will provide a linkage for your website to be connected to the D17 Website. We hope that through this project, all Zonta Clubs will join us in achieving a good visibility on the internet. The Zonta story can then be told 24/7 and without any limitation on geographical boundaries. With new communication media developing all around us, we just have to go forward and embrace new technology. The integrated approach also places emphasis on recruitment & retention of members, as well as SOMING of new clubs. Every Zontian is important to us in creating vibrant club dynamics. We must give members the opportunities to showcase their talents, enhance their capabilities in project works, and develop the bonding and fellowship so that there is a good allegiance to the ZONTA spirit. SOMING of new clubs is an important strategy in achieving good membership numbers. With Asia as a growing economy; there are still good opportunities for SOMING of clubs in new territories. Last but not least, please join us in implementing good governance for your Club. We must maintain our momentum in submitting nominations for the YWPA, Jane Klausman and Emma Colon Awards. In addition, the ZIF pins for this biennium are very attractive. The production will be completed in December. But of course, you can make a pledge for it anytime. Please try your utmost to maintain the 100% Club donation to the Zonta International Foundation. It is a great symbol of our unity of strength! During the Zonta International Convention, I was presented with a Zonta clock. Indeed, the clock Each biennium, the group of DGs would select a name that best represent themselves. For biennium 20122014, the DGs have chosen GEMsGovernors for Women Empowerment. DG Winnie has helped to design a GEM pin for the group and is presenting this pin to IP Lynn Mckenzie. is ticking. We need to utilize the duration of this biennium to work enthusiastically for Zonta. As our International President Lynn McKenzie says,” The more we can give, the more we can help women: our sisters, mothers, and daughters who are less fortunate than us…. Regarding the journey ahead, take heart. We are all in the same waka -the same boat- paddling towards an exciting future. If we paddle as one, we will arrive in Orlando in 2014 as a 21st century organization looking fearlessly to the 22nd century.” In Zonta We Serve, Winnie Teoh District Governor 2012-2014 District 17, Zonta International Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 3 In all her Zonta positions, Winnie has executed her duties diligently & effectively. I found Winnie to be an excellent speaker with good communication skills. She is also a good organizer with creative leadership abilities. 4 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r Winnie is not Meet the Governor Winnie Teoh By The Hon Miriam Kin Yee LAU, GBS, OBE, JP Past President, Zonta Club of Kowloon Past Area 2 Director, District 17, Zonta International As a founding member & Past President of Zonta Club of Kowloon for 1980-1981, I have known Winnie since she became our member in 1982. She was then a bustling young senior executive, anxious to contribute to society, and looking for a meaningful cause to follow. On knowing about her, I learnt that she was born and raised in Hong Kong, and graduated from the University of Hong Kong in 1972. I remembered asking her what motivated her to be a Zontian. Her reply was, “Having travelled extensively, I have witnessed many inequalities. I would like to use my experience to contribute to the less fortunate in our society, especially the girls and women who encounter problems when growing up and battling for a good job! ” Indeed, with this goal in mind, Winnie had worked tirelessly for the past 30 years. Her extensive portfolio of achievements had enabled her to be elected as our District Governor for this biennium. It is common knowledge that Winnie has grown from the ranks of being the President of the Zonta Club of Kowloon in 1990-1991, Area Director in 2006-2008, Lieutenant Governor in 2010-2012, and now District Governor in 2012-2014. I am particularly impressed by Winnie’s commitment to Zonta and all the causes that Zonta stands for. I recall that I once met Winnie in the Hong Kong Legislative Council. The Zonta Clubs in Hong Kong had submitted their views on the Domestic Violence Bill 2007, and Winnie specially attended before the relevant Bills Committee of the Legislative Council to present and elaborate on those views. Indeed, Winnie’s performance on that occasion content with routine performance. She always tries to organize projects with a new perspective and perform creatively. was exemplary. In all her Zonta positions, Winnie has executed her duties diligently & effectively. I found Winnie to be an excellent speaker with good communication skills. She is also a good organizer with creative leadership abilities. Winnie was instrumental to the chartering of the Zonta Club of Kuala Lumpur in July, 2011. In her career, Winnie has worked for many years at the Hong Kong Tourist Association (now renamed Hong Kong Tourism Board). I remember her as an extremely busy person – Monday in Germany and Friday in the USA, but she managed her schedules perfectly. In her job as Senior Marketing Manager, she had to travel to the 19 overseas offices and organized many travel missions, mega marketing projects across national boundaries and other trade & consumer promotions. Winnie is married to Dr. Timothy S.C. Teoh, an urologist surgeon by profession. Dr. Teoh supports Zonta tremendously and is absolutely devoted to Winnie. I meet him as often as I meet Winnie. In fact, I think Winnie must be somewhat inspired by her civic minded husband. Dr. Teoh previously held many positions: President of the British Medical Association (HK Branch), District Governor of the Lions clubs International District 303, Chairman of Stewards (HK) Ltd which is a Christian charitable organization, and Chairperson of the 34th OSEAL (Orient & South East Asian Lions Forum) . Dr. Teoh is also instrumental in establishing the largest charitable haemodialysis centre in Hong Kong in his capacity as founding Chairman of Lions Educational Centre & Research Foundation. Winnie and Dr. Teoh have three sons. There was a period when Winnie had to commute between Hong Kong & Sydney as some of the children were receiving university education in Australia. Winnie took on an overseas secondment with the Hong Kong Tourism Board. This enabled her to continue working whilst keeping an eye on the children. In this regard, Winnie said, “It is important that I keep the balance between my career and my family life. I would like to be a good mother, a good wife, and to have a rewarding career at the same time.” Her efforts paid off. Her sons have all become professionals, being either solicitor or surgeons. Dr. & Mrs. Teoh have a one and a half years old grandson. As a person, Winnie is not content with routine performance. She always tries to organize projects with a new perspective and perform creatively. It is no wonder that already in the few months, she has conducted the first District Governor visit to the Zonta Club of Phitsanulok in northern Thailand, organizing one of the first ever District Advocacy Forum, and launched the ambitious Club Page project for District 17. With her creativity, I have no doubt that she will continue to lead with inspiration, benefitting the many Zonta Clubs and Zontians in the District. My whole hearted support to Winnie and my best wishes to her for all the successful achievements during this Biennium, Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 5 We Care ▪ We Contribute ▪ We Mentor By Winnie Teoh │ District Governor 2012-2014, District 17, Zonta International ento r re We ca Reinvent the Zonta Difference Officers and Board of Directors 2012-2014 •W e co •W ntribute em Biennial Goals for 2012-2014 E ENC ER REINV EN ON HE Z TA DIF F TT Winnie Teoh Lalivan Karnchanachari Primitiva Perez-Sison Olivia A. Ferry Margaret Chan Teresa Lin Daisy P. Arce Ophelia Flores Linda Wang Ana Isabel V. Johnston Dr. Anita Y. Sanchez Dr. Palarp Sinhaseni Governor We need to ‘Reinvent the Zonta Difference’ by completing more service & advocacy projects of a high quality. In addition, we need to bring these to the recognition in our communities. By focusing on CREDIBILITY and VISIBILITY, we can expect more women to be aware of the ZONTA difference, be encouraged to join our membership and STAY in our membership. By the end of the biennium, we hope to establish ZONTA as the ORGANISATION OF CHOICE for more volunteers in our territories. We Care for Women Empowerment We must organize Women Empowerment projects for as many segments of underprivileged women as possible. The objective is to empower these women with skills, and improve their health and wellness so that they can lead a better quality of life. Through advocacy projects, we must focus on issues that can advance women’s legal, political, economic, educational, health and professional status. We must also support the activities of ZISVAW & CEDAW projects. We contribute to our Community( Creditability & Visibility) We must also bring our contribution to the notice of our stakeholders, using existing and new communication media. For this biennium, it is suggested 6 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r all Zonta Clubs under District 17 develop their own websites or Club web pages, if they have not done so already. These websites/club web pages would include certain essential ingredients: objectives of ZONTA, a history of the club, a summary of the charitable projects that the club has organized over the years and an invitation for our peers to join us. This will enable the Zonta story to be told to as wide an audience as possible. For Clubs that have their Websites already, they can be encouraged to expand on the components of their websites and new features and linkages can be included. Coverage on Club activities in traditional media is also valuable. Share your success stories in local media: newspapers, magazines, radio or TV will help to enhance the visibility of ZONTA. We Mentor New and Existing Clubs /Members The vigorous effort to recruit additional members and SOM new clubs will be continued. It is hoped that each Area can SOM at least one new club during the next biennium.The targeted % for membership growth for 20122014 will be established at 8%. Each Zontian is important to us. We must generate the loyalty, the fellowship, and the fulfillment for Zonta identity.The existing Loyalty Pin system will be revived. Each Area is suggested to hold a Loyalty Pin presentation at least once in the biennium. The cultural exchange between Golden Z and Z Clubs within the different geographical areas of District 17 will be encouraged. Training seminars, joint activities, twinning between clubs can be looked at. There also exists the possibility of establishing new Golden Z or Z Clubs during the next biennium. Governance (We contribute) • An effective governance of the Board, with good accountability and sound stewardship of the organization’s resources, is to be established at the District, Area and Club level. • We must maintain our momentum in submitting nominations for both the Young Women in Public Affairs Award, Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship and Emma L. Colon Awards. • Zonta International Foundation: Similar to past years, ZIF pins will be produced for different categories of donations. The target for the Foundation Ambassadors for this biennium would be a 10% increase over the actual amount in the last biennium. District 17 MUST continue to maintain the 100% club contribution for this biennium. Treasurer Secretary Area 1 Director Area 2 Director The District Board Area 3 Director Lieutenant Governor Parliamentarian Secretary Area 4 Director Area 5 Director Area 6 Director Seated from left: Teresa Lin, Secretary; Primitiva PerezSison, Treasurer; Olivia A. Ferry, Parliamentarian; Winnie Teoh, Governor; Lalivan Karnchanachari, Lt. Governor; Margaret Chan, Secretary. Vice Area Directors Ma. Theresa Dumrique-Abuel Atty. Mila Catabay-Lauigan Standing from left : Dr. Palarp Sinhaseni, Area 6 Director; Ana Isabel V. Johnston, Area 5 Director; Ophelia Flores, Area 4 Director; Dr. Anita Y. Sanchez, Area 3 Director; Linda Wang, Area 2 Director; Daisy P. Arce, Area 1 Director. Winnie Wong Claudette Mendiola-Cruz Dr. Esperanza N. Dacudao Vichittra Aramwattananont Area 1 Vice Director Area 2 Vice Director Area 3 Vice Director Area 4 Vice Director Area 5 Vice Director Area 6 Vice Director Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 7 TECHNICAL COMMITTEES District 17 Committee Chairs 2012-2014 Bylaws & Resolutions Chair Member Member Presiding Officer Conference Chair Conference Treasurer Membership Lalivan Karnchanachari Lolita Sy Anna Kwong Stella Bernabe Lily Passion Cynthia Reyes Monvibha Prachankhadee ZC Bangkok I,A6 Zc Greater Rizal II,A1 ZC Kowloon, A2 ZC Cebu I, A3 ZC Ilocos Norte,A4 ZC Makati Ayala,A5 ZC Bangkok I, A6 Angelina Lopez Carmencita Roman Wee Wan Joo Marilou Canizares Edith Medina Estelita Bunge Chantana Chanbanchong ZC Makati & Environs, A5 ZC De Valle Verde,A1 ZC Singapore,A2 ZC Cebu II ,A3 ZC Ilocos Norte,A4 ZC Alabang, A5 ZC Phitsanulok,A6 Marilyn Alentajan Marie Rose Ancheta Thelma Tong Mafelou Agriam Mary Jane Ortega Josefa Mariza Belmonte Sirikanang Chaiyasuta ZC Valle Verde, A1 ZC Mandaluyong San Juan II,A1 ZC Hong Kong, A2 ZC Iloilo City II,A3 ZC La Union-San Fernando, A4 ZC Naga & Camarines Sur,A5 ZC Bangkok VI, A6 Mitzi Piad Mercedes Ong Tina Kwan Aida Ramos Sonia Tiong-Aquino ZC Lucena & Environs,A5 ZC Marikina, A1 ZC New Territories, A2 ZC Aparri, A4 ZC Fort Bonifacio,A5 Service Chair Vice Chair Area 1 Vice Chair Area 2 Vice Chair Area 3 Vice Chair Area 4 Vice Chair Area 5 Vice Chair Area 6 Advocacy Chair Vice Chair Area 1 Vice Chair Area 2 Vice Chair Area 3 Vice Chair Area 4 Vice Chair Area 5 Vice Chair Area 6 United Nations Chair Member Member Member Member Public Relations and Communications Chair Member Member Member Marily Orosa Margaret Chan Carmela Alviar Theresa D. Klepp ZC Makati Ayala,A5 ZC New Territories,A2 ZC Edsa & Its Environs,A1 ZC Cebu II,A3 Lia Bautista Vicky Coralejo Vivian Sun Ofelia Servando Norma Arellano Rainelda Andrews Vanida Tulalamba ZC Greater Rizal 1,A1 ZC Greater Rizal I ,A1 ZC Hong Kong East, A2 ZC Bacolod City, A3 ZC Aparri, A4 ZC Makati Ayala, A5 ZC Bangkok II, A6 Z Clubs and Golden Z Clubs Chair Vice Chair Area 1 Vice Chair Area 2 Vice Chair Area 3 Vice Chair Area 4 Vice Chair Area 5 Vice Chair Area 6 Young Women in Public Affairs Awards (YWPA) Chair Vice Chair Member Diana Wong Divina Lupe Mendoza Lazaro Ratanaporn Vatanasapt ZC Hong Kong East, A2 ZC Greater Rizal II, A1 ZC Khonkaen,A6 Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarships Chair Vice Chairman Member Naphaphen Vejjajiva Paula Ho Adela Sy ZC Bangkok V,A6 ZC Victoria,A2 ZC Manila II,A1 Amelia Earhart Chair Vice Chairman Member 8 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r ZC Mandaluyong San Juan, A1 ZC Manila I,A1 ZC Makati & Environs,A5 Winnie Teoh Margaret Leung Lucy Wong ZC Kowloon, A2 ZC Hong Kong East, A2 ZC Hong Kong East, A2 Flerida Jimenez Frances Monje Primitiva Perez Sison Winnie Teoh ZC Metropolitan Pasig, A5 ZC Pasig Foundation, A5 ZC Manila, A1 ZC Kowloon, A2 Lourdes Almeda Sese Patricia Lagunda Emme Li Petite Garcia Raquel Arnedo Claudette Cruz Tharinee Tavijaroen ZC Laguna A5 ZC Baliuag,A1 ZC Kowloon,A2 ZC Cebu II,A3 ZC Central Tuguegarao, A4 ZC Laguna,A5 ZC Bangkok II,A6 Regina Padilla Geraldez Elena Chiongbian-Young Kulchalee Sermatavisubya ZC Manila I, A1 ZC Cebu II,A3 ZC Bangkok VIII,A6 District Conference 2013 PROGRAM COMMITTEES Chair Vice Chair Area 1 Vice Chair Area 2 Vice Chair Area 3 Vice Chair Area 4 Vice Chair Area 5 Vice Chair Area 6 Susan Jacinto Diana Franco Olivia Ferry Finance Chair Member Member Ex-Officio IT Development Chair Vice Chair Area 1 Vice Chair Area 2 Vice Chair Area 3 Vice Chair Area 4 Vice Chair Area 5 Vice Chair Area 6 NOMINATING COMMITTEE Chair Member Member FOUNDATION AMBASSADORS Coordinator Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6 ZC Quezon City,A1 ZC Ilocos Norte,A4 ZC Bangkok V,A6 ZC Makati & Environs,A5 ZC Greater Rizal I ,A1 ZC Hong Kong East,A2 ZC Cebu II,A3 ZC Baguio,A4 ZC Fort Bonifacio,A5 ZC Bangkok III,A6 Virma Vergel de Dios Imedla Gomez Kathleen Yip Narudee Kiengsiri ZC Mandaluyong-San Juan,A1 ZC Greater Rizal I ,A1 ZC Hongkong ,A2 ZC Bangkok II,A6 Olivia Ferry ZC Makati & Environs,A5 Kathleeen Yip ZC Hong Kong,A2 Teresa Lin Lourdes Almeda Sese ZC New Territories,A2 ZC Laguna, A5 CENTURIONS PARLIAMENTARIAN AWARDS COMMITTEE Chair DISTRICT 17 WEBSITE Editor Club Pages GOVERNOR’S NEWSLETTER Editor Margaret Chan ZC New Territories,A2 Linda Pandillo ZC Makati & Environs,A5 DISTRICT HISTORIAN Chairman Rosario Ventura Mary Ang Rattana Wonglertwit Georgitta Pimentel-Puyat Aleli Sevilla Mildred Law Florencia T. Miel Angelita G. Meneses Patria Patty Chiong Panida Pathumarak Updated 20/10/12 Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 9 61st Zonta International Convention in Torino, Italy By Teresa Lin │ District Secretary The Zonta International 61st Convention was held from 7th to 12th July 2012. This time it was held in Torino, Italy. Torino is a city of history and culture dated back to Highlanders and Roman times. It was the capital of Italy in 1861-1865 before moving the capital to Florence and Torino is also the home to FIAT Auto. Zontians from Area 2 District 17 arrived on 5 and 6 July at Hotel NH Lingotto. We had a tour of the city, visited the well-known Egypt Museum and the Palaces, Palazzo Reale, Palazzo Madame and the Reggia di Venaria, a walk through history, beauty and royal delights. Last but not least were happy shopping trips and the experiences in the café, gelato, the restaurants and tasted dishes of the Piedmont tradition. On 7 July, we joined the District 17 meeting when the then Incoming International President Lynn McKenzie and Outgoing International President Dianne K. Curtis both came and talked to us. Installation of Biennium 2012 -2014 District 17 Governor Mrs. Winnie Teoh and the new District Board took place amid the clapping of hands and congratulatory messages. As delegates and Alternates, we were fully briefed procedures and protocols in the Delegates and Alternates Training. The Open Forum chaired by International President Dianne 10 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r was a success. Questions were mostly about the developments, organization, work and directions of Zonta International. The Q&A sessions enabled members, both old and first-timers to have a better understanding of our organization. In the afternoon of 8 July 2012, we held the Opening Ceremony and reception. It was an amazing sight to see all the country flags on the stage and member’s colorful national costumes at the auditorium. We enjoyed the food and the conversations. The next few days were Business Sessions. Members were updated with the Anniversary reports, Finance Reports, our UN programs, the Executive Directors’ Report and Nominating Committee Report. Members paid full attention at all the Candidates’ speeches, clapping of hands in support and met with them individually, asked the right questions and acted with due diligence to vote the best candidates for the posts. Amendments in By-laws were thoroughly discussed and voted. We need to update our By-laws to cater for modern day situations. One of which is the passing of resolution in the formation of e-clubs. All the Zonta election results and convention material can be found in the Zonta International website. We were so excited on the 11th to meet the winners of the past Amelia Earhart Fellowship, YWPA award and JMK Scholarship. To hear how our contributions to Zonta International changed the lives of these winners and to see that they, being influenced by Zonta spirit are impacting the lives of many more in the society. This is the point where we felt that we should give more for such worthwhile courses. On the last day 12 July, our new International President Lynn, the new board and committee members presented the plans and recommended actions 20122014 Biennium. They were fully supported by delegates and members on the floor. The Closing Banquet and Installation Ceremony were held in the evening in Lingotto Fiere. The dinner was fantastic, and the wine was perfect. We took lots of beautiful pictures of the installation and handover ceremony of International Presidents Dianne/Lynn, the International President-Elect, the officers of the Board and the thirty-two pairs of District Governors as they catwalked along the run-way in their colorful costumes. The Convention ended with a very happy note. We reinforced friendships and made new friends. We opened our eyes to the work of the United Nations and grateful with the work progressed through our sponsorships. We are thankful of the contributions of the past officers and impressed with the sacrifices which created value and impact to the under-privileged women around the world. We also look forward to the new biennium where Zontians around the globe will continue to contribute, if not more, to the women in need. Special thanks from members of District 17 to Simone Ovart, Chairman of 2012 Convention Committee and her Committee Members for their dedication and hard work to make the 61st Convention a memorable and successful event. We also look forward to the 62nd Zonta International Orlando Convention (27 June – 1July 2014) to be hosted by District 11. Introducing our International Board Liaison Officer Anita Schnetzer-Spranger Anita Schnetzer-Spranger is a member of the Zonta Club of Mainz in Germany. Inspired by the internationality of Zonta, Anita joined at the age of 29. In the years since, she has served as club president, area director and most recently as Governor of District 28. Born and raised in Baden-Baden, Germany, Anita received a Master’s degree in economics with a specialty in marketing from the University of Freiburg. After working for an international advertising agency in London and Düsseldorf for several years, Anita became Marketing Manager for an international cosmetics company in Mainz. She is currently a self-employed marketing consultant. As International Director for the 2012-2014 Biennium, Anita’s goal is to strengthen the visibility, recognition and impact of Zonta and to support Zonta members to identify with Zonta. Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 11 Official Visits by District Governor By Winnie Teoh | District Governor Since the inauguration of my duties after the ZIC Turin, I have already covered about 15 official visits to various installations/service or advocacy projects in Manila, Bangkok, Phitsanulok, and Hong Kong. I hope to cover more in the future, so that I can introduce the many projects in my district to Zontians that I am meeting around the world. Area 1 On 2nd September, 2012, I visited the Correctional Institution for Women of which the livelihood programme is being continually supported by Zonta Club of Mandaluyong San Juan II. The support included conducting 3-day seminar to 150 inmates for spiritual healing and reinforcement of love. Club members also help to sell the products made by women inmates. Gross sales of revenues coming from club members referrals amounted to over PHP 1 million already or USD 25,000. These kinds of support help the inmates to achieve labour income and restore their dignity whilst serving prison term. A prominent marker at the entrance affirmed the contribution by Zonta Club of Mandaluyong San Juan II. The club is surely achieving creditability and visibility in their community! I was equally impressed when I visited the Zonta Club of Manila I Livelihood Centre in Tondo, Manila. For the past 12 years, the club has organized Nutrition & Health Kiddie Classes & other pre-schooling subjects for 4-6 years old children. On the upper floor, the Raja Soliman Z Club has organised a Poster Painting Contest titled ‘Retrieve or Grieve Over Mother Earth’ for Z members. This activity will launch the Z Club’s campaign to encourage protection of the environment in neighbouring schools & communities. I also presided over the Installation Ceremony of ZC of Manila who is the first Zonta Club in Asia & is celebrating its 60th Anniversary this year. Area 2 (Hong Kong) On 21st September 2012, we visited the HKSKH Lok Man Alice Kwok Integrated Service Centre. The Zonta Club of Hong Kong is supporting Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Kowloon City Elderly Services to run an “Easy Care” community support project for Caregivers from l March 2012- 28 February 2014. The programme seeks to train female caregivers to take care of the elderly, by providing in-home relaxation packages, crisis intervention, emotional support, & support resources. It is certainly a meaningful project! Another worthwhile project is being organised by the Zonta Club of New Territories in co-operation with the St. James Settlement in Hong Kong. The Club donated funds for the costs of electrical appliances for installation at homes of elderly persons, and costs relating to minor home improvement work when required. A significant proportion of the beneficiaries are elderly women. Area 5 Certainly one of the largest centre is the Zonta Club of Makati & Environs Women Development Centre that occupies a site of 1,000 sq meter in the Centennial village in Taguig City. The location provides the Club with a venue to conduct numerous projects to advance the status of women & to assist other underprivileged groups. Some of the main service projects include 2 full time doctors & one part time dentist to provide subsidized health care, medicine, & dental services. It is also the training ground for the Zonta KABABAIHAN project that nurtures women to be confident community leaders. New training modules for women who may be unskilled or could not continue their education due to financial constraints are also scheduled. Other empowerment projects & training seminars are also taking place in the centre. The visit is truly an enlightening experience! On September 3, 2012, I visited SAGIP Crisis Centre, a joint project organised by the Zonta Club of Muntinlupa & Environs and The City of Muntinlupa. The Centre is a one-stop crisis centre established to address domestic violence. The centre includes hotlines that receive reports of cases of domestic violence, counseling services for victims, legal & medical assistance for the victims, as well as a shelter with accommodation & daily facilities for mothers & children suffering from domestic violence. So far SAGIP has served 6,367 women & children suffering from abuse & violence. Over 20,000 participants have attended seminars to combat violence against women or children. The project is completely in alliance with our I was equally impressed when I visited the Zonta Club 12 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 13 objective of advancing the status of women worldwide, congratulations! There were quite a number of meaningful projects organized by the ZC of Laguna. Together with other Board members, we visited the temporary housing for monsoon rain victims at the Pedro Escueta Elementary School and were on hand to distribute emergency disaster preparedness kits. We also visited the Women Center at the Binan Doctors Hospital where women are benefitting from free pap smear examination. The Zonta Club of Laguna’s women beneficiaries under its Continuing Literacy & Livelihood Education Programme & Community Based Enterprise Development Programme displayed their products at St. Michael’s College & we are just too delighted to patronize. During the visit DG performed the ceremonial click of the Saint Michael’s College of Laguna Z & Golden Z Clubs’ e-Magazine. This Z Club has continued to win the Emma Colon Award for the ninth year & is truly a good model for the others. I am also very honoured to have presided over the Installation Ceremony for the Zonta Club of Laguna. Training for Incoming Board of District 17 in May 2012 Area 6 By Margaret Chan | District Secretary We enjoyed the fund raising concert organized by the Zonta Club of Bangkok III and appreciated the efforts of our Zontians in raising funds to organize service/advocacy projects. I am also the first District Governor in history to pay an Official Visit to the Zonta Club of Phitsanulok to the northern part of Thailand. During the visit, I met many Zontians of this Club who are equally committed to the objective of helping women. We also visited their Z Club that has a service project in helping impoverished communities in producing banana snacks. A two-day training session for the incoming board of District 17 was held on 19 and 20 May 2012 in Hong Kong, to prepare the Board Members for their forthcoming important roles. On the first day, Winnie Teoh, District 17 Governor, started the session with a welcome speech, followed by a “Bonding Session” led by Zontian Paula Ho. The evening was a dinner gathering organized by Hong Kong Zontians to welcome the Board Members. The next day included a rigorous training programme from 10 a.m. Zontian Paula Ho to 4:30 p.m. at the Regal Kowloon Hotel. The Hon Miriam Lau, Legislative Council Member, was invited to give a keynote speech on “Women Leadership in a Changing World”. DG Winnie Teoh spoke on leading and managing the District, and proposed the District Biennial Goals for the 2012-2014 biennium to “Reinvent the Zonta Difference: We care · We contribute · We mentor”. DG Winnie also set a target of 8% membership growth for the biennium, suggested each Area to SOM a new Zonta Club, and initiated discussion of achieving more visibility on the Happy “Bonding” Internet through Club websites and Club web pages. Talks on this day included topics on Membership, Financial Matters, Governance, Leading and Managing Area, IT Development, Z and Golden Z Clubs, Service, and Advocacy. The Board Members gave a sharing of thoughts and participated in informal discussions to conclude the two-day training session. It was a successful event, and all attendees expressed gratitude for the arrangements and the benefits that ensued. DG Winnie (left) and The Hon Miriam Lau DG Winnie (Front row 4th from left) & all attending Board Members & Speakers at the Training Session 14 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 15 Training for Club Officers, Area 1-6, District 17 A Club is Born By Winnie Teoh | District Governor By Daisy P. Arce | Area 1 Director 4 sessions of Training have been conducted for A1 combined with Area 3, Area 2, Area 4 comibined with Area 5, and Area 6. During the training, the approved Zonta International and District 17 Biennial Goals, as well as information on pertinent aspects of being a Club Officer have been presented. The topics included Leading & Managing the district, area or a club, Governing Documents, Membership, Financial Matters, Advocacy, Service, IT Development, Golden Z & Z Clubs, Protocol & Zonta 100th Anniversary, Scholarships & Awards & Zonta International Foundation. The various presentations seek to equip the incoming officers with information that will help them to achieve creditability, visibility and good governance, and implement effectively the District 17 Biennial Goals of We Care, We Contribute, We Mentor. The training was held in 3 cities of Manila, Bangkok, and Hong Kong and was attended by 380 representatives from the 6 Areas. Overall response has been most encouraging. The Zontians have found such sessions most educational and helpful for their respective positions in their Club. The organisation of the Trainings have been laboriously handled by the Area Directors Daisy Arce, Linda Wang, Anita Sanchez, Ophelia Flores, Anabel Johnston and Palarp Sinhaseni. Let us give them a big hand full of thanks ! The presentation to the 2012 District 17 YWPA Winner,Jessica Evangeline Tan Kabigting nominted by Zonta Club of Quezon City, was conducted during the Training Session on l September, 2012. For 21 remarkable women, June 1, 2012 is a day to remember. On that day, the Charter Certificate of the Zonta Club of Pampanga and Environs was approved. The club is the 14th club in Area 1, District 17, and the first club chartered in Biennium 2012-2014. The Charter Presentation, Induction of Charter members and Installation of the Charter President, the officers and directors followed on June 30, 2012. Led by Charter President Elvira Gozun-Sumadchat, the club officers pledged to uphold and practice the ideals of Zonta. It was a long process. But for the tenacity of the proponents in the Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II, the chartering would not have happened. It took almost 6 years for the chartering of Zonta Club of Pampanga and Environs to come to fruition. Giving birth is hard but what a sense of accomplishment when done! So it is when a child is born. So it is when a club is born. So it was when the Zonta Club of Pampanga and Environs was born. We all welcome the Zonta Club of Pampanga and Environs to the Zonta family. Charter President Elvira GozunSumadchat Plaque of Appreciation given to Angeles City Vice Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting for delivering an inspiring message to the club Chartering, Induction and Installation of Officers & Members on 30 June 2012 In Search of Good News By Marily Y. Orosa | District 17 Public Relations and Communications Committee Chair There are a thousand and one reasons why Zontians should read good news and success stories about each other. One universal reason is that it is healthy to have happy thoughts which trigger a sense of indescribable well being. The foremost reason however is that Zonta is a fellowship of women achievers who each have a noteworthy story to share. Our Zonta District 17 website was created for such a reason. Tales of achievements from our roster of clubs have to be shared if only to encourage each one of us that indeed, there is goodness in this world – and it is brought about by the empowered women of Zonta. Imagine how many pages of newsletters, websites, magazines and books our individual and collective stories can fill. 16 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r Do you have a wonderful story to tell of a special club project that has made a difference in the life of a group of stakeholders or a community or even a nation? Do send a clear and concise write-up of about 600-800 words and two photos to my email address marilyo@yahoo.com. It is important though that the story be touching, inspiring and must showcase the united effort of members of a Zonta Club to bring the project’s specific goals into fruition. Camaraderie, excellence and staying true to the ideals of Zonta must stand out in each story. Let us Zontians enjoy each other’s good news – and in the process stay healthy, beautiful and empowered. Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 17 UNITE : Stop Domestic Violence NOW ! A Better World for Women – By Marilyn C. Alentajan, MD | Dist 17 Advocacy Committee Chair By Chona M. Lopez | District Chair, Service Committee Awareness …Education...Solutions ...Legislation For this biennium, Zonta International through its Districts and its Clubs have aligned our goals with those of the UN Women - focusing on the elimination of violence against women and the girl-child. In District 17, our Advocacy activities are organized as we CARE...we CONTRIBUTE ...we MENTOR. Clubs are enjoined to integrate Advocacy with their Service projects. The first step taken to promote advocacy activities in the District is to set the Advocacy organization down to the club level. I proposed the appointments of Vice Chairs for each Area of the District, as recommended by the respective Area Directors, namely: Area 1 - Maros Ancheta Area 2 - Thelma Tong Area 3 - Mafelou Agliam Area 4 - Mary Jane Ortega Area 5 - Jo Mariza Belmonte Subsequently, Clubs were reminded to elect their respective Advocacy Committee Chairs. On 24 November 2012, the eve of the UN declared International Day to End Violence against Women and the start of the 16 Days of Activism to End All Forms of Violence Against Women & Girls, we will have the Advocacy Forum and Website Launch at the historic Kalayaan Hall of Club Pilipino, Greenhills, Metro Manila. In this forum, women leaders, advocates, and legislators from the Philippines, Hongkong, and Thailand have been invited to present perspectives on Awareness, Education, Solutions, & Legislation to Stop Domestic Violence. However, at the start of the biennium 2012-2014, my club, the Zonta Club de Valle Verde (ZCVV), spearheaded the advocacy activities with a Forum on Violence Against Women & Children (VAWC), among the women leaders and officials of a community in Quezon City, the Barangay Culiat, last July 6, 2012. More than 100 women, together with the local government officials, and members of our ZCVV, learned so much from this forum: information and methods of implementation of this law. This strong partnership between ZCVV and the local government units was successfully forged by our present Club President, Glenda C. Venzuela. The ZCVV has replicated this VAWC Forum in other local communities of Quezon City, as monthly livelihood projects are conducted. This strategy taken by the Club is aligned with the Zonta International policy to incorporate Advocacy with Service projects. In September 2012, the Zonta Clubs in Hong Kong were given a donation of HK$ 99,545.00 by the Women’s Commission in Hong Kong for the support of their Joint Service Project “Embracing Your Life: Enjoy a Beautiful Life – Body, Mind and Spiritual Wellness”. The project is run by the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui. The Dist 17 Advocacy Committee’s thrusts are aligned with the ZI & Dist 17 goals for 20122014: CREDIBILITY & VISIBILITY thru SERVICE & ADVOCACY ... as we CARE, CONTRIBUTE, & MENTOR. ZC Valle Verde of Area 1 advocacy project “STOP Domestic Violence!” Women leaders and local government officials in a community of Quezon City with Ateneo Human Rights Center Atty Ray Paolo Santiago (seated 4th from left) educating everyone on the provisions and implementing rules of law on Violence Against Women & Children (VAWC) 18 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r “We Care, We Contribute, We Mentor” The first quarter of this biennium was marked by preparations for the area training of officers and members of District 17. The successful area trainings were held last September in Makati for Areas 1, 3, 4 and 5, in Bangkok for Area 6 and in Hong Kong for Area 2. The clubs conducted their own respective strategic planning on how to best achieve the goals of Zonta International and the District. During the training sessions, the presidents and officers were briefed to align their club’s service projects with Zonta International (ZI) and the District’s biennial goals. They were also apprised of the respective responsibilities of the District Service Committee Chair and the Area Service Committee Vice Chairs with regards to projects and programs to be undertaken by clubs. The ZI Service Committee goals for biennium 2012-2014 are as follows: To promote international service and ZISVAW projects through contributions to the Zonta International Foundation. • To encourage and support local service projects. • To ensure that projects are focused on Zonta’s mission of empowering women. • To increase internal and external visibility of these projects to promote the credibility of the organization. • To emphasize on the importance of supporting both international and local projects by combining service with advocacy for greater impact. District Service Committee Chair Chona Lopez encouraged the clubs to examine the different international service projects of ZI as these give us an idea on what kind of service projects matters most to Zonta International. The International Service projects for this biennium focus on maternal health, education, economic empowerment of women, and the elimination of violence against women by changing attitudes and behavior of society. With the high maternal and child mortality rates in the Philippines, there is much we can do by focusing on service projects that can save mothers’ lives. At the same time, we can educate pregnant women on the importance of pre and post-natal care, and of giving birth in hospitals or lying-in centers with trained health staff. On education, some clubs have been offering scholarship programs for young women and girls, while others promote literacy programs. Each club should also strive to have projects or advocate for the elimination of violence against women as this goal is close to Zonta’s heart. ZI will have an annual contest for the best service project. In planning our service projects, we should also keep in mind the district’s theme for this biennium which is “Reinvent the Zonta Difference: We Care • We Contribute • We Mentor.” With this theme in mind -- We Care for our women beneficiaries through our service projects and advocacy; We Contribute our services to our community with greater visibility and credibility; and We Mentor our women beneficiaries by combining service and advocacy. Yes, let us continue creating a better world for women. Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 19 ZI District 17 and United Nations By Mildred “Mitzi” Flores Piad Ph.D | UN District Committee Chairman List of District 17 Presidents Club Company Full Name AREA 1 The United Nations is a flame that should keep burning in the hearts of every Zontian. Zonta International service has been closely linked with the United Nations in partnering and providing consultative status to United Nations agencies, aiming to reach a broader audience in advancing the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy. We bring women’s concerns to the UN, suggests solutions and draw public attention to the United Nations’ 8 Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) focusing on its MDG 3 which is promoting gender equality and empowering women and MDG 5 on improving matenal health. Advocacy dates are observed by the Zontians and last year, the United Nations declared that October 11th will be International Day of the Girl Child. And so October was a busy UN Month for the Club Presidents of our 6 areas in District 17. Reported advocacy actions from some clubs came from: Area 6 Zonta Clubs Bangkok 1,II,III, lV,V,VI,VII,Vlll,IX Khonkaen, Chiangmai, Chiangrai l,Phitsanulok and Ratchaburi who joined efforts and organized a 3 day Seminar Cum Exhibition; Area 1 had ZC Greater Rizal 1 launch an Essay Writing Contest with the theme “Fulfilling my Ambition through Education”. ZC Greater Rizal 2 held a lecture on UN Awareness and donated 100 sacks of rice to Tuloy Foundation, home of 700 streetchildren. ZC Marikina came up with a Peace Poster Making Contest. ZC Quezon City celebrated UN Day of the Girl Child with abandoned and neglected children of the Children Joy Foundation Inc. donating sacks of rice, school, food supplies and laundry needs while ZC Mandaluyong San Juan 2 conducted a Seminar and Open Forum for 200 HS students on Early Teenage Pregnancy, Premarital Sex and ZISVAW. ZC Manila 1 initiated “Gabay Ineng” in their Z Club promoting mental and emotional health of teenage girls and had preschoolers in Tondo Day Care Center portray prominent empowered women during their UN Day celebration. ZC Antipolo celebrated UN with a Fashion Show of International Costumes and invited Local Government Officials and United Women’s Group to speak on Local Millennium Development Goals. Area 4 had ZC Laoag hanging streamers announcing 20 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r First UN Celebration of Girl Child Day and linked up with fast food etablishments to give 10% discount to the girl child. Likewise ZC Baguio celebrated Girl Child Day treating 100 girls and delivering lectures on personal hygiene. In Area 5, ZC Makati & Environs Foundation Inc. held a UN Forum with Spouses of the Heads of Mission (SHOM) sharing information on the status of women in their countries inviting me as Dist. Com Chair to relay the Message of UN Secretary General BAN-KI MOON. ZC of Makati Ayala with their continuing activity on “Storytelling Time with Mothers and their Daughters” focussed on simple true-to-life stories on UNICEFs Campaign Against Illiteracy, Against Child Marriage, Against Conscription of Girl-Children as Soldiers and their Forcible Employment as Sex Slaves afterwhich leaving the women and daughters empowered discovering they have rights under the UN mandate and under the Philippine government’s laws. ZC Pasay conducted a UN Day Parade with the participation of the whole barangay and the students in UN costumes. The club awarded ‘Best in Float’ required recycled materials to focus on saving the environment and ‘Best in International Costume’ seeing to it that all countries are represented. ZC Makati Paseo de Roxas marked UN day distributing intermediate wheelchairs to 23 children afflicted with rare “orphan diseases” while ZC Muntinlupa invited Red Cross Speakers, their club scholars, community officials and beneficiaries of the club’s flagship projects, SAGIP (Saklolo at Gabay ng Ina at Pamilya) women and children vctims of Abuse and public school teachers of GABAY BATA . On December 10, we bid all areas to celebrate International Human Rights Day and join us in a cultural presentation at Manila Hotel entitled, “Zonta International, District 17 Presents Echoes”. We are producing a tableau of Women Defenders and Advocates of International Human Rights portraying a fraction of their Personalities. Part one of the program will be the launching of the Zonta Legacy Coffee Table Book. May Zontians forever be the beacons that would illuminate our paths towards a stronger United Nations providing a better and safer place for our women and girls! Club Company Full Name AREA 4 279 MANILA I Felicidad D. Umandap 621 BAGUIO Irma C. Pangilinan 619 QUEZON CITY Lourdes Marasigan 846 ILOCOS NORTE Marsha Leoncia M. Aoigan 667 MANDALUYONG-SAN JUAN Dolores De Quiros-Castillo 982 TUGUEGARAO Josefina Dirige Oblego 1258 GREATER RIZAL I Cynthia S. Samia 1294 CENTRAL TUGUEGARAO Florentina B. Ancheta 1345 EDSA & ITS ENVIRONS Cheryl V. Delarmente 1348 APARRI Marylin Santos 1372 MANILA II Carmencita C. Mauricio 1853 LA UNION SAN FERNANDO CITY Mary Rose Badar 1395 GREATER RIZAL 2 Levi Sy Ang 1402 DE VALLE VERDE Glenda C. Venzuela 666 MAKATI & ENVIRONS Corazon J. Tan 1447 MARIKINA Maria Cynthia I. Paz 1135 PASIG Solita Tan-gatue 1585 MANILA III Marilyn G. Joaquin 1206 MUNTINLUPA AND ENVIRONS Gloria Dominguez Garcia 1690 MANDALUYONG-SAN JUAN II Manuela Go 1254 MAKATI AYALA Maria Rosa N. ‘Bing’ Carrion-Buck 1696 ANTIPOLO CITY Josephina “Pining” G. Gatlabayan 1298 LAGUNA Merlene Alon NAGA - CAMARINES SUR Chona C. Belmonte AREA 5 1748 BALIUAG Loretta B. Cabrera 1346 1900 PAMPANGA AND ENVIRONS Elvira Gozun Sumadchat 1347 METRO RIZAL Elizabeth Encarnacion 1349 PATEROS - TAGUIG Sonia Y. De Leon AREA 2 571 HONG KONG Joan Leung Lye 1430 METROPOLITAN PASIG Elizabeth Florentino 676 SINGAPORE Cecilia Pang 1446 CAVITE Narcisa Montano 816 KOWLOON Helen Po Jen Kwan 1512 LUCENA CITY & ENVIRONS Dr. Mildred F. Piad 922 HONG KONG EAST Lilian Vrijmoed 1519 LAS PINAS Loretta H. Caudal 1009 NEW TERRITORIES Patricia Yeung 1584 METRO ORTIGAS Enriqueta V. Doble 1339 VICTORIA, HONG KONG Lydia Siu Ying Yip 1622 MAKATI-PASEO DE ROXAS Praxedes Tan 1540 KUANTAN Dr. Pushpa 1830 FORT BONIFACIO Anselma Emma Uy Rivera 1716 Hong Kong II Michelle Ip 1832 ALABANG Kathleen Lior-Liechtenstein 1884 KUALA LUMPUR Husna Sulaiman 1872 PARAÑAQUE Rosario Calixto Chavez 1887 PASAY Gloria M. Kaw AREA 3 615 CEBU CITY Lucille Colina 622 DAVAO CITY Dolly Lim 624 BANGKOK I Sunetr Kunanantakul 623 BACOLOD CITY Merle Lizares 840 BANGKOK II Mrs. Chavali Osathanugrah 720 ILOILO CITY Yolanda S. Galvez 1133 BANGKOK III Poonsri Jongsaenthong 896 CAGAYAN DE ORO Ma. Theresa Fernandez 1331 KHONKHAEN Aruwan Hancharoensak AREA 6 926 ZAMBOANGA CITY Pilar T. Torres 1370 BANGKOK IV Preeyatip Sittikornkul 1002 CEBU II Myrna C. Tan 1492 BANGKOK V Sariya Siwayu 1318 ILOILO CITY II Ms. Ma. Teresa Debuque 1541 BANGKOK VI Dr. Thanawadee Boonlue 1514 DAVAO CITY II Rosalinda Young 1586 CHIANGMAI Raya Luelai (Madeline) 1544 CAGAYAN DE ORO II Eloisa Gabor Pedrajas 1680 CHIENGRAI I Yaawalak Srisaichuea 1597 TACLOBAN Noemi Zelent 1681 BANGKOK VII Samorn Deesomlert 1727 PHITSANULOK Kanungnit Pupatwibul 1775 RATCHABURI Weena Srisanpang 1843 BANGKOK VIII Cholticha Mahakitsiri 1896 BANGKOK IX Romanee Thienprasiddhi Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 21 Area 1 Report By Daisy P. Arce | Area 1 Director In Philippine history, the First Quarter Storm was, according to Wikipedia, a period of leftist unrest composed of a series of heavy demonstrations, protests and marches against the government from January to March 1970, or the first quarter of 1970. It was one of the factors which led to the declaration of martial law in 1972. For Zontians in Area 1, the first quarter of the biennium is a story waiting to be told. A few weeks out from the Torino Convention, technically, the first quarter of Biennium 2012-2014, the Philippines experienced a series of typhoons. First there was typhoon Gener followed by a typhoon with no name which TV networks, for lack of a better appellation, dubbed as Habagat (meaning the “westerly wind”). Newspaper columnists reported that in the path of Habagat, “entire communities were rendered homeless, congregating, wet and shivering in makeshift evacuation shelters”. While in the past, the Philippines had been subjected to typhoons and other sorts of weather disturbances, it had never experienced flooding of such an extent and duration. Zontians were not spared form this catastrophe. There was intense raining and thunderstorms in the National Capital Region for 8 days, from August 1 through August 8, causing damage estimated to be at least P604.63 million pesos. In Metro Manila many streets were submerged in floodwaters. Even as Habagat lashed through the area on August 8, several members of the Zonta Club of Greater Rizal 1 were at the Padre Pio Feeding Station in Mandaluyong City, at the Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Parish in Santolan, Pasig City and in three other barangays, with rice, dinner packs, sandwiches, bread, biscuits and bottled water to give to flood evacuees displaced from their houses by the rising floodwaters. At about the same time, on August 9, the Zonta Club of Mandaluyong San Juan II, brought relief goods for flood evacuees who were temporarily being housed at the San Juan City Gymnasium with the help of city mayor Guia Gomez. Zonta Club of Manila III organized relief activities at Barangay St. Joseph in the same city. Spearheaded by its president, Marilyn G. Joaquin, the club put together 300 food bags and clothes which were distributed to flood evacuees in what is called the poorest barangay in San Juan City. Zonta Club of Antipolo led by its president Josephina Gatlabayan organized the distribution of relief goods to 75 families in Sitio Majayjay, Barangay Muntingdilaw, Antipolo City. Zonta Club of Quezon City provided fresh milk donated by the Philippine National Red Cross, freshly baked rolls and bottled water to more than 100 evacuees at the Cassanova Maternal and Child Development Center in Barangay Culiat, Quezon City. The Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II first conducted a feeding program and distributed medicines to 2,000 people in four barangays of Sto. Nino on August 10. The very next day they distributed bags of grocery items and school supplies to 200 families in Ternate, Cavite. Two days later, in what seemed like a gargantuan military operation, the club distributed 2,000 bags of grocery items in Pampano, Kalookan City. Club president Levi Ang described the scene as an “organized melee”. It is not easy to distribute relief goods to 2,000 hungry recipients jostling for their place in the rain. Not to be outdone, the Zonta Club of Pampanga and Environs, the newest club on the block, sommed by the Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II, and chartered only on June 1, organized what would be a most dramatic relief operation yet. In what seemed to be a scene straight out of a disaster movie, members of the club, some of whom were themselves victims of Habagat, underwent a 2 and a half hour drive through flooded streets on 6 x 6 trucks provided by the 703rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, transporting relief goods consisting of rice, canned goods, quick cook noodles, biscuits, soap and shampoo, used but usable clothing and filtered water donated by Star Fish Barangay Water packed in 5 liter containers with the unmistakable Zonta logo prominently displayed. The goods were transferred to bancas (local canoe-like boats) and club members, doing a balancing act, went for the 25-minute ride to Barangay Dalayap, in Macabebe, Pampanga, a 4th class coastal municipality in an islet with 705 families, 485 of which are classified as “indigent” by the Department of Social Welfare and Development. President Elvie Gozon-Sumadchat reported that 4 days of unrelenting rain was made worse by the overflowing of five dams inundating areas with as much as ten feet of water. And when everyone, including the weather bureau, thought Habagat was on the wane, the Zonta Club de Valle Verde went to the ABS-CBN Foundation Sagip Kapamilya with a donation of P30,000 to be pooled with the rest of the donations coming in from other sources, to help more flood victims. But the rains did not stop. Without any consultation among themselves, the clubs responded and in the true Zonta spirit brought aid and food to those affected. The primary purpose of the relief operations of the various clubs was to help, but in the process the activities were brought to the notice of the community through local newspapers, thereby generating greater visibility for Zonta in the locality. We have known what our geography and weather conditions are like but we have chosen to ignore them. We have closed our eyes to the denudation of our forests and watersheds. We have contributed to the blockage of our natural flood passageways by Relief operations of ZC Mandaluyong San Residents of Barangay Dalayap lining up to wait their turn to receive relief goods building structures over them or indiscriminately throwing mounds of garbage. Zonta Club of Manila I sponsored a poster painting contest open to the members of its Z Club in Raja Soliman Institute of Science and Technology last September 2. With the theme “Retrieve or Grieve Over Mother Earth”, it commenced the project of the Z Club to organize a campaign within the school and the neighbouring community to encourage awareness of the environment and the measures to protect it. So, in the future, when one speaks of the First Quarter Storms, the Area 1 Zontian will remember sister Zontians who, in heartrending situations stood proud, stepped up to the plate, showed they cared and contributed their best efforts to help victims of circumstances. We are Zontians – We Care, We Contribute, We Mentor. Relief operations of ZC of Greater Rizal Relief operations of ZC of Greater Rizal 22 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r Zontian Analiza Agbanglo and Lea Rivera Bais distributing the relief goods Filtered water donated by Starfish Barangay Water Filtered water donated by Starfish After Relief operations of ZC Mandaluyong San a successful relief operation, pose of joy Juan II. and smile on the lips of Zontian Analiza Agbanglo, Lea Rivera Bais, Gilda Padua, Ligaya Foster and Mabel Sison with friends and members of 703rd IB, 7th ID Philippine Army Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 23 Area 2 Report By Linda Wang | Area 2 Director Six Presidents of Area 2 Zonta Clubs with many officers and members attended the Zonta International 61st Convention in Torino in July 2012. We came home energized and enthused with what Zonta can do to make a difference in the lives of women and girls worldwide. The Hong Kong clubs jumped straight in with a Joint Service Project called “Embracing Your Life: Enjoy a Beautiful Life - Body, Mind and Spiritual Wellness”. Total funding for this project is HK$ 99,545. The project, partly supported by the Women’s Commission in HK and run by the HK Sheng Kung Hui Tung Chung Integrated Services will take place from September 2012- February 2013. It will reach out to women in one of the new towns of Hong Kong where women find themselves isolated, lonely and depressed. Other Service Projects ongoing and in the pipeline are: ZC of HK East “Shining Stars” – a most successful project helping the mentally challenged and disabled to build up life-long interest and skills through playing musical instruments and through the performing arts, raising their self-esteem and confidence. ZC of Singapore “Project Pari” – an ongoing project working with schools to identify girls from disadvantaged families, extending financial assistance and providing life skills training. ZC of Kowloon “Teenage Mother Project” – assisting teenage mothers 24 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r improve their literacy skills through English tutorial classes; financial subsidy to help them continue their study or take up occupational training; organize career talks and carry out home visits to build up a supportive network. ZC of Hong Kong “Educating Teenage Girls Against Compensated Dating” – a comprehensive project targeting about 50 girls age 12-18 with therapeutic and self-reflective help, experiential learning activities, workshop and self development programs. On Membership – Area 2 Clubs in Hong Kong, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur have been inducting new members and are confident to meet the 8% increase in membership goal. Golden Z and Z Clubs – We are proud to note that Area 2 with a total of 21 Z and GZ clubs has the highest number of Z and GZ Clubs in District 17. Our 6 GZ Clubs are preparing for a Mock Debate inside Hong Kong’s Legislative Council. They will have a training session on Oct 27 followed by the mock debate on the marriage bill on Nov.17. These once in a lifetime experience will give them the opportunity of learning how a bill is passed and made into law. Area 2 Training of Officers Sept 22nd 2012 – A great turnout of about 50 Zontians from 7 out of our 9 Area 2 Clubs came to a most informative and intense 4 hour training session followed by a Chinese banquet dinner. DGWinnie with 6 overseas and 2 Hong Kong speakers explained Zonta International and District goals and vision; committee responsibilities and everything we needed to know in their short allotted time. We learnt and had fun networking with one another. During the dinner, DGWinnie presented the 2nd place award of the Emma L. Conlon Service Award to the HKU Golden Z Club. Past President Elina then gave us a short speech on what projects they did to win the prize. All Presidents of the HK Clubs and our VIP guest Mrs. Stella Lau (Chairlady of the Women’s Commission) then presented a cheque for HK$99,545 to the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council for our Joint Service Project. Visitations to 2 Service Projects took place in the morning with DGWinnie and our overseas Board members/speakers much impressed with the community work being done. The first visit was to HK Sheng Kung Hui’s center in To Kwa Wan where ZC of HK has just completed a project helping carers of the sick and old called “Easy Caring and Love Me More Project. The second visit was to St. James Settlement’s center in Wanchai where ZC of the New Territories has an ongoing project providing home repair to the elderly. Presentation of cheque to SKH by Ms. Stella Lau (Chair of the Women’s Commission) and the Presidents of the Zonta Clubs in Hong Kong. Shining Stars Finale Dance Area 3 Report By Dr. Anita Y. Sanchez | Area 3 Director In June and July, 2012, the eleven (11) Zonta Clubs in Area 3 were busy in the induction into office of their respective incoming leaders who assumed office to serve during the 2012-14 biennium. Realizing the numerous needs for socio-civic actions for the different beneficiaries, the Zontians, with much enthusiasm and genuine eagerness, are encouraged to continue the on-going projects and meaningful activities in their respective communities. After disseminating the ZI biennium goals as approved during the 61st ZI Convention in Turin, Italy last July, 2012, and the District 17 goals as well, as espoused by D17G WINNIE TEOH, “REINVENTING THE ZONTA DIFFERENCE, WE CARE, WE CONTRIBUTE, WE MENTOR”, both gave the required directions to the different Zonta Clubs to be more proactive and make their respective presence felt in the localities where they are situated. Presently, the different Clubs are already actively working on the recruitment of more qualified, civicspirited new members in order to meet the expected 8% membership increase envisioned by ZI and District 17. In the same trend, the formation of Zonta Z and Golden Z Clubs are included among the priorities of each Club in Area 3. Ably assisting the Area 3 office is Vice Area 3 Director Esper Dacudao who is the Past President of Zonta Club of Cagayan de Oro II. She is in direct contact and actively coordinating with the Zonta Clubs in Mindanao, Philippines. For proper office coordination and management, Area 3 has appointed Zontian Tina Ebrada as the 2012-14 Secretary. She is the Past President of Zonta Club of Cebu I. Teamwork and networking among the ZClubs in Area 3 will be enhanced and achieved with Zontian Tina in that position. It is noteworthy to mention that ZC of Iloilo City I, received the 3rd prize award for Club Achievement during the 2010-2012 biennium, per certificate issued in July, 2012 by ZI President Dianne Curtis. For community visibility, the same club also has maintained a Zonta Center Island near the provincial capitol in Iloilo City, with a very prominent Zonta logo thereat, which achieves ZI goal on VISIBILITY. Additionally, to serve the victims of trafficking and violence against battered women and children, it has maintained a 24/7 well-manned help desk at the Iloilo City police department for prompt assistance to those unfortunate affected parties. Zonta Club of Cebu II, organized in 1982, celebrated its 30th PEARL Anniversary on August 24, 2012, with the presence of some Zonta dignitaries from Manila and Cebu I. It was a very fitting occasion wherein the Past Presidents of Cebu II were recognized and acknowledged for their valuable achievements during their term of office. ZI PP Livie Ferry was the honored guest speaker in that auspicious occasion, who delivered a very inspiring message. Lately, the club donated medical equipment to a hospital in Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines. Jointly with Zonta Club of Cebu I, the battered women and children are assisted by the PINK CENTER in Cebu City. Such partnership with Cebu I, financially supported the operation of that center for a number of years already. Zonta Club of Iloilo II has a Golden Z Club with more than 80 active members at St. Theresa – MTC Colleges in Iloilo City. The school is owned by Zontian past prexy, DR. TERRY SARABIA. Kudos to you! Periodic Zonta Clubs’ reports as well as club visitations enabled us to see the profound club projects undertaken by the Zontians in Area 3. The continuing projects include feeding programs, medical and dental missions; programs for the elderly assistance and care; support for pre-school day care centers, participation in environmental and climate change concerns, and many more. We unceasingly help others because that is what makes Zontians HAPPY FOR AS LONG AS WE LIVE! - AYS In Native Attire Zebu Ii Zone Cluab Ladies With Zi President Lyn Mckenzie (Center) Attended Zi 61st Convention In Turn, July, 2012 Immediate Past A 3d File Mile At Extreme Lefta CEP U II Contains Donated Medical Equipment to Mandate City Hospital President Myrna Cruz Tan (4th From Left) With Her Members Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 25 Area 4 Report Area 5 Report By Ophelia Flores | Area 4 Director By Claudette Mendiola– Cruz | Area 5 Vice Director “At the end of the day,it does not matter how many cars you drove,how many houses you owned,how many jewelries you collected. What matters is that someone's life improved because you have lived." Guided by this principle,area 4 of Zonta International District 17 embarked on their various projects to achieve the goals of District 17. It is with pride that the 6 clubs of area 4 present their activities within the first quarter of the biennium. All 6 clubs installed their officers for 2012-2014 and inducted new members. 1) Zonta club of Aparri chartered a golden Z club with 25 college students from Cagayan State University. Sponsored a regular course in baking of bread and pastries with 11 housewives and unemployed young women.Conducted seminars on Aids/Hiv & STI on Sept 22 to college students.Inducted 6 new members The first quarter of the biennium for the Zonta members of Area 5 District 17 was bustling with turn-over of duties and responsibilities to the new officers, installation of new officers and, induction of new members. Among the important organizational activities that the clubs went into, aside from the abovementioned activities, were Strategic Planning at the club level and the Area Club Officers Training last September 1, 2012. While all these social and turn over events were ongoing, the Zontians of Area 5 did not forget to continue their ongoing service projects, most even responded to the recent calamity that befell a lot of municipalities in the Philippines – flooding that were more than 4 feet high, leaving thousands homeless. The different clubs’ responses might be varied, but they all speak of Zonta’s commitment to serve and to act collectively during times of crisis. WE CARE........We care about the marginalized and deprived sector of our society particularly the women and children. ZC of Makati Environs: Livelihood Programs to uplift the economic status of women-training on cosmetology, cooking and reflexology; Continuing Healthcare Program for women; Preschool program at the ZC of Makati Environs Community Center. 2) Zonta club of Baguio conducted an extensive english enhancement workshop for undergraduates and unemployed college graduates. It is a joint project with TESDA and CTEIS. Beneficiaries can easily be employed as call center agents or ESL tutors in english or if employed have salary upgrades. Graduated 85 participants.Continued supporting the Puguis La Trinidad Orphanage through their feeding program. Inducted 3 new members 3) Zonta Club of La UnionSan Fernando City.Continuing project for the Elderly club of La Union through social activities . Launched the WOMEN'S DESK COUNSELLING CENTER "Sagut ti Babbai"@ the St Wiliams Parish Church in cooperation with the Social Service Ministry. Conducted a ballroom night as fund raising project with 200 ballroom dancers. Inducted 5 new members 4) Zonta club of Central Tuguegarao inducted 11 new members 5) Zonta Club of Ilocos Norte Laoag inducted 6 new members.3 continuing projects-5 women scholars @ Marcos State University,adoption of the children's ward of the Ilocos Norte Provincial Hospital providing medical & linen supplies as need arises,monthly financial support to San Lorenzo Charity Clinic. Information campaign on 1st observance of UN International Day of the GIRL CHILD by hanging streamers all over the province. Joined Laoag city social welfare and special Education Div. of DEP ED in celebration of Disability week 6) Zonta Club of Tuguegarao Foundation inducted 6 new members Zonta Club of Ilocos Norte: Women of Grace and Action 26 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r ZC of Muntinlupa and Environs: SAGIP “Saklolo at Gabay ng Ina at Pamilya” center – ongoing project promoting women’s rights and shelter for abused women and girls; Gabay Bata Council School Year Planning Workshop. ZC of Makati-Ayala: Newly launched program which started last June 2012: Hopenet Cyber-Educationfor public school girls ages 10- 15 years old in partnership Hopenet and Department of Education. ZC of Laguna: Distribution of Disaster Preparedness Kits to 130 families; Lecture on Disaster Preparedness to the recipients of the kits; Continuing service program : “Pangdagdag Kabuhayan para sa Nanay na nasa Bahay”; Comunity Outreach DayCare Program for 25 kids. ZC of Metro Rizal: Dental and Medical Mission with 250 beneficiaries; Continuing Livelihood Program. ZC of Metro Pasig: Relief program with 500 families beneficiaries; Continuing Adult and Health Literacy program – 55 beneficiaries. ZC of Las Pinas: Continuing service program: “Dagdag Kabuhayan para sa mga Kababaihan”; Relief Operations for Habagat victims; the club sponsored a Feeding and Health Awareness Seminar. ZC of Metro Ortigas: Breast Health and Breast Cancer Awareness Program – on going service project; Adopt a Shelter by providing skills training and values and health education to Trafficking Survivors at Antipolo City; Adopt a Daycare Center – regular feeding to malnourished daycare children. ZC of Makati-Paseo de Roxas: “Wheels for Humanity”– assessed 15 children with exceptional diseases. ZC of Fort Bonifacio: Continuing program for women: KKK Livelihood Project – “ang Kagandahan at Kalusugan ay Kabuhayan pa”; Relief Operations during the Habagat – 780 beneficiaries, and Medical Mission to 200 flood victims in Taguig. ZC of Alabang: Relief OperationOplan Habagat, the club distributed 1,000 relief goods , it benefitted 967 families. ZC of Pasay Environs: Relief Operation- “Oplan Habagat”, the club distributed relief goods to 1000 families. Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 27 Area 6 Report By Dr. Palarp Sinhaseni | Area 6 Director WE CONTRIBUTE..... We contribute to nation building through alternative systems to bridge gaps to service delivery systems in the community. ZC of Makati Environs: Skills Training was launched to empower womenEnglish Proficiency and Computer Literacy program Scholarship program in partnership with Polytechnic University of the Phils, Unilever and Woman Today; On September 25, 2012 during the ZCME General Membership Meeting all members wore orange as their way of saying “NO TO VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN”, and it was agreed every 25th of the month until Nov﹣ Orange Day; September 21 - Celebration of International Day of Peace, Ringing of the Bell; September 2012, Renaming of ZCME Community Center to Zonta Club of Makati Environs Center for Women Empowerment. ZC of Pasig Foundation: Scholarship Program for 3 university women at the University of the Philippines College of Business Administration. ZC of Muntinlupa:Tulong Dunong Scholarship Program to indigent High School girls at Muninlupa National High School; Livelihood Training for the 22 members of Watchgroup - they were trained on making hamburgers, siomai, dishwashing liquids in partnership with the office of Cong. Biazon; Construction of “SAGIP”Building. 28 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r ZC of Makati Ayala: Continuing Program: Women’s Correctional Support System. The club provides spiritual, emotional and physical comfort for the 500 women in the National Correctional Institute for Women. ZC of Laguna: Hatid Dunong para sa mga Kababaihan - Alternative Learning System in coordination with Canossa School Alumni Association with 20 adult scholars receiving basic education instruction 3 times a week; Assessment of children with learning difficulties and coming up with recommendations to the teachers and parents; Unite-Orange Day; elimination of violence against women and celebration of International Day of Peace- Ring a Bell with the Z and Golden Z Clubs of Saint Michael’s College of Laguna. ZC of Naga Camarines Sur: Continuing projects: Scholarship program- support six (6) high school girls at Naga Science High School; Supporting 2 Day Care Centers in the community; “Adopt a Community”Hablong Dawanim a shelter for abused women and girls; We Care, another center for abused women who needs legal and psychological counselling. ZC of Pateros-Taguig: H.E.A.L. program – Healthy Eating and Living – promotion of eating health and nutritious food accompanied with a cookbook distributed to the participants. ZC of Metro Pasig: Pabahay Housing Rehabilitation – beneficiaries 8 families; Partnership with Meralco Foundation on Scholarship Program for 50 High School Girls. ZC of Las Pinas: Scholarship program for high school indigent girls. ZC of Metro Ortigas: Adopt a Barangay – skills training on entrepreneurship, training on values and health education. ZC of Fort Bonifacio: Values Formation Day and Sharing of Personal Hygiene Items to 100 women in jail; Breast Feeding Corner at Barangay Rembo Health Center. ZC of Alabang: Donated a mammogram machine to Ospital ng Muntinlupa for the indigent women residents of the city. These women are privileged to have a free mammography in the said hospital. We mentor WE MENTOR.. our members and future women leaders for a better life and a better world. The goals are achieved through mentoring and giving Values Formation seminars to Z and Golden Z Clubs, conducting Strategic Planning meetings to orient Zontians on the biennium’s plans and holding continued education to Zontians such as speech academy, lifesytle forum, and leadership training including succession planning. Area 6 Strategic Plan for Biennium 2012 – 2014 Thailand ( Area 6 ) embraces sufficiency economy for development. We would like to see a happy society with fairness and resilience. Towards our Zonta goals , we would like to build credibility and visibility of Zonta through strengthening Zonta network integrity as well as through collaborative demonstration projects. Therefore , the plans are built according to the principles of Friends of great worth ( Kalayanumit by Dr. Sem Prungpuangkeo , 2006 ) Zontians are friends to each other and to networks. 1.)Zontians create a place for other Zontians in their hearts. Living heart to heart. ( Saraniyakorn ) 3.) Rose day awards to recognize individual zontians as role model in various fields. Cooperations with district programs 1) United Nations celebrations ( October 16 – 18 , 2012 )at Chamchuri Square, Bangkok, Thailand. We held an exhibition to educate zontians and public at large on various techniques to detect , assess and manage violence against women “ Towards the U.N. goals MDG3 and MDG5 ” Representative from the UN. Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Section of the Social Development Division , United Nations ESCAP, Ms. Rairat Rangsitphol spoke on MDGs background , its purpose and an overview of the MDG progress in Thailand. There are not only UN booth displaying posters and publications related to the UN , MDGs but also booths on women’ s empowerment activities from 14 Zonta clubs of Thailand. 2.)Well – loved ( Piyakorn ) 3.)Good friends to each other ( Kurukorn ) examples : teacher and students , parent and child 4.)Full of worth to each other ; creating benefit for each the other ( Kunakorn ) 5.)Standing together (Ekiyakorn ) as one Demonstration Projects 1.)Yellow Rose Planetarium in the park emphasizing Zonta centennials and accomplishments 2.)Upscaling of successful adolescent education model for several communities through Zonta clubsaround Thailand. with the Ministry of Women Development and Human Security which have local offices in all the provinces. In the afternoon of each of the three days of exhibition, we have the famous Chulalongkorn University pop band playing for the crowds. Some days the zontians sing with the band.On the last day, Hobby House art and craft was demonstrated after the whole day of research methodology such as qualitative research techniques as well as case studies were demonstrated by well known speakers. Since partnerships between providers , government agencies in local communities are an important part to ensure that local needs and perspectives are accounted for , we invited the association of women lawyers (Zontian Prakairat, is presently the president of the association) to join in a panel discussion The event was well attended and widely publicized in various newspapers. 2) Communication with board member Area 6 Towards the Zonta goals and district strategies,the following activities are accomplished according to the area strategic plan: 1. For Zontians to "always standing as one" area 6 carried out activities that ensure connection between district 17 and clubs to Zonta goals 1.1Area 6 board meetings were held ,one for the preparation of the officer training workshop to be carried out by the district 17 team at Sasa Nives , Chulalongkorn University 15-16 September. The other one for the preparation of the Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 29 U.N. celebration cum exhibition to be held during October16-18 at the Chamchuri square, grass elevator hall. During the U.N. events, exhibition of the 14 clubs, UN booth, The Institute of Social Research,Chulalongkorn University and the Paveena hot-line for women and children were invited to be present. Area 6 booth covered awards and scholarships given by Zonta international. History on how Zonta Bangkok 1 was formed from the representative from Zonta international starting with 30 ladies and their vision and deliberations. We also covered Z clubs (Zonta Bangkok 6 and Zonta Phitsanulok sponsored)as well as golden Z clubs (sponsored by Zonta Bangkok 2 and Zonta Phitsanulok)in a separate booth . 1.2Club visits ( Zonta Bangkok 5 Zonta Bangkok 8 Zonta Bangkok 9 and Zonta Rajburi )In the beginning,most of the assistance clubs requested are the Turin Convention experience and Area 6 vision programmes of work . During the 3 months period 6 clubs have carried out their activities that area 6 officers attended including the Chiangmai club installation, totaling 8 visits around Thailand. Planned for October 31st at khunying Jindas ( Khum Tum) restaurant, Chairmen of the biennium projects such as the Planetarium in the park (Zontian Kanchana),Centenial archiving (Zontian Vichitra) etc. will meet to elaborate on their plans. Details from concept of demonstration project “ it’s your choice ” introduced by Auntie Boon will be elaborated as well as announcement for the District 17 advocacy to be held in Manila during November 24 , 2012. INVITATION TO ZONTA INTERNATIONAL 17TH DISTRICT 17 CONFERENCE Hong Kong is a destination that you can come back again and again. Apart from the excitement and vibrancy, Hong Kong offers a diversity of gourmet experiences, never ending shopping, and delightful sightseeing. COME and JOIN us at the Zonta International 17th District 17 Conference at The Mira Hotel in Hong Kong on September 13-15, 2013. The hotel is situated in the heart of Tsimshatsui in Kowloon. During the 17th District Conference, we shall: - Review our accomplishments of this biennium, and conduct business of the District - Elect the District Officers for 2014-2016 - Meet our International Liaison Officer and receive her message on ZI objectives - articipate in the presentation of the District Governor’s awards - Expand on our Zonta knowledge and understanding of major women’s issues - Share your club activities at the Club Page in our Souvenir Program and participate in a photo competition - Make new friends and rejuvenate old relationships. The District Conference in Hong Kong promises to be a memorable experience. Plan your trip early to experience the local cuisines and shopping, as well as excursion tours in the neighboring cities. Early-bird registration benefits will be announced early in 2013. Can’t wait to see you all at the Conference in Hong Kong! WinnieTeoh District 17 Governor 2012-2014 Zonta International Margaret Leung Chairman, Zonta International 17th District 17 Conference Opening UN Day celebration 30 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r Bi e n n i u m 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4 31 Photo Gallery Top Left: DGWinnie making a passionate point 32 Z O N TA G o v e r n or ’s Ne ws le t t e r Top Middle: At the ZI Convention in Torino From left: Daisy P. Arce, Lourdes Almeda Sese, DG Winnie Teoh, Primitiva PerezSison Center: ZC Makati held a UN Folkrum with sponses of the Heads of Mission (SHOM); From left: Linda Panlilio, ZCME UN Chair Olga Severino Martel, ZCME President Cora Tan, Mme. Gracita Sieber (Switzerland), District 17 UN Chair Mitzi Piad, Chona Lopez & Jenny Levistev Top Right: Setting off to see HK’s Geopark in Saikung. Center Right: Visit to the Blue House, HK – a heritage building run by SJS Middle Left: ZC Quezon City celebrated UN Day of the Girl Child with abandoned and neglected children of the children Joy Foundation Inc. donating sacks of rice, school, food supplies and laundry needs. Bottom Right: Zontians try to follow the Carer conductor at the HK SKH service center Bottom Left: Noah’s Ark. Instead of two by two, 9 Zontians came our of the Ark!