60 Years of BPW, 1979

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irst World War had come to an end and in April of 1919 a

: LN : : | ro ‘onal women (many of whom had been re-
= : 4 . ed ring last d. f the war by the Secretary of War, Newton
: E : ‘ {\O ne ; .. Baker) ss forming a Federation of Business and Professional

a Madesin Phillips, Mrs. Jean Norris, Mr

Bros Mrs. Jane Johnston Martin, all of New York City

EDIC hr,
N D\ leline Zachert of Roi r hese women met at the
nee i or! to draw up permanent plans f
: ag US all tence many organizations of bu:
: on in a A ae n “like Topsy” but were not
This erat astemerrgolene® CMe | use. It was due to the vision
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God On 188 ON WON fall : : e citi the nucleus for that first meeting rep
This ve ous ite S ott oy y widely divergent tastes and talents. All were willing to co-
ae jeies v8.


Our
Original
Constitution...

The original constitution was short and to the pomt:

“OBJECTS:”

1. To unite-organizations of Business and Professional Women in order
to come to a better knowledge and understanding of their conditions
and needs in different sections of the State.

. To secure more equitable treatment and just recognition for women
in business and the professions,

. To gather and distribute information relative to vocational oppor-
tunities and to bring about a greater solidarity of feeling among
women throughout the State.

The following organizations were present:

Business and Professional Women’s Club of Brooklyn

Filing Association of New York

Newburgh Women’s City Club

New York Industrial Nurses’ Club

League of Advertising Women of New York City

Business and Professional Women’s Club, Niagara Falls

Rochester Business Women’s Club

Fellowship Club, Buffalo, New York

Wall Street Women’s Club, New York

New York League of Business. and Professional Women

Association of Personnel Workers, New York

Home Economics Association, Greater New York

Home Economics Elementary Schools, Brooklyn

Since the impetus for the foundation of the National Federation of
Business and Professional Women’s Clubs stemmed from New York City
it was natural that the New York State Federation came into being as an
immediate outcome of that first historic meeting. Miss Adeline Zachert,
a librarian from Rochester, New York, was elected President but resigned
during the first year of her term of office to take a position in the Virgin
Islands. Judge Jean Norris of New York City was then appointed to the
Presidency.

In the early days it was possible for individuals, who were engaged
in either a business or a profession to become members of the New York
State Federation as well as for organized clubs to do so. The dues were
nominal:

. “Each club belonging to the Association shall pay annual dues of
$2.50 for club of fifty members or less, and 50¢ for every additional
one hundred members up to a maximum of $10.00.

. “Individual members shall pay $2.50 a year.”

on

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Rg EE SESS

1919 1920

During the years 1919-1921, when the first recorded minutes are on
file, the records are vague, consisting mostly of penciled notes on yellow-
ing paper. The National Federation had its first Convention in July 1919
in St. Louis with Dr. Lena Madesin Phillips presiding, and in May 1920
the New York State Federation met at the Hotel Pennsylvania, New York
City, for its first Convention. The following clubs formed the Federation
in those early days:

Association of Personnel Workers, Brooklyn; Brooklyn Bar Associ:
ation*; Central Branch Business Women’s Club, New York City; Friend-
ship Block, Buffalo; Filing Association, New York City; Home Economics
Association, Greater New York; Home Economics Elementary Schools,
Brooklyn; League of Advertising Women, New York City; Newburgh
Women’s City Club; New York City Women Lawyers; New York League;
New York State Industrial Nurses’ Association; Niagara Falls Business
Women’s Club; The Woman Pays Club, New York City; Rochester Busi-
ness and Professional Women’s Club; Westchester County Business and
Professional Women’s Club, Tarrytown; Women’s Civil Service League of
United States,

*(Note that the minutes contain this Organization so named. It is to be
presumed that it was a “Women’s Bar Assoc.,” for to the best of our”
knowledge, women were not permitted membership in a Bar Association
at that time.)

1921

The Second Annual Convention was held at the Hotel Pennsylvania
in New York City on May 2 with the women of the Wall Street Women’s
Club as hostesses at the banquet, The meeting was called to order by the
President, Judge Jean Norris at 10:30 A. M.

There were 26 registered delegates. The dues were as follows: “25¢ per
member up to 100 members and clubs over 100—20¢ per member.”

The New York State Federation found it difficult to conform to the
National requirements that all members of a club be members of the
National Federation and therefore did not have any elected Delegates to
the National Convention in Cleveland. ... The New York League raised
$506.00 for the Madame Curie Radium Fund and the State Federation
sponsored “The Chautauqua Press Home Reading Course,” whose slogan
read: “Don’t read at random. Read twenty minutes per day.” . . . Forty
public schools in the City of New York were inspected and the membership
was shocked at the report of their condition, It was suggested that the
Federation incorporate under the Membership Corporation Law of New
York State, The banquet was attended by 202 persons and the State went
into the red by some $118.00, There were 15 clubs in the State Federation
and no mention of total membership.


1922

In April of 1922 the New York Federation received a communication
from the National Federation, signed by Lena Madesin Phillips, who was
then the National Executive Secretary, which read in part—‘‘the National
Federation has greatly appreciated the splendid cooperation which clubs
have given in meeting the increased dues of this year. We have thus been
able to place your organization upon a much more stable and dignified
basis and believe that the future. is indeed full of promise.”

The New York State Federation had been recognized.

The Third Annual Convention was held in the Hotel Pennsylvania,
New York City, on Saturday, May 27. In presenting the slate of officers
the Chairman reported: “There was great difficulty in persuading candi-
dates to allow their names to be used and no conditions have been imposed
upon them.” However, a full slate of officers was presented and the follow-

ing elected:

In the outgoing President's report, she stated that there had been
thirty-two Executive Board Meetings during the year... . Three issues of
“Federation Notes.” (There were no copies in the file)... . Three new

Clubs—Westchester, Hornell and Batavia and there was a balance of
$105.00 in the treasury. There was discussion on the floor concerning the
matter of Accident Insurance for men. It was voted that “It must be
equalized and made available to women or women would have to die to
be recompensed for injury.”

In October of 1922 the exciting invitation arrived to hold the Fourth
Annual Convention in Rochester: “After a general discussion in which the
interest of the upstate clubs and the ‘possibility of sending a delegation
from New York City were brought out, the motion to accept the invitation
was carried, It is safe to say that $40.00 will cover fare and Convention.”
The minutes contained the first mention of coordinated newspaper pub-
licity. Membership was the chief topic and ‘one report mentioned the dif-
ficulty of reaching one upstate locality as: “It has only a general store and
a railroad station.”

1923

In lilac time all roads led to Rochester and the Fourth Annual Con-
vention.

The Program Committee Chairman, Miss Ida Mason, had prepared
a printed sheet of events... . Delegates from seven Clubs gave reports, as
well as the Officers and Board Members. Miss Adeline Zachert was the
banquet speaker and Miss Helen Curtis (Smith) sang the “Golden Key.”
A report was made on the study of the possibility of a National Head-
quarters in Washington, D. C. President, Mrs. Kelley, told of her trip
through the wilds of upper New York State which produced no new clubs
but “Several rare political stories. . . . Finances are sadly depleted, with
a drought in New York State the sum total is extremely low indeed and

1923
we need financial rains.” She announced at the close of the business session,
“Miss Orel Adams will meet all delegates not familiar with the location
of the banquet hall and escort them on the trolley car.”

The first Working Conference was held at the Clubhouse of the
New York League of New York City on November 3, Emphasis was placed
upon women being intelligent in regard to government and not emotional.
A first Legislative Chairman for each Club was suggested. National dues
were to be used to pay for copies of the “Independent Woman.” Upstate
was to form an Advisory Council which was to meet on the same dates as
the meeting of the Executive Board in New York City, Membership Chair-
man urged that Clubs “replace chronic kickers with workers.” For the
first time National Charters were given to individual Clubs.

Membership—M: hip—Membership- ‘al Clubs had dropped
out . . . lists and lists were compiled but actually there were but six Clubs
now active in the Federation with a total of 578 members. The Federation
was having difficulty stabilizing.

1924

In January of this year there was grave concern over the dwindling
membership in the Federation. National dues had been raised to $1.00
inclusive of a subscription to “The Independent Woman.” Nationally there
were 525 Clubs with a total membership of 35,000, However, in New York
State the Membership Chairman reported “Some plan must be devised
whereby the ends of this large State can he brought together. . . . Individual
Clubs are doing good work, each in its own corner, but working in the dark
without personal contacts it is easy to stumble into a veritable hornet’s nest
with disastrous results.” Actually the existing “hornet’s nest” seemed to
be that there were only six clubs remaining faithful.

The Fifth Annual Convention was held in Tarrytown with the Na-
tional Treasurer as the banquet speaker. This was done with a purpose,
for the great hue and cry was over the National Dues and what New York
State received for its membership in National. There had been talk of with-
drawing so that “as a separate body a more constructive job could be
done.” Thirteen Delegates and eight Alternates were registered. All Reso-
lutions presented by Miss Helen Curtis of the Rochester Club were carried.
In brief, they allowed individual Clubs to affiliate with State Federations
for two years before joining National; and secondly, they allowed those
clubs affiliated with both State and National to have full voting power at
National Conventions irrespective of other Clubs in the State. The Federa-
tion was beginning to have growing pains,

In September, they were involved in a study of the National and State
By-laws with ways and means of coordinating them. One new Club, Con-
ference Club of New York City, was added. Club Presidents were invited to
“sit in on the Executive Board Meetings.” There was lengthy discussion on
the changing of the name of the “Independent Woman’ to a more repre-
sentative name.


1925

Again in January we find that MEMBERSHIP is THE topic under
scrutiny. The new Membership Chairman, Jessie Lee Hall made a system-
atic attempt to pull things together. An alphabetical and geographical list
of State Membership was made, application blanks were printed and a
Committee began to spread out over the State telling the story of B.P.W.
An article under the title of “The Human vs. the Business Side of the
New York State Officers” appeared in “The Independent Woman.” ... A
State Banner was purchased for $40.00. . Convention cards for Dele-
gates to Conventions were supplied and a motion was passed to “charge
a registration fee of $2.00 for both Delegates and Alternates, said money
to be divided equally between the hostess Club and the State Federation
Treasury.”

April 7, Federation Day, was celebrated by all Clubs in order to pro-
mote membership. The expenses to State Convention of the State Record-
ing Secretary were to be paid. The Program was to include for the first
time Round Table Discussions designed to stress membership and assist-
ance to both women and younger girls engaged in business and the pro-
fessions.

At the Convention in May, at Niagara Falls, the President expressed
the hope that “Scholarship shall be a rotating loan or fund or the giving
outright of financial assistance to a young woman or girl to enable her
to properly fit herself to take her place in the business world.” And thus
the State Scholarship Fund was born. The proposed Resolution in sup-
port of the enacting of the new Child Labor Law lost by one vote... . The
‘Treasurer reported that “our income for the year does not equal our
expenses.” It was tough going in those early days and quite regularly the
members had to dig down into their own pockets to pay the bills. It is
also interesting to note at this point that the Exécutive Board Meetings
were held EACH MONTH in New York City as well as several held in
Upstate New York.

1926

In March of 1926 an Executive Board Meeting was held in Buffalo,
and the Buffalo Club was accepted into membership with twenty-five
members. Each member of the Federation was “furnished with a mite box
into which they can drop pennies and dimes to raise money for the
Women’s Exhibit.”

The Seventh Annual Convention was held in Brooklyn and the first
order of business was to amend the By-laws so that the Treasurer would
be the only Officer who could serve more than two consecutive terms. The
voting at this time was by the means of the Secretary casting one vote for
the proposed slate of Officers when read, Two important resolutions were
passed:

1. “That Lena Madesin Phillips be considered as a candidate for

the National Presidency.

2. “That National Conventions be held every two years beginning in

1928.”

1926

An Ethics Committee had been appointed and

“To be fair and conscientious in our work

To give value for value received

Be fair minded

Tell the truth

Be honest.”

In other words, “to be a sportsman and play the game.”

The Treasurer, Grace LeGendre suggested that we must “build on a
sounder basis and that the dues should be raised from 25 to 50¢ per
member.” This was carried. Junior memberships were discussed and the
motion passed “that clubs do something for the woman who has been
forced into business through changed living conditions.” For the first time
the New York Federation was “an articulate and integral part of the Na-
tional Convention in Portland, Maine, having 47 Delegates and Alternates
present.”

In her report on the exhibit of women’s arts and industries, Helen
Curtis Smith said in.‘part—“There were women who had done unusual
things that even a man would not have thought of, and they are making
such progress that members of the sterner sex are now their pupils.” Due
to the depleted treasury and a proposed $2,000 budget it was suggested
that each club be assessed $2.00: per member and that a cash prize of $100
be given to the first Club to reach its quota. This was not kindly received.
The Publicity Chairman was to receive $40 for her services.

1927

In the minutes of these early years one finds constant mention of
rummage sales—penny auctions—bake sales—candy sales, etc., all the
known ways and means of reimbursing the strained treasury. Contribu-
tions from both Clubs and individuals were numerous if not sizable and
if it had not been for this generosity the Federation would have literally
“starved to death.” Now, for the first time, we find mention of a State
Program Chairman to be appointed as “a permanent Chairman for two
years to plan a constructive program for the State which could be followed
by the Clubs and so eliminate the loss of time and break in plans caused
by getting new machinery in motion.” An Interstate Meeting was held with
an attendance of 107 with 28 clubs represented. This was a new venture
in Federation life and most successful.

The Eighth Annual Convention in Saratoga Springs was notable in
that there was no federated club there at the time of the meeting. (Sara-
toga came into the Federation in 1928.) There were eleven Officers, thirteen
Delegates, and four Alternates present. An attempt was made to have each
Club pay 50¢ per capita, dues and to make local Club Presidents members
of the Board, Both lost. Mount Vernon and Schenectady Clubs received
their Charters from the National President, Lena Madesin Phillips. The
report of the Membership Chairman, Helen Curtis Smith, was most com-
pleve and showed a rise in total membership to 794 members with nine
clubs. A Membership Trophy for the greatest increase in membership was
awarded to Brooklyn. The finances were in better shape with the selling of
space for the Exposition of Women’s Arts and Industries successful and
seeming to point the way to more substantial income.

p d the following:


ne

1927

A course in Parliamentary Law was organized which included the
pledge to “read the daily paper of your city or town.” The question of
the advisability of the National Federation discontinuing membership in
the Women’s Joint Congressional Committee brought down the house.
Twenty-two organizations had already withdrawn because of the socialistic
policies of the Committee. . . . Therefore the following resolution went to
the National Federation: “The New York State Federation of Business &
Professional Women’s Clubs strongly opposes the policy of the Women’s
Joint Gongressional Committee and recommends that the National Federa-
tion give the subject of its withdrawal its serious consideration.” The insti-
gation of the Birthday Pledges from clubs netted $128.00. The Utica club
federated in September 1927.

There was a great deal of discussion regarding Field Work for member-
ship increase, and some money was allocated from National for this pur-
pose. The talk ran high in approval of a State Bulletin but the finances
would not allow even the $35.00 suggested as necessary.

1928

In January of 1928 the Interstate Meeting was growing in importance
—letters came from Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Kentucky,
Minnesota, Ohio, and New Jersey with a suggested list of topics to be
discussed. The National By-laws needed revising for closer co-relation
between local, state and national policies. Nominations for National office
should be made by States... . How to equalize the National and State
Budgets. . . . The place and functions of “The Independent Woman” in
the Federation. The grass roots were making themselves heard.

Buffalo was Hostess for the Ninth Annual Convention. The committee:
reports were lengthy and contained many things of interest. The Health
ce! ittee distributed pamphlets on “R itation.” The Research Chair-
man wished “to evolve a plan to secure statistics as to the attitudes toward
the married woman working, and to prepare a card catalog of members.”
Program Chairman urged that “considerable attention to be given to the
problems of the older woman in business.” An International Relations
Chairman was proposed by Grace LeGendre and the first resolution dealt
with a recommendation to endorse the “Treaty to Outlaw War.” Education
Committee felt: “All members should make it their duty to study political
questions of the day. Emphasize the importance of a High School Education

‘or every girl.” Membership Committee used the Regional System with
$100.00 ‘allocated for expenses for each Region and reported progress in
several cities.” Saturday’s Children of New York City joined the Federati

your desire to renew conversation concerning entry of the United States
into the World Court.”

There were now eleven clubs with 1071 membership total. . . . Things
were definitely looking up.

1929

More material came to the State from the National office and copies
of By-law Amendments etc. were discussed at each monthly club meeting.
The State By-laws received a thorough over-hauling with duty statements
for Board Members and necessary suggestions added to the scant informa-
tion of former years. The State was now to bear the expense of a stenog-
rapher to take the minutes of the Tenth Annual Convention to be held
in Utica, There was a paid membership of 908 in April of that year and
a balance in the treasury of $319.00 with $220.00 in the Special Fund. The
program was to consist roughly of the business session followed by a
Round Table to consider “Equal Pay for Equal Work.” . . . “Financial Suc-
cess Through Business.” . . . “Spiritual Success Through Business.” . . .
“Providing for Old Age.” The first announcement brought cheers from
the twenty-two Delegates . . . eight Alternates . . . thirteen Board members
and thirty-four Guests, The Business and Professional Women’s Clubs of
New York State were Incorporated and the Charter was a gift from the out-
going President, Ella Lawrence. Corning Club was added to the roster as
the last federated club to be admitted. A resolution was passed urging the
creation of a Federal Department of Education with a Secretary with Cabi-
net status. The one day Convention had now proven to be “too much of
a rush” and so a motion was made to extend the time to two days. This
was passed by a vote of 33 to 4. The Brooklyn Club won both the Member-
ship Award and the Scrap Book Contest. Mrs. Helen Curtis Smith was
elected Delegate to the National Convention at Mackinac Island and it
was decided that events in the life of Susan B, Anthony be used as New
York State’s part in the Pageant. New York State donated $100.00 to the
Lena Madesin Phillips Building Fund which was paid out of the receipts
of the Birthday Fund, Letters and maps dividing New York State into
14 Districts were presented for s i the Membership Chai
Mrs. Brockway. The first mention of work among foreign women was made
by the International Relations Chairman to the effect that: “we should do
some work in our clubs with foreign women and either invite them to join
our clubs or assist them in starting clubs of their own.” (This marks the
first actual break in the general isolationist views of the membership.)
ly the Federation sent Delegates to Washington to the “Cause

Requests were made for a State Song and a prize was set up to be given at
the next Convention.

New York State had little luck in presenting the proposed By-law
Amendments at the National Convention in New Orleans but did come
home with the National Emblem Trophy.

The Clubs were requested to send postal cards on the number of
members voting and a prize was offered to the Club having the first 100%
total reported. Copies of Annual Reports should be furnished by each
Chairman in sufficient number for distribution during the Convention,
Publicity posters were to be prepared 22x 18 inches giving information
on local club activities during the year. A telegram was sent to President
Coolidge “expressing deep satisfaction that you have so clearly announced

and Cure of War Conference.” The Geneva Club was given membership in
the Federation. There was talk of a Press Luncheon to be held at the next
Convention and again the State Bulletin reared its head but was still

deemed impossible.
1930

January 1930 showed 810 paid members. At the Executive Committee
Meeting in Mt. Vernon, the Finance Chairman reported “the State organ-
ization was living within the prepared budget.” The alert Executive Com-
mittee protested what they termed “a false advertising statement” appear-


————EEEEE

1930

ing in the Independent Woman. Miss Kathryn H. Starbuck was named to
represent New York State in Geneva, Switzerland, August 25-26, where the
National Federation was in the process of forming an International Federa-
tion with Dr. Lena Madesin Phillips as the first International President. In
March it was voted to send out a four-page bulletin to cost $66.40 for 1500
copies.

P The Eleventh Annual Convention and actually the first two-day Con-
vention, was held in the Hotel Victoria in New York City, with 20 Executive
Board members, 26 Delegates and 42 Alternates and guests in attendance.
A unified program was suggested asking local clubs to feature the same
topics each month as outlined by the State Program Chairman. The occupa-
tional round-tables discussed such “lady-like” topics as “Hotel and Tea
Room Management . . . Vocational Opportunities for Older Women . . .
Investments and Insurance.” The State began to operate on the District
Plan of nine Districts to correspond with the already established Congres-
sional Districts but the “District Chairmen shall be the two Vice-Presidents
and seven Directors so that the local District might not be strengthened
at the expense of the State organization.” The regular Executive Board
meetings were to be held during the months of September and January
rather than every.month as currently established. The Annual Convention
was to be held in May. One Resolution in particular was indicative of the
times. “To support the Naval Treaty and enjoin a general pact for the
renunciation of war,” and one phrase in a second resolution seems different
in light of today’s thinking—“‘One of the gravest problems involving the
economic progress of employed women is the difficulty of obtaining and
retaining a -position after the age of FORTY.” .. .

Mt. Vernon won both the Membership and Emblem Trophies and
Rochester received a plaque for the sponsoring of the 13th Club at Geneva.
The 14th, that of Syracuse, was chartered in September. Also the Executive
Committee was now empowered to vote by mail between regular meetings
on the acceptance of new clubs and the registration fee for Conventions
was raised from $1,00 to $3.00. Also, “exciting invitations were received to
attend the First Northeast Regional Conference to be held in Atlantic

| 1931

At the Twelfth Annual Convention held in Schenectady, the out-going
President, Helen Curtis Smith reported on her two years as follows:

“It was my privilege to attend the National Board of Directors Meet-
ing of the National Federation in Chicago. .. . The quiet dignity of the
Chicago sessions, the intensely interesting business transacted during those
days and the attendance from representatives from all parts of the United
States, were to me revelations of our progress and strength.” . . . In New
York State Mrs. Smith had traveled 5600 miles and closed her year with
a membership of 1055 in 17 clubs . . . (Yonkers and Medina chartered
1931). The first Round Table on “Influence of Radio on American Life
and Thought” was conducted. A special committee was appointed to study
“The Age Factor of Women” but after considerable discussion it was wisely
decided to stress, not the “age factor,” but, the “employment of women.”
There were 101 in attendance and they were treated to a “first” ...a
demonstration of Television at the General Electric Plant. Several mem-
bers, including the President, took part in it. Publicity seemed to be com-
ing into its own here for a Poster Contest was organized and $10.00

1931

allocated as a prize. New York State was asked to be hostess for the Second
Regional Conference and Helen Curtis Smith was named Regional Di-
rector. The membership was becoming aware of the National scope of the
program as transfers in membership from one State to another were per-
missable. Niagara Falls had organized a club in Niagara Falls, Ontario,
Canada and our wings were beginning to spread. End by Reso-
lution of three World Court protocols and an economic study of the place
“women play in the business life of their respective communities” became
a part of the program. New York was still insistant that the National
Federation give greater cooperation to the States and a Committee was
apppointed, chairmaned by Kathryn Starbuck, to present a resolution
“with regard to a proper allocation of dues from State to National.” This
Convention should have been listed as “the Singing Convention” for the
program shows musical entertainment at every luncheon and dinner meet-
ing. Sticking true to principle the Schenectady B.P.W. Glee Club and
Mis Kitty Meinhold and her Capitol Orchestra were in a continual lime-
ight.

1932

The Thirteenth Annual Convention was a lucky one for the New York
State Federation due to this notation in the minutes of the Pre-Convention
Board Meeting at the Hotel Bevan, Larchmont, New York—Thursday eve-
ning May 19th:

“Miss Milligan introduced Mrs. Harry Harvey Thomas, the Parlia-
mentarian for the Convention.” And thereby the State Federation was
introduced to twenty-seven years association with a woman keen of mind,
kind of heart and decisive in action. She has taught many of us many
things but none so fine as that exemplified by her own personal loyalty to
the character of women. Mrs. Pinkney Glantzberg reported on a trip to
Washington (which incidentally cost but $23.28) where she represented
the New York State Federation as ‘a member of a Deputation to the Secre-
tary of State. This deputation was concerned with “Providing that the
Code of Law to be administered by the World Court shall not contain in-
equalities based on sex.” Two new clubs were added, New Rochelle and
Jamaica, making a total of 18 with 1220 members. Miss Amelia Earhart
who was to have been a luncheon guest made a surprise solo flight across
the ocean and had just landed in Ireland. The President’s report was given
in the form of rather “leading questions” such as: “Shall we definitely and

pi ly ize a special obligation to the gover 1t-minded in
our home cities, our home countries and our State?” Following election
of officers, etc., it had been customary to destroy all ballots and it was so
moved. Mrs. Thomas, the Parliamentarian ruled that they must be kept
for thirty days and then destroyed, thus the New York State Federation
was firmly brought into line with the proper procedure. For the first time
the expenses of the New York State President were paid to Regional
Conference. There were 60 Delegates and 29 Alternates present. One News
Letter was published in October although the minutes carried the motion
that three editions be sent out. These were indeed the “good old days” for
one of the Executive Board Meetings was held aboard a member's yacht.


1933

Mrs. Harry Harvey Thomas opened the 1933 New York State Con-
vention at the Baron Steuben Hotel in Corning with these words: “The
measure of a life is determined by the number of points at which we are
alive.” It was good advice and history bears out the words were heeded
for the Federation HAS been alive at many points, . . , The National
Federation President, Mrs. Geline McDonald was greeted by an original
song and she in turn sung her response. There was a total of 67 eligible
voters present. At the luncheon the Corning Club presented a song written
by Billy Byrne which was then voted the official New York State Song.

Tt was voted to print new By-laws and distribute them to the Clubs.
At this time charters were presented to three new Clubs: Bath, Chautauqua
and Jamestown. In the general discussion the old question of the National
Federation vs. that of the State was brought up with two resulting sug-
gestions passed by motion.

1. “That a recommendation be sent to the Special Finance Committee
that National dues be reallocated in order that the State Organiza-
tion shall have power over the expenditures of a greater proportion
for their own programming.”

2. “That National Headquarters should be moved out of New York
City.’

The President’s report indicated that the State membership had in-
creased from 1221 to 1275 with a club increase from 18 to 23. “The B.P,.W.
is different from a literary, dramatic or social club and will be serviceable
and enjoyable if in our business and pr ional posts we individuall
have prestige so far as we stand on terra firma, solid rocks of facts and
serviceable assets. . .. We must grow by meeting a need.” Thus we talked
in 1933, Corning had started the educational ball rolling by reporting
prizes of $5.00 each to three High school students, Niagara Falls at this
time had $3,000.00 outstanding in loans’ and currently was paying a High
school girl’s carfare. . . . Saratoga Springs annually presented $100.00 for
Nurses Training. The study for the year at the local level was labor legis-
lation as it affected women and unemployment insurance.

In September membership applications were received from Bronxville
and Oswego, voted upon and accepted into the Federation. It was sug-
gested that each local club have a Membership Tea on a Sunday after-
noon to stimulate interest in membership. The total budget for New York
State had increased considerably: Income, $3,860; Disbursements, the
SAME, Each standing committee was allocated $5.00 excepting the Public
Relations and Nominating Committees which were given $10.00, and the
Publicity Committee $15.00. The National poster for National Business
Woman’s Week carried this slogan—“55,000 White Collar Women Open
Business Woman’s Week.”

1934

All things run in cycles and 1934 seemed to be a turning point for
the State Federation—as though the child had come to maturity. In the
records we find the first complete membership report (this is not to say
that others were not made . . . they are just not available). The District
System set up in 1930 was beginning to function satisfactorily. For the first
recorded time, attendance at the 15th Annual Convention in Rochester

1934

broke the century barrier with 199—90 of them Delegates and Alternates.
Letters from the National Federation reflect “the forward look”; and the
National Executive Secretary, Emily Kneubuhl writes in part: “We have
never before been at a place in our history when all of us working together.
could accomplish so much . . . the world has need of its women and modern
women will be acknowledged and recognized by 1940.” President Kathryn
Starbuck in her report outlines the trend of the times as she writes: “To
Grace LeGendre, the best Treasurer in the world, not accepting Alexander
Hamilton.” (There was a balance in the treasury of over $400 after ex-
penditures of $3,767.) “There exists a fine spirit of cooperation, an element
which has drawn us all together and made us feel that we belong to a
State. The Official State News Letter has been in part responsible for
this.” ($400 was allocated for this purpose with requests that each club
support it with an advertisement. Furthermore no member was to receive
a copy if her dues were not paid by November tst.)

For the year ahead Miss Starbuck recommended; “Next year we
should concern ourselves with our responsibility toward others: 1. Public
School Education faces a crisis (2000 rural schools in 24 States closed
for lack of funds), We must stir ourselves and protest a program that is
neither just nor true economy. . . . Organize vocational conferences for
High School children. . . . Study the social implications of the economic
problems in our ities with special reference to women workers. . . «
Study ways and means to give more than lip service to Equal Pay for Equal
Work. . .. Organize study groups to consider the relation ‘of the United
States to World Peace.”

The first Membership Cup, awarded for percentage increase in mem-
bership was given by Kathryn Starbuck and won by Schenectady. Recom-
mendations made went winging to the National office suggesting that
procedures be set up to seek out “qualified women for public office.” New
York State was in favor of “The National Ten Year Plan” and women
were urged to serve on juries if the law passed.

Rochester contributed $50 in memory of Mable Winters to start an
Educational Fund, the State added $28 and Grace LeGendre $22 and
thus the Mable Winters Scholarship Fund was born. The Research Com-
mittee under the Chairmanship of Dorothy Genzlinger of Yonkers made
the following r dation: “That our organizati ‘o on record as
endorsing the policy of honest dealing in business by all those engaged
therein; that we obtain for women greater opportunities to secure the neces-
sary training and experience to equip them to take their places as leaders
in business and in politics where their honest conduct and judgment, in
times of prosperity as well as during a depression will prove sound and not
wanting.” Albany, Albion, Inkowa, Buffalo, Hornell, Norwich, New Ro-
chelle, Danville and TSA joined the Federation, making the grand total
of 28 clubs with 1546 members.

1935

This year began on a high note showing a gain of 46% in total member-
ship and 77% gain in new clubs with Cortland, Ciohdes, Elmita, Johnstown
and Poughkeepsie added to the Federation. The Sixteenth Annual Con-
vention was held at Saratoga Springs with an amazing increase in attend-
ance. . Sixteen: Board Members, 88 Delegates, 35 Alternates and 104
Guests making a grand total of 243.


a a a. (ee

935

A Publicity Breakfast was held with reporters from the New York
Times and Herald Tribune present. It was recommended that State Pub-
licity be concentrated in one section of the State with several Chairmen
and Vice-Chairmen to handle all types of publicity, including the News
Letter. $500 was put in the budget, $200 of which should come from local
clubs in the following manner: Clubs of 100 members $10, 75 members
$7.50, 50 members $5 and less than 50 members $3. Membership was to
be stressed and President Starbuck in her report suggested that the goal
be set at 2500 members. Each club should endeavor to “bring in another
live club,” but she warned “Business Women outnumber the Professional
Women 2 to 1.” . . . Establish study clubs to determine the reason why

of this numerical difference, always remembering that quality of member-

this club job require? What experience? What personality? Then put in
the right woman for the job—not your friends.” She further recommended
that “the State should concentrate on two major problems:

1. A Vocational Guidance Counselor in every High School to help
secure adequate training for young girls to prepare them for the
world of today.

2. Conduct an aggressi against ination toward

women in the Business and Professional World =

District Directors were instructed to Visit; each club in theit District
at least twice a year, preferably at a Board Meeting. . he Mable
Winters Scholarship Fund was set up as a revolving loan, ‘he 2 amount on.
Joan not to exceed $100 to any one student, ‘There: should ‘be a closer rela-
tionship between the State and National Federations and at least one meet-
ing a year should be devoted to discussions and speakers on this topic. Inter-
club activity had progressed over the years from a single meeting in a
year to a program of cooperation throughout the year. The reports of Club
Presidents had become so lengthy that they were summarized for the first
time and the time thus saved used for more Round-Table Discussions.

The Health Chairman recommended: “That health standards for
Business and Professional Women should be stressed as well as instruction
on the mental state and instruction relative to food.

The President’s report was sent to all clubs and we cannot refrain here
from stating that it is as timely today (1960) as it was when written. The
Convention closed on this amusing note: “Following the day’s discussion
a tour of the Saratoga Battlefield was conducted.”

1936

‘The January Board Meeting held in Brooklyn contained much of gen-
eral interest. . . . International Relations Committee Chairman, Helen
Havener, suggested a four-fold policy for the coming year (some of which
was turned down later at Convention):

1. A full study of changing phases of world policy as well as the funda-
mental questions of former years.

2. Cooperation with other peace organizations, without which there
can be no effective effort to mould community opinion in behalf
of world peace.

1936

3. Membership in the International Federation of B.P.W.
4. Support of legislation which “tends to cement friendly relation-
ships among all nations of the world.”

Miss Kathryn Starbuck, National International Relatiotis Chairman
spoke to these recommendations: “It is not enough to keep this country
out of war; we also have a responsibility to cooperate with nations of the
world in some way to keep war out of the world.”

An active Legislative Committee headed by Mrs. Miriam Schindler
reported on: Social Security Act, Child Labor Amendment, County govern-
ment, Women Jury Bills, Equal Rights Amendment, Hairdressers Bill, the
Employment Agency Bill, The discussions were lively and well recorded,

The 17th Annual Convention was held in Jamestown with 88 voting
members present (total attendance not recorded). The President’s report
contained a plea for a raise in dues to carry on the work of the Federation
through a central office of some sort. “We are doing the work for 39 clubs
with the same equipment we used for 7.” A double slate was presented for
most of the officers and directors. The President was voted $50 for travel-
ing expenses and two members were appointed to represent us at the Demo-
cratic and Republican Conventions, It was suggested that the Federation
join the Joint Legislative Forum. Great was the jubilation that both Jane
Todd and Doris Byrne had been returned to the State Assembly. Once
again the By-laws required much consideration and a special committee
presented several drastic changes (many of them as we operate today
1960). Notable changes: That the 9 Board Directors become District Di-
rectors to be elected by ballot at the Annual meeting; that the Executive
Board consist of the Officers, Directors and Standing Committee Chair-
men; and only women engaged actively in business or a profession to be
eligible to hold office. Lottie Edwards presented a most comprehensive re-
port on the News Letter and ways and means of fina eg it—suggesting
stencils and other b like methods. Ho’ r, the C voted
to continue it in the same way through the Publicity Committee, ‘financed
as best they could.” The Education Committee urged each local club “to
sponsor a meeting devoted to broaden themselves.” A booth was sponsored
at the State Fair and the Second Annual Dinner to Honor Women of
Achievement was a great success. Only one club, Insurance Women of
New York had 100% dues paid by September. Kathryn Starbuck’s song
was voted the State Song. And, as indicative of the times, a Resolution
was passed to urge Congress to include a clause against the huge appropri-
ations for military and naval armament with a plank to definitely commit
the United States to a peace policy. Membership—2,036; New Clubs: In-
surance Women’s Group of New York, Ossining, Rye and Staten Island.

1937

The records grow long and more accurate as the Federation grows
in size and stature .. . now 2168 members in 37 clubs in New York State.
Of the 37 clubs, 25 now belong to the International Federation. By Janu-
ary of 1937, 91% of the members had paid their dues. In the three years
of its existence, 16 clubs had contributed to the State Scholarship Fund and
5 students had received loans. The News Letter had become a 24 page
pamphlet containing advertising with sufficient money in the budget for
9 issues. Addressograph plates had been purchased and reportedly the


<7 mmm ummm maaammmmas I a alti I a a

1937

saving in mailing costs was from the former $70 an issue to $7. Two new
clubs were added—Queens and Tarrytown,

The 18th Annual Convention was held in Syracuse with 101 voting

bers and a total registration of 225. The President recommended at

least two District Meetings a year; the consideration of Farm Women as
eligible for membership; study of the New York State Constitution for
issues to present to the 1938 Constitutional Convention and the raising of
the State Federation dues from 50¢ to $1.00 (the latter was passed by a
vote of 67 to 13 and became effective May, 1938). The Education Com-
mittee presented a new idea in that each local club should attempt to
Sh it to its own ity the thing of greatest significance and
that local scholarships should be stressed.” ‘There was discussion as to the
relationship of the local club members to the State Adult Education De-
partment and the decision was to recognize that as an individual affair. The
Minimum Wage Law required serious consideration. In the past no stand
had been taken either for or against the principle of minimum wage but
the showdown was: “That we be opposed to any bill which is discrimina-
tory against women.” A legislative panel was a part of the Friday night
entertainment. Here it was brought out that the Permissive-Juror Bill was
passed rather than the Mandatory because of the passive attitude of
women. Whereupon it was recommended that local clubs add jury duty
training courses for women to their program content. A vital point was
cleared in regard to the “service angle” as follows: “That we' definitely
establish ourselves in the minds of the citizens of our community as a club
that is always ready and willing to serve the community. And, further to
establish this fact through service and secure the proper publicity and
recognition through newspapers that there may be no further doubt con-
cerning this question.”

Five “Women of Achievement” were honored at the banquet.

It was in September 1937 that the first short-wave broadcast over WGY
in Schenectady was sent to a B.P.W. Club in Melbourne, Australia. Miss
Earline White, National Federation President, guest of the Schenectady
Club spoke with Madam Marita, President of the Australia Federation.

1938

The January Board Meeting held in Albany in 1938 was pleased to
receive the following telegram: “Jane Todd has been appointed first of
her sex Caucus Committee Chairman in the 161 years of the New York
Legislature.” A letter of congratulation went directly to Miss Todd. The
Constitutional Forums were being well received in several Districts. The
Schools for Jurors were being conducted in cooperation with the League
of Women Voters and often by the B.P.W. Clubs exclusively. Since the
Bill was permissive the B.P.W. ‘should “call special attention urging women
to accept jury duty when called.” Therefore leaflets were to. be distributed
at the New York State Fair in September at a cost to the Federation of
about $100. There were 144 present at the 19th Annual Convention in
New York City. The membership of the State Federation totaled 2307
with three new clubs, Binghamton (Triple Cities); Wellsville and White
Plains. Great emphasis was placed on the complete revision of the By-laws,
which were approved and passed, being duly printed in booklet form for
distribution. The President in her report made a strong plea for an Execu-

1938

tive Secretary to assist with the growing volume of work, Accordingly
$500 was put in the budget. The President should have a personal account
of $100 and District Directors $25 each. It was further recommended that
a plank be placed in the New York State Constitution stating that there
be no discrimination against women, Local club dues were to have a
November first deadline and all delinquent members to be dropped at
that time. The Worlds Fair was to be opened in New York and a special
committee had been appointed to work closely with the established Worlds
Fait Committee and to assist with the Careers Tours as suggested by the
joint committees. Miss Alice Gates was appointed Librarian and authorized
*to keep all records and letters and minutes of the State Federation.” The
Resolutions Committee presented, among several, the following: “Be it
resolved that we pay tribute to the memory of Amelia Earhart for her
courage, her spirit of adventure, her loyalty to high ideals and her ad-
vancement of the cause of women.” In July, at the summer home of
Miss Kathryn Starbuck the Board voted to have a twenty year history
written by Miss Irene McGuire (we regret that this document is not in
the files). Cooperation was urged with state groups “fostered by Repub-
lican, Democratic and Labor Party Women to endeavor to get every woman
to vote.”

In September the Board authorized a strong International Relations
Program. Miss Esther Corwin, Program Chairman presented a compre-
hensive report on suggested programs, materials and speakers. The Chair
appointed the first State Safety Chairman.

1939

The balance in the treasury in January 1939 was $1,247.85. Member-
ship was slowly but steadily climbing. . . . Stabilization was important. . . .
The Membership Chairman, Mrs, Edna Capewell recommended: “That
inasmuch as programming is a vital factor in both stabilization and in-
creased membership, that each federation member is a consumer, and that
our 1939-1940 program be based on consumers’ viewpoints.”

The Publicity Committee, Mrs. Marjorie Waldron, Chairman, moved
that: “It would be helpful in publicity work to have a Radio Chairman
under her supervision. . . .” Accordingly the Chair appointed Miss Ruth
Green, Albany, as the first Radio Chairman.

The 20th Annual Convention was held in Albany with the Program
Theme of “The Empire State of Tomorrow.” The National Program was
discussed and a motion carried to the effect:

1. “It be interpreted to meet local needs.

2. “In its setup it indicates adult education methods.

3. “That it indicate possible resource material, such as people, books

and articles,”

The Committee on Redistricting the State had studied long and dili-
gently. The changes voted upon gave the State eleven Districts instead of
nine. Miss Marjorie Smith, Chairman of the 1938-1939 Nominating Com-
mittee presented a plan of qualifications patterned on the National pro-
cedure. It was voted to bond the State Treasurer. In September State
membership had increased by 316 placing New York State in the 8th posi-
tion in the United States in membership (total 2551). The State also ranked
third in new clubs secured with Amsterdam, Newark, Tonawanda and
Wolcott joining the ranks. For the first time “All reports of New York


18

1939

State progress were to be sent to the National Federation to assist New
York State in full credit for programming.” Clubs were authorized to
divide the expenses of the District Director to Conventions. Local Inter-
national Relations Chairmen should be appointed and February should be
observed as International Month. It was felt that clubs had difficulty in
assembling needed reference material so each Club should elect a Librarian
to collect and provide said material for distribution. “Inter-club removal
blanks” were suggested for transfers. In order “to plan a particularly im-

ressive Radio program during the interval of the January Board meeting
$50 was given the Chairman for this purpose.” ‘The financing of conventions
was a knotty problem and a Special Committee was appointed (Chairman
Miss Frances Marlatt) to look after this matter, Saratoga Springs presented
steel files to the State. Study . . . study. . . study seemed to be the order
of the day—from the status of married women in business to the Todd
Youth Bill and the financing of the State Magazine.

1940 ?

It is interesting to note the change in emphasis as the years move on.
It would appear to coincide somewhat with the business or profession of
the President and the members of her Board. Being a lawyer, Miriam
Schindler stressed all types of Legislation and her report at the 21st An-
nual Convention in Buffalo dealt specifically with such problems:

1. “That we cooperate fully with the Womens’ Centennial Congress
organized to contemplate, examine and evaluate women’s advance
in the last hundred years with a view to recommending the trend
future women’s programs should take.

“A thorough study should be made of the New York State Confer-
ence on Democratic Processes.

“That the ‘Big Sister’ Program voted upon at the last Convention
be carried through a Committee Chairmaned by Miss Rita Cowen.
The purpose to train youth for leadership and develop job oppor-
tunities.

“She urged support of Jane ‘Todd's New York State Assembly Bill
to provide mandatory licensing of nurses by July Ist.

. “Organized the State to conduct an unemployment survey particu-
larly as it pertained to our own membership.

“Asked Governor Lehman to appoint a woman to the State Health
Council.”

‘The State Health Chairman, Dr. Mary Sloan made a dramatic plea
for more attention to the health problem saying: “A normal mind in a
normal body should be our slogan. Since the healthy individual is the unit
of a stable world, Health is a benediction.”

The Program Chairman, Miss Esther Corwin suggested “A special
statewide program during Business Woman’s Weck to bring about a unity

Le é . i

eo

DP moe

1940

‘There were two lengthy reports we wish we could reproduce in full.
1. The Education Committee which recognized the need for B.P.W.
to know what the desires and needs of young people in a democracy
really were . . . particularly during a time of upheaval such as the
late thirties and early forties.

The Special Committee on Bank Resolutions which had been func-
tioning for several years under Dorothy Genzlinger’s leadership,
pointed out that women were taxpayers, stockholders and philan-
thropic contributors and well deserved to be on the Boards of Sav-
ings Banks.

One quote seems particularly timely: “Our world today is in the throes
of another great conflict. These upheavals as they occur can generally be
traced to a definite disorder in the economic world. Placing the right to
franchise along with men, in women’s hands only half equips her in the
battle for a better world. I cannot urge too strongly that when given the
opportunity for practical experience, women have the capability of con-
tributing leadership.”

In September of 1910 New York State was selected by the National
Federation as one of the Membership Laboratory states.

1944

The world is feeling the pinch of war and it is reflected in the sug-
gestion of the State President, Esther Corwin at the January Board Meet-
ing: “There is a possibility of employment for older women as hostesses
at army posts,” and by Dr. Kathryn Blyley, Education Chairman who
emphasized the important issue of National Defense and recommended
that “This Board of Directors take appropriate cognizance of the entire
war issue at this meeting.” It had been customary in the past to provide
souvenirs at State Conventions but in February 1941 a check for $150 was
sent to the National President, Dr. Minnie L. Maffett as a contribution
toward Mobile Kitchens for Britain in lieu of the souvenirs.

The 23rd Annual Convention in Elmira boasted several “firsts.” It was
the largest on record to date: 125 delegates, 40 alternates and 137 visitors,
total 302. A complete Convention report including finances was filed and
the first mimeographed book of all Annual Reports appeared.

Esther Corwin felt that the following deserved special mention: “The
New York State Federation has directed every effort toward the creation
and maintenance of federation unity, of which our founders would be
justly proud, coupled with business-like procedures and active participation
by members. . . . By-laws have been printed and Vocational Index and De-
fense files brought up to date... . Having been chosen’as an experimental
state for Laboratory Membership Werk, four new clubs were added, Con-
ference Club of New York City, Glenis Falls, Herkimer and Ithaca.” Esther

“

of purpose and greater in local ies.” State h
totaled 2681 with Watkins Glen and Nassau the new clubs of the year.

The International Relations Committee reported sending $71 worth
of vitamins to the children of Finland. It was voted to defray the expenses
of the Treasurer to Conventions and Board Meetings and the President’s
expense allowance was raised to $200. The Radio Committee reported that
ten clubs had broadcast 175 minutes of air time during the year. The cost
of the State magazine had risen to a gross of $150 per issue and what to
do about it was a serious problem.

d that: “with the adoption of our Federation Program . . .
‘Strengthen Democracy for Defense’ we weigh every issue which arises an

every evént which transpires with reference to our obligation to it and to its
effect on woman’s place in the scheme of things.” Ursula Hubbard, Inter-
national Relations Chairman told of many clubs contributing to local war
relief projects. She asked a few pointed questions: “What effect upon our
communities business. would a totalitarian victory have? What adjustments
in American economic life may have to become permanent if democracies
are to out last totalitarianism groups? What kind of post-war problems will


1941

remain even assuming a Hitler defeat?” They were soul-searching ques-
tions and are certainly indicative of the serious thinking of B.P.W. during
those “fatiguing forties.” Sara Sparks, Membership Chairman reported a
total membership of 2927 in 49 clubs. The Scholarship Fund was slowly
climbing. . . 29 clubs contributed $1404.32 and 14 students had received
assistance. The State Magazine had published 7 issues at a. cost of $155
each, a portion of which expense was carried by advertising so things in
that department were looking up. The Chairman of the newly appointed
State Youth Committee, Rita Cowan presented a suggested program for
local clubs to follow including cooperation with existing agencies, clinics
and personal guidance with both city and rural school students. , '
‘There was a resolution presented to the Convention that women be
drafted as well as men for the Armed Forces but this was handily defeated.

1942

1942 started off with a request from President Esther Corwin to
celebrate the February 15th birthday of Susan B. Anthony. Rochester
had a particular celebration in mind since Susan B, Anthony made pos-
sible co-education at Rochester University. Two reports in the files are of
importance:

1. Legislative Procedures for New York State submitted by the Chair-
man, Marguerite Fisher. This outlined a special committee author-
ized to submit a tentative Legislative Program to the State Conven-
tion each year. Additional items could be added to the tentative
program, in writing, by local clubs in advance of the Convention.
State Nominating Proced the Chai: Esther Jansen in-
cluded detailed duties for all officers and directors,

90 Delegates, 26 Alternates, 19 Board Members and 20 Guests attended
the 23rd Annual Convention in Utica. A combined Glee Club, recruited
from several New York State Clubs with Beryl Lewis from Oswego as the
Leader entertained at all hours of day and night.

The tenor of the business conducted dealt largely with war, economic
difficulties and the attitude of the B.P.W. toward these distressing problems.
Club reports contained page after page of War Relief Work in co-operation
with existing War Relief Agencies. The outgoing President spoke stirringly
of the opportunities to help and pledged that “We preserve the American
way of life with opportunities, freedoms, and liberties secured for us under
the Constitution of the United States of America.” There was question of
transportation to Board Meetings, etc. and a motion passed allowing
members to vote by mail. A list was sent to the Governor of New York
State suggesting the most important ways Business and Professional Women
could help in lines of defense. State Programs were geared to Defense, War
Work, Training for E ies and Public Speaking (selling War Bonds
and Defense Stamps required some knowledge along these lines).

Membership listed 2941 in 55 clubs (Adirondack, Dunkirk-Fredonia,
Forty-Second Street Group, Lockport and Wall Street Group added to the
ever growing list). The Chairman requested “a uniform, democratic mem-
bership policy for all clubs with transfers allowable without payment of
local dues, for the balance of the current year (carried). The Bank Resolu-
tions and Youth Committees were abolished. The Certificate of Incorpora-
tion was amended by inserting the phrase: “To conduct an adult education
program to further the education of business and professional women to

Nn

better enable them to take their full responsibilities. as citizens and to work
together for civic purposes.” (This was done to exempt the Federation
from Income Taxes.)

A 1931 Motion was rescinded regarding the number of clubs in a city,
now allowing more than one club if so desired. President Corwin again made
a plea for a central office. It was voted to spend $200 to “be used to employ
a person for an average of ten hours a week and to purchase a Speed-O-
Print machine for $100. The yearly budget was set at $9,650. A report of
Convention expenses from Schenectady (1931) $1,752 to Elmira (1941)
$2,406 gives a hint as to the growth of the Federation. The Mable Winter
Scholarship Fund was extended to “young women who have completed four
years of High School education and need funds for special courses.” In
September the State Board was entertained for the weekend by Mr, Thomas
J. Watson, Sr., President of the International Business Machines Corp. The
Triple Cities Club was the hostess club.

1943

‘The serious-minded business of the B.P.W. was centered on war ac-
tivities and what might be done to help achieve victory. It was a grim
January and the fact was well brought out by the recommendations pre-
sented by the various State Committee Chairmen: EDUCATION: “That
each Club compile facts on training courses open to women in community
civil service, and for women in war industries . . . that local clubs offer
their services in recruiting women power for industries and the armed serv-
ices.” FINANCE: “That Clubs and States review incomes and expenditures
to effect all possible economies, so that the service of business and pro-
fessional women, as expressed through the Federation’s War Program, may
constitute a contribution of value to the war effort.”

At the Twenty-Fourth Annual Convention at the Lake Placid Club,
Lake Placid the trend toward service and economy continued. The Nomi-
nating Committee had not met but had prepared the slate by mail. The
extensive’ plans for entertaining the National Biennial Convention in New
York City, under the Chairmanship of Caroline Slocum, had been canceled
due to the war and the $1242 donated by local clubs was returned. It was
voted to invite the National Board to Lake George mid-week to avoid
weekend traveling. The arrangements were to be handled by a Committee
comprised of the Presidents of the local Clubs within that District, and it
would be financed by a contribution of 25¢ per capita. The Public Affairs
report contained activities of local clubs: War Bond Sales, Civilian Defense,
Salvage, Red Cross, Nurses’ Aid, War Councils, U.S.O., Air Raid Spotters,
WAAC’s, WAVE’s and a final recommendation that “State and National
dues of members who had joined the Armed Forces be paid until victory.”

The resolutions all dealt with war-time matters notably one which
read: “That the B.P.W. actively assist in developing nursery and after
school programs providing nutrition, safety and recreation for the children
of war workers,” An important By-law Amendment which later caused con-
fusion was passed at this Convention: “Only women who are residents
of the State of New York and are actively engaged in a business or pro-
fession are eligible to hold office.” The total registration was 187 Delegates,
106 Alternates, 41 visitors.

An amusing note is here interpolated: “The Chair advised that the
afternoon entertainment had been changed from a speed boat ride and trip
up White Face Mountain because of no gas and the bad weather, to a band
concert in the auditorium.”

2i


ee: |e ne ey

2

The September Board Meeting was held for the second time at .the
I.B.M. Homestead where the members again enjoyed the hospitality of
Mr. Thomas J. Watson, Sr., President of the Corporation. The Triple Cities
Club announced the acceptance into membership of 155 I.B.M. ‘System
Service girls whose dues had been paid by Mr. Watson. These members
would later be transferred into B.P.W. Clubs throughout the United States.
Marjorie Smith was delegated to write a twenty-five year history of the
New York State Federation for presentation at the Twenty-Fifth Annual
Convention at Lake Placid (1944). Excitement ran high when it was an-
nounced that former State President Esther Corwin had joined the WAAC’s.

1944

The January Board Meeting was pleased to receive a letter from
Esther Corwin, former State President, from Officers’ Training School at
Fort Oglethorp, Ga. (Esther later received an Honorable Discharge from
the Army with the rank of Colonel), It was announced that all of the
Officers of the National Federation would “carry on” for the duration of
the War.

The Twenty-Fifth Annual Convention was held at the Lake Placid
Club with the Federation celebrating a quarter of a century of progress.

The out-going President Frances Marlatt greeted the members with
this message: “As we look back over the first twenty-five years of our
Federation’s history, we can view our accomplishments with pride and
realize that we have laid a firm foundation on which to build a future.”
Marjorie Smith presented 1,000 printed copies of the Federation History,
profits from which were to be placed in the Scholarship Fund. Dorothy
‘Titchener wrote and directed a pageant “Unfinished Tapestry” (quote from
minutes “A Living Panorama of Our History”), Frances Marlatt presented
a trophy to be known as the “Civic Activity Award.”

Although America was now in the third year of war, Federation talk
was largely of Post-war Problems. State finances were at a new high with
a balance of $1,656. The Democratic Processes Committee urged that the
committee be continuéd and “that women be represented at the Peace
Table.” The Education Committee Chairman spoke in terms of Post-War
needs and continued Youth Programs with emphasis on taking an effective
part in the prevention of juvenile delinquency. The Program Committee
Chairman suggested that women should be taking steps to protect their
economic gains; to integrate with other women’s organizations in an effort
to utilize the majority woman vote. The Legislative Committee Chairman
reported that a milestone had been reached in the passage of the New York
Assembly of the Falk-Todd Bill, “Equal Pay for Equal Work.”

Membership was on the up and up—Hudson, Office Typographers and
Middleburg had joined the ranks, bringing the total to 3365 members in
55 clubs. New York State was ahead of all 48 states in membership gain.
Leona Wilsey, President of the Triple Cities Club reported on the transfers
of the I.B.M. System Service Girls: “It is of interest to note that at the
present time, this Club has one-or more members in every State in the
United States with three in the Dominion of Canada. This is no longer an
experiment.” State Presidents in good standing were given a vote. The
Radio Committee, Doris Corwith of N.B.C, Chairman, reported “Thirty
broadcasts with 445 minutes of air time .. . time value $750. This donated
by 13 stations.” She recommended that “The New York State Federation
request the National Federation to appoint a National Radio Chairman.”

(This was finally accomplished by New York State at the July National
Biennial amid a furor of debate.) All resolutions dealt with peace and
adjustment. There were prop’ and opposition fact-fi to speak to
all resolutions, Attendance—150 Delegates, 39 Alternates, 81 visitors,

The September Board Meeting was for the third successive Fall held
in Binghamton, Triple Cities Club acting as hostesses. The Board stressed
training for leadership, allocated $300 for publicity and changed the name
to “News Service.”

Miss Grace Reavy, former President of the N. Y. State Civil Service
Vice Commission was the principle speaker and inspired the members with
“It is more important that we have a proper PQ (Personality Quotient)
than an IQ.” The President Sara Sparks closed the meeting with these
words “There is warmth in our hearts as we recognize that in a world
of turmoil we have enjoyed and shared peaceful, happy moments together
through the generosity of a great man, Mr. Thomas J. Watson, Sr.”

1945

The records of this year are incomplete and the files contain no
minutes . . . no Convention Bulletin, etc. The 1945 Convention was can-
celled as of April 2, by the Office of Defense Transportation. The Glen’s
Falls Club had completed most of the preliminary work and this was sor-
rowfully and. whole heartedly acknowledged by the State President. The
Corresponding Secretary (Beatrice Hertwig) received special recognition
as most of the business of the Federation had been carried on by mail, The
State Magazine under the guidance of Miss Clara Ogilvie, Editor and
Gertrude Smith, Business Manager was a thriving publication. $1092
worth of advertising had been sold by January of that year. The May and
June issues of this magazine printed all the reports of the Officers, Directors
and Committee Chairmen—a colossal job in itself. The Federation con-
tributed heavily to “Uncle Sam” via the letter and post card “vote by
mail” campaign. It is really surprising how many changes and improve-
ments in operation took place during these trying days.

The President recommended:

. “That local Club Presidents be given a vote on the Board (Lost).
“That District Directors be nominated by their own Districts and
elected at C ion to assure a uni, ity of election proced
and further that they be elected for a term of two years instead
of three with the possibility of a third term (Carried).

The Nominating Committee, Margaret Barnard, Chairman, solved
the knotty problem of election of officers and declared that all incumbents
being eligible were duly elected. There was a September Board Meeting in
Syracuse at which the committees reported a great deal of activity.

Membership Chairman, Caroline Slocum reported: One new club,
Endicott . . . a total of 3504 members in 54 clubs. Sponsoring Citations
were now given to clubs sponsoring new clubs.

Education Chairman, Marjorie Smith pointed out the need for women
to concern themselves with “Personnel Policies in the firms in which they
are employed, in order that women as well as men may hold positions
on the basis of merit and ability.” Finance Chairman, Anita Calhoun pre-
pared a budget of $12,000 to include sufficient funds to pay part of the
Officers and Standing Committee Chairmen’s expenses to Board Meetings
and Conventions. (The expenses of thé President, both Secretaries and the
Treasurer had been paid in full for several years.) She also urged that all

ne


24

1945

clubs establish an initiation fee of one to five dollars. Legislation Chairman,
Jane Todd had recently been appointed Deputy Commissioner New York
State Department of Commerce and the Federation took an active role in
assisting her work in this field. The emphasis for the year ahead was to deal
with the pted passage of a Mand Jury Bill, Enforcement of Child
Labor Laws in the State and as always with the re-employment and re-
adjustment of women in empl . The Publicati i had
outlived its usefulness and was abolished. Scholarship: Grace LeGendre
Chairman, had a balance of over $1600 so it was deemed expedient to
give an outright award of $100, rather than the usual loans. Sara Sparks
was suggested for a National Chai: hip (later being inted National
Public Affairs Chairman), Publicity, with Amy Lorton McKay as chair-
man, took on a professional look with full use of Clipping Service Bureaus
and we had something to clip. This Chairman presented a Publicity Cup to
be awarded at the next Convention, In addition to Jane Todd (mentioned
above) the following members were honored and duly publicized.

Mary Donlin, Chairman New York State Workmen’s Compensation.

Dean Eunice Hilton, Member of the New York State Minimum Wage
Committee.

Marion Bertine, appointed Assistant Secretary of the Eastchester Sav-
ings Banks Association.

Sara Sparks, appointed as a member of the Equal Pay Advisory Com-
mittee of the New York State Labor Department.

Winifred Stanley, appointed Legal Counsel New York State Retire-

ment Board, Albany.
1946

‘There are few records in the files for 1946 Board Meeting other: than
a report of the State Magazine and a-choice excerpt from Grace Reavy,
Chairman of the Post-war Action Committee. By this January VE Day had
been celebrated, May 4, 1945. The Atom Bomb had been dropped on Hiro-
shima and Nagasaki in August and formal surrender of the Japanese Army
on the U.S.S. Missouri September 2nd had proclaimed the end of World
War II. The New York State Federation was to gear itself for peace-time
activities. This sentence of Grace Reavy’s was in a folder marked, “January
Board Meeting 1946.” “As the Board Meeting is held in the midst of alarms,
strikes and rumors of atomic peril, it is hard to consider all this as part of
a peace-time program. Psychiatrists flavor their thinking about women with
the profound conclusion that even in the age of atom bombs the essential
woman will stay the same. There must be no waste of trained woman
power and this must be our stern resolution.”

The 27th Annual Convention was held in New York City whereat
the President offered a resolution that no reports other than those of the
President and Treasurer be read in full at the sessions (with the exception
of the recommendations) and that this become a standing rule applicable
to the present Convention (Carried). In her report she outlined the progress
of the difficult two years of the war period. “The success of carrying on
our activities so that the Federation could emerge from the war as a strong
and more courageous organization depended upon the entire membership.”
She further, indicated that there was a balance in the Treasury of $4,213.
As State President Mrs. Sparks was appointed by Gov. Dewey to serve on
the New York Women’s Advisory Council. This Council under the leader-
ship of Miss Jane Todd had recently been organized. Miss Sparks also

1946
attended the United Nations San Francisco Conference. It was decided
that $1,000 be given to the New York Infirmary “dedicated to all women
who have devoted their lives to public service.”

Caroline Slocum, Membership Chairman reported a net gain of 449
members in 55 clubs totaling 3862. East Aurora and Hamburg were added
to the roster.

Education Committee, Marjorie Smith, Chairman proposed that a
Cabinet position in the Federal Government be created devoted to the in-
terests of education. . . . Health Chairman, Davina Johnston, urged local
clubs to support County Health departments and Public Health Nursing.
... Public Affairs, Frances Marlatt recommended: “Study groups be formed
to concentrate on social, economic and political problems on local, state
and national levels in order to keep our membership intelligently informed
concerning these matters,” She also “advised the endorsement of a woman
on the Status of Women United Nations Committee.”

The magazine, Clara Ogilvie, Editor writes: “It is your magazine. . .
and it can be your voice that women, ‘across the street or across the nation
turn to for courage.” She noted that 18 issues were printed in the two
years and that the cover had been modernized. Gertrude Smith, Business
Manager of the magazine reported a net income for the two years of
$2,780, It certainly seemed as though, at long last, the State Magazine
could be converted into a revenue producing means rather than a financial
liability.

The Scholarship Committee, Grace LeGendre Chairman took a big
step forward in recommending that $500 be GIVEN to a student of the
Industrial Relations School of Cornell University for graduate study and
furthermore that $100 be given annually to “a graduate or undergraduate
who publishes the best article or book dealing with research or material
designed to improve the understanding of women’s status in the social

order” (Carried).
1947

We find surprisingly few records in the files for this year and recall
most of the activities from.memory. However the records of the 28th An-
nual Convention held in Buffalo are complete and present a colorful pic-
ture with an International flavor. Meeting close to the border, one of the
few all-time peaceful borders in the world, opened dramatic opportunities
for the B.P.W. Among the honored guests at the International Dinner held
on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls at the General Brock Hotel were:
Miss Margaret P. Hyndman, K.C., President of the Canadian Federation
and later to become International Federation President and Miss Sally
Butler, President of the National Federation. The dinner opened with the
singing of the two National Anthems . . . both strangely to the same tune
... “God Save the King” and “America.”

At the regular business sessions Caroline Slocum, President gave an
account of her first year’s Iship and offered dations for
the coming year. A balance of $1460 was reported with the following nota-
tions of interest. The allotments of Directors and Standing Committee
Chairmen had been increased to $850 as compared to $575 the previous
year and an additional donation was made of $1400 to the New York
Infirmary for the construction of a Consulting Room. The growth of the
Federation with an increase of 660 members and 6 new clubs: Gotham,
Greene County, Lyons, Oxford, Rome and Washington Square, making a

25


26

1947

grand total of 4522 members in 59 clubs pointed up once more the need
for a central office of some sort to manage what was beginning to be “big
business.” (This gain was more than double any other since the organiza-
tion of the Federation.)

The State Standing Committee Chairmen were to comprise the State
Program Committee so that the services of each be stressed in local club
programs, The Education Committee requested that the Federation urge
the Legislature to appoint a woman to the State Board of Regents. (This
was not accomplished.) The Hea’ .1 Committee recommended that local
clubs promote Cancer Detection Clinics, and authorize the use of the State
Federation name to actively sponsor a cardiac drive “Save a HEART” dur-
ing Valentine Week. The International Relations Committee reported
“Judging from the number of parcels sent abroad by B.P.W. Clubs, the
number of children adopted, and the number of business women helped,
we have greatly strengthened our influence.” News Service inaugurated the
idea of District News Chairmen and this greatly increased the news cover-
age.

A new committee to be known as “The Status of Women,” whose duty
was to present the names of qualified women for recommendations to posi-
tions of public capacity,” was established. Scholarships were increased from
$100 to $150. The Federation endorsed Anita Calhoun for the office of
National Treasurer and agreed to conduct a campaign for her election,
The song written by Dorothy Titchener was adopted as a State Song.
The September Board Meeting voted the sum of $156 for the Susan B.
Anthony Fund to restore her Study in the Anthony House in Rochester.
The Board urged the President of the United States to call a special session
of Congress for the purpose of giving temporary aid to Europe under the

Marshall Plan.
1948

The January Board meeting of this year was concerned with the
United Nations. and its impact on the Federation. The International Rela-
tions Chairman, Virginia Blood recommended that: “Local Clubs support
the United Nations Appeal for Children and that one day’s pay be set aside
by each member on Feb. 29th for this Fund (Carried). (We find no con-
firmation that this was ever accomplished.) The first bi-monthly Inter-
national Relations News Letter appeared. The Twenty-Ninth Annual Con-
vention was held in Syracuse with 163 Delegates, 229 Alternates and 151
Visitors in attendance. Caroline Slocum the out-going State President spoke
of the significant changes in the industrial, political and social life of our
country in the twenty-nine years of the Federation’s history. “Our organ-
ization is effective and its growth is ample testimony of its worth.” To
substantiate this statement the Membership Chairman, Dorothy Titchener,
reported eight new clubs: Cobleskill, Delhi, Mettowee Valley, Owego, Penn
Yan, Palmyra, Rockland County and Sodus with a total of 5,800 members
in 72 clubs ... . a 21% gain in membership.

Five hundred copies of a Supplemental Manual were printed contain-
ing information and protocol re federation procedures, A timely suggestion
was made by the Public Affairs Chairman, Sara Sparks, that: “local clubs
encourage wise buying and saving practices among members as practical
measures which will help curb inflation.” The State Scholarship Fund was
named the “Grace LeGendre Fellowship Fund” in honor of its founder.
The Health Committee Chairman, Dr. Sue Gould, recommended that we
“reaffirm the resolution passed at the 1947 Convention to lend active sup-

1948
port to the “Save a Heart Campaign.” Subsequently under the chairman-
ship of Vera Schmidt, Director of District 9, the Federation raised $15,000
for this fund, 35 clubs taking part in the campaign. A Social Creed was
established “giving the policy of the B.P.W. in our responsibilities in social,
economic and political life.”

The balance pledged by the Federation to the New York Infirmary
was paid in full and the following letter of appreciation was received: “On
behalf of the Trustees, Doctors and hard-working volunteers of the In-
firmary may I express our deep appreciation to the members of your organ-
ization for your thoughtful and generous contribution. . . . We have re-
served a consultation room in the Social Service Department which will
bear a bronze plaque naming your organization as the donor.” (A total of
$2,400 was given.) The name of the “Status of Women” Committee was
changed to “Women in Policy Making Posts.” Some of the noteworthy
happenings of 1948 included: The appointment of Mary H. Donlan as
National Program Coordinator, Anita Calhoun as a Member of the Na-
tional Finance Committee. Visits to the United Nations were inaugurated.
Miss Jane Todd, New York State Deputy Commissioner of Commerce
started the Women in Small Business Survey and the Clinics with B.P.W.
specialists assisting. The program demonstrated at the National Biennial
at Fort Worth attracted nation-wide interest.

1949

January of 1949 President Marjorie C. Smith proposed a goal of 5%
increase in membership by the May Convention. Also that an Executive
Committee be created comprised of the six officers to study wise use of
state funds for ways and means to finance the State Magazine and establish
a State Office. Dr. Katherine Blyley, President of Keuka College and
Chairman of the State Education and Vocations Committee made her first
proposal of the Foreign Student Plan. . . a plan that was to bring acclaim
to the State Federation and great satisfaction to the local clubs that took
part in it, In her dramatic plea for its adoption Katherine Blyley said in
part: “The basic value lies in first hand experience. If, our country is to
make a success of its political and moral leadership around the world it
must have the understanding of other people. For the foreign student
it will be an opportunity to observe and live in the Democracy in College
Life. . . . For the B.P.W. . . . the satisfaction of a DIRECT attempt to
testify to our faith in our way of life and a means of unifying our District
Life by common purpose.” Later at the Thirtieth Annual Convention in
Lake Placid, the Convention voted to place this before local clubs and
districts as an approved project but not to pass it as a State-wide project.
Thus four Districts adopted the plan, 3, 4, 6 and 7, In the Report of the
State President, Marjorie Smith, at the opening of the Convention we
find these prophetic words: “The world has been looking to the people
of this country for direction, The possibility of everyone’s having a voice
in the policy-making of our country is an idle dream in the minds of those
nationalities who have lived under authoritative governments. We are the
testing ground of the democratic process, . .. Our Federation in New York
State must be an active force in proving its value.” Again the President
urged that “Immediate steps be taken to provide a State Office.” In an
attempt to make this possible a raise in State Dues from $1.00 to $2.00
was urged but this motion lost by a narrow margin. The Legislation Com-
mittee, Dorothea Donaldson Chairman, recommended that: “District Di-

21


28

1949

rectors conduct in their Districts Legislation Round Tables prior to Election
Day . . . and that local clubs invite their New York State Senators and
Assemblymen to meetings before the January Legislative Sessions.” Mem-
bership Chairman, Edith Gordon, reported five new clubs, Champlain
Valley, Greene, Latham, Schoharie and Skyline. A motion to “adopt the
United Nations Declaration of Human Rights instead of the Social Creed
was tabled indefinitely. Anita Calhoun was proposed for Nomination as
National Treasurer and Caroline Slocum for Director of the Northeast Re-
gion. (Both proposals were later successful.) ‘To point out the growth of
the Federation and its responsibilities we need only to read of the $19,300
in the State Budget for 1949-50... a far cry from the $3,860 indicated
in the 1933 budget. But this was not énough and the State Magazine was
draining $3,000 from the treasury. A voluntary contribution of 50¢ per
member was suggested to be “‘used for all State purposes.” Two celebrations
took place in honor of the Thirtieth Anniversary:

1. The honoring of Grace LeGendre on her Silver Anniversary (25
years) | for continuous service to the Federation over that period
of ti

2A short play, “After Thirty” was written and produced by Dorothy
Titchener.

A total of 296 were in attendance—-173 Delegates, 54 Alternates and

68 Visitors

ber 1949 the M: had been suspended since the June
Issue. "the Volunteer Contribution. of 50¢ per member had netted only
$300 and this was voted to the Lake Placid Club to offset the expenses of
the May Convention. It was therefore voted that the Registration Fee for
future conventign s be raised to $6.50. The Executive Committee was em-
powered to act for the Board of Directors during the interim periods be-
tween Conventions and Board Meetings.

1950

At the January Board Meeting in New York City the Federation
faced many changes. The extensive growth in membership, the wide spread
of new clubs throughout the state required more of the Officers, (all of
whom had to be employed to hold office) than it was possible to accomplish
without some kind of central office. The Magazine had not been published
for six months and the membership was losing touch with State affairs.
President Marjorie Smith was ill and was unable to attend the Board
Meeting.

‘Afver considerable discussion it was voted to publish three issues of the
State Magazine under the Editorship of Pearl Lowery with Mable Purdy as
Business Manager. This would give the Federation an opportunity to print
the paid advertisements amounting to $93.00 and thus avoid legal difficulty.
Dorothea Donaldson, Chairman Legislation Committee, announced the first
Legislative News Letter, “reflecting legislation introduced into the State’s
Legislature to be forwarded to all local chairmen weekly.” Caroline Slocum
reported as Campaign Manager for Anita Calhoun, who was seeking the
office of National Treasurer, the collection of over $400 in voluntary con-
tributions. The Campaign Hats for Anita were to be “a single crepe paper
rose mounted on a small heavy paper beret.” (Later a lovely ceramic rose
pin was substituted.) The Thirty-First Annual Convention was held in
Saratoga Springs. The out-going President, Marjorie Smith, urged us to

1980

“recognize the rapidly changing social order. . . . Planning today may be
our protection tomorrow. The plans we make as an organization must be
plans to aid all people.” She recommended that: “The funds accumulated
from this year’s voluntary contributions (which now totaled over $700)
plus an allotment in the 1950-51 budget authorize this convention to the
establishment of a State Office.” And thus the business of the Federation
was enabled to move forward with greater efficiency due to the deft
handling of President Smith. Notable changes were ane in the By-laws
which provided the i for needed y ffi State
dues were raised to $2.00 per member. The District Drea were to be
elected by their respective districts, become members of the Board of Di-
rectors, and be ratified the first day of the State Conventions. . . . Radio
and television was made a Standing Committee... . The Executive Com-
mittee, composed of the six elected Officers, was given the power to act in
emergencies arising during the interim between Board Meetings or “at such
time or times as it may appear impractical or impossible to assemble the
full Board of Directors.” The Program Committee recommended that
Workshops be a permanent part of Conventions and Board Meetings. The
librarian, Alice Gates moved that “A recording of Mrs. Helen Curtis Smith’s
voice singing the “Golden Key” be made” (this was done and is filed). The
Resolutions Committee, Margaret Barnard Chairman, supported the rati-
fication of Convention on Genocide, the appointment of women as Com-
missioned Officers in Army Medical Corps and opposed lowering the per-
missive retirement age of women. The attendance was as follows: Delegates,
196; Alternates, 73; Visitors, 106 ... making a grand total of 375.

By September 1950 the State Office had been established in the home
of the President Dorothy Titchener with Mrs. Patricia Tritten as first
“Secretary of State.” Of the $800 allotted for this purpose only $480 was
expended. Scholarship Loans were extended to $250. It was voted that
State endorsement of women for Public Office, “Shall be construed as a
public service not regarded as political nor partisan.” ‘Thus the way was
paved to make our voice heard in political matters. The Chairman of Civil
Defense, Linda Stanford, was authorized to comply with the 'N. Y. State
Civil Defense Office wherever possible during the emergency. The Cosmo-
politan Club was admitted to membership.

1951

The State Office was now established in the Titchener home, metal file
cases purchased and typewriter borrowed and Mrs. Patricia Tritten, young
Triple Cities member, became the first part-time secretary. Immediately
personal letters, mimeographed programs and committee materials started
to Board and Club officials, making them vividly aware of the parts they
were to play successfully in their Federation.

E, the newly named State magazine, was issued 8 times a year. A
Stat ¥ list was prepared and revised monthly. Mailing,
under an IBM system, was done as a voluntary contribution of the Greater
Endicott Club, which furnished Martha Doyle, editor, and Clair Carey,
business manager, Area advertising managers were appointed to promote
the magazine and add financial support.

Workshops on program methods, membership, club finances, inter-
national relations, etc. were developed at conventions, Board meetings and
District programs as a fruitful project of Judy Fisher, program coordinator.

Programwise, education-and-vocations encouraged business clinics,

29


I

1951
scholarship awards, retraining women war workers. International Relations
sponsored many visits to United Nations and hospitality to foreign visitors,
study programs and workshops. Health and Safety advocated uniform traf-
fic codes and supported community hospital and health drives. Group In-
surance was offered to all clubs.

The Thirty-Second Annual Convention was held in Elmira with 209
Delegates, 56 Alternates and 156 Visitors attending. The Convention was
covered by radio broadcasts “every hour on the hour” during the Meeting.
It was voted to set up a special Fund of $2,000 from the money allocated to
the establishment of the State Office and not expended to be used for
equipment for the Office at the end of the present administration.

In early May 1952 President Titchener conceived and developed the
campaign, which extended into 1953, to nominate Margaret Chase Smith,
Me. Republican and Judge Sarah T. Hughes, Texan Democrat for vice
president on their respective national party slates. Both women were con-
tacted by phone during the executive committee meeting and consented.
The Federation endorsed the idea and authorized its representation to the
National Federation at the Boston biennial. Nationwide publicity for the
New York Federation as well as the candidates resulted. Politicians began
to consider. The National Federation (in Dr. Fisher’s regime) unanimously
adopted Dot’s idea and she was named general Chairman to direct the
campaign, with appropriate party workers. The influence of women was
enlarged in both national party platforms. Mrs. Smith’s name was not
presented but Judge Hughes received an ovation. During the presidential

ign, when the Republican vice president’s candidacy was in jeopardy,
it was reported that serious consideration was given by Gen. Eisenhower to
the emergency designation of Mrs. Smith to fill a possible vacancy in the
ticket.

M.

} ded

iF in sp fashion, adding 18 clubs to make
94 with enrollment of 6,148 as of April 1, 1952. Chartered in 1951 were
Bethlehem, Waverly, Warwick, Cosmopolitan, Smithtown, Seneca Falls and
Waterloo, Then 11 more were added in 1952—Lewiston, Power City of
Niagara Falls, Bronx, Saugerties, Rensselaer, Skyline, Lake George, Gene-
seo, Franklin of Malone, Elmira Heights and Canandaigua.

1952

January of that year the United States was once again in the throes of
‘war (Korean) and War Risk Insurance was of primary importance. Mar-
jorie Tate of Brooklyn was appointed a Delegate to UNESCO, and the
first briefing session was held at the UN Headquarters with Leona Wilsey
(Wallace) presiding. Sixteen Clubs had sold one full page of advertising
for the State Magazine totaling $2,013 and the Federation had voted to
entertain the International Federation Board in New York City with New
York State being responsible for the expenses of one Delegate from over-
seas (our Delegate, who end 1 herself to the bership was Mrs. Annie
Voipio Juvas from Helsinki, Finland). Her visit with us was financed
through a voluntary céntribution of $2 per club plus a balance from the
Campaign Fund of Anita Calhoun’s successful try for National Treasurer).
Colonie, Franklin, Lewiston, Normanskill, Power City, Skyline and Schroon
Valley joined the Federation. The Thirty-Third Annual Convention was
held in Lake George with the Glens Falls Club the Hostess Club. Miss
Helen Irwin, National President, was the National Representative.

The By-laws were amended to create the Office of Third Vice President

1952

and abolish the Corresponding Secretary, This seemed wise in that the
State Office Secretary carried the burden of correspondence and the Third
Vice President could assume some of the official responsibilities and handle
a special fund set up to finance expenses of District Directors. Marguerite
Fisher and Margaret Barnard were appointed Observers to the Inter-
national Board Meeting to be held in July and the State International
Relations Committee were to act as Hostesses. Membership had increased
by 414% with a total of 6,148 members in 93 clubs. Bronx, Canandaigua,
Elmira Heights, Geneseo, Lake George, Rennselaer and Saugerties were new
clubs. The Budget for 1952-53 was set at $30,200, a new high.

There had been a saving in the budgeted amount for the State Office
of $2,000 which was put into a special fund for the purchase of equipment
for the next State Office. Seventy-five percent of the Clubs participated in
the Crusade for Freedom campaign, and CARE projects. The Scholarship
Cc i was letel ped with the Funds put into a special
account to be jointly handled by the Treasurer and State Scholarship Chair-
man, Corsages fashioned from dollar bills instead of flowers netted over
$200 for the Scholarship Fund, The Candidates for Office for 1952-53
were presented at a party preceding the Banquet where Mrs. Harry Harvey
Thomas was honored for her twenty-one years’ of service in our behalf.
Dorothy Titchener was presented to National as a possible National Radio
and ‘Television Chairmanship and later appointed by the National Presi-
dent, Miss Helen Irwin. Saratoga Springs gave the State Federation the
gift of a new typewriter.

170 Delegates, 40 Alternates and 69 Visitors attended—279.

September 1952—President Fisher reported on the pressing problems
on higher levels. She urged local clubs to devote a part of their programs
to the question of “Preparing Women for Top-Level Positions.”

The State Office was newly organized in Syracuse with Mrs. Roby
Garfield as Secretary and the flow of mimeographed material began to

cover the state.
1953

The Jariuary Board Meeting in New York City boasted a “first” in the
presenting of awards to Business Firms for “the utilization of women in
supervisory, managerial, executive and technical positions.” (As an amusing
sidelight- we caught a glimpse in the hotel elevator of one of the male
recipients of the award sheepishly carrying the large white statue of head-
less Nike under his arm.) The Board also scored in the recommendation
to conduct a Legislative Conference in Albany during February to honor
women in the State Legislature. Workshops had become.a regular feature
of every State Meeting and the Chairman of Education and Vocations
Committee had toured the State setting up workshops at District Meetings
and local clubs, thereby gaining the title of “Panel Pearl.” The Thirty-
Fourth Annual Convention was held at Lake George with District 5 Clubs
comprising the Convention Committee..The President, Marguerite Fisher,
outlined in her report the highlights of the past year. The American Heri-
tage Foundation Award for the outstanding work carried on by the Public
Affairs Committee, Gladys Brechter (Clark) Chairman. The Committee
had engaged in an all-out effort to get out the vote using many novel
features, such as an exhibit at the N. Y. State Fair, etc. Competing with
15,000 organizations on a Nationwide basis, New York State B.P.W. tied
with the West Virginia Federation of Women’s Clubs for first place. The

3


32

1953

Scholarship Committee raised over $2,000 during the year and recom-
mended that the two scholarships be combined under the supervision of
the State Scholarship Committee, one of the scholarships to be named in
honor of Judy Fisher (Carried). The Committee presented two Candidates
for Fellowship awards. One of $500 to assist a woman in Medical educa-
tion at Syracuse University. The second for $1,500 to assist in obtaining a
doctorate in the field ‘of Applied Social Psychology at Columbia. This
represented considerable improvement over the first $25 awarded but that
first award of years ago made this more generous one possible.

‘The awards to Business Firms made at the January Board Meeting
were so successful in the field of better public relations it was voted to ap-
point a State-wide Committee under the Chairmanship of Margaret Bar-
nard to promote this feature. The Civil Defense Chairman, Elizabeth Parks
read a portion of the State of Union Message of President Dwight D. Eisen-
hower which in light of today’s knowledge carries a ring of prophecy. “Total
defensive strength must include Civil Defense preparedness. Because we
have incontrovertible evidence that Soviet Russia possesses atomic weapons,
this kind of protection becomes sheer necessity.” The Third Vice President,
Leona Wilsey (Wallace), recommended that the District Directors Fund
set up at the 1952 Convention be continued (Carried). A Voice of America
Broadcast from the Convention was set up by the Radio and Television
Chairman, Hume Dixon. The Resolutions Committee, Margie Lee Johnson,
Chairman, presented two important Huts One of lations to
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth of Great Britain and the other to the Honor-
able Frank C. Morse, Lt. Governor of N, Y. State as Chairman of the
Rockefeller Foundation for the Study of Government urging Mr. Moore to
review the “achievements of women.” There were 266 Delegates, 74 Alter-
nates, 116 Visitors making an all-time high of 416 in attendance.

In June of 1953 the State President, Marguerite Fisher, and Inter-
national Relations Chairman, Dorothy Titchener, were chosen as two of
the six delegates from the United States to attend the International Con-
gress in Stockholm, Sweden. In October “Operation Button Hole,” Mar-
garet Barnard, Chairman, a campaign endorsed by the National Federation
for promotion and passage of the Equal Rights Bill, became one of the
active projects of the New York State Federation.

NIKE, the official magazine, underwent transformation in format,
cover and contents under the expert editorships. With increases in budget
and advertising NIKE became a highly creditable house organ, filled with
State B.P.W. news and features.

The following clubs were taken into membership: Fair Haven, North

Westchester and Wall Street.
1954

In January of 1954 the Committee appointed to work out campaign
procedure on the election of State Officers recommended that all candidates
be presented at a Federation affair in their honor and that campaign litera-
ture be limited to letters of endorsement and copies of the April “Nike” in
which all candidates photographs appear (Carried).

Kathryn Starbuck had been selected by a special committee as the New
York State Candidate for the National Distinguished Service Award.

At the Thirty-Fifth Annual Convention in Buffalo attended by 211
Delegates, 62 Alternates and 53 Visitors the out-going President, Marguerite
Fisher, pointed out the following statistics as gathered by the National
Federation: “They reveal that only 8% of the members earn as much as

1954

$5,000 a year, while 51% of them support dependents. This is a discour-
aging picture of the economic status of women in our country. These facts
should give us renewed incentive to concentrate in our local clubs on the
major objective for which the Federation was founded, namely, the ad-
vancement of the status of women.” Leona Wilsey (Wallace) reported a
100% participation in the Voluntary Fund for District Directors with a
balance of $617 and all bills paid. A total of $2,250 was presented in Fellow-
ships to four young women for Graduate Study.

Shortly after taking office Margaret Barnard, the newly elected Presi-
dent received a letter from Lena Madesin Phillips the Federation Founder
regarding an Article, written by Margaret, appearing in the “Independent
Woman.” We quote in part from that letter: “You are a good philosopher,
my dear, and I shall expect a fine, constructive year’s work under your
able and consecrated leadership.” This proved to be true as borne out by
the minutes and reports of this new administration,

Dr. Marguerite J. Fisher, awarded a Fulbright teaching fellowship to
the Philippine’s Women’s University, was appointed International Federa-
tion liaison to the Philippine’s Federation. At her behest N. Y. CG. clubs
bought UNESCO coupons to benefit the University—a typewriter, tape re-
corder and other commercial aides were bought.

Politically, the Federation sought to influence state party conventions
through the Women in Policy Making Posts committee. Ruth Sullivan (R)
chairman and Kathryn Fitzgerald (D) vice chairman attended the plat-
form meetings. Hon. Mary H. Donlon was chairman of the Republican
party’s platform committee. Following .election, data was completed on
25 qualified women Democrats, most of whom were B.P.W. members.

On invitation, for the first time, the Governor-elect, Averell Harriman,
invited the B.P.W. president to confer on women for cabinet and other
posts. Supplementary materials were requested on appointments through-
out his administration and the non-partisan opinions of the Federation were
given consideration. Dr. Persia Campbell, Queens College economist, be-
came consumer counsel to the Governor. Angela Parisi was appointed
Chairman of the Workman’s Compensation Board (both straightway be-
came B.P.W. members) Lottie Stillerman (B.P.W.) was appointed a
deputy secretary of state. Mary Good Krone (B.P.W.) continued as a
Givil Service Gommissioner, reappointed later for a term expiring in 1959,
the one Republican member. Kathryn Fitzgerald was named an assistant
deputy commissioner of commerce and at the end of a year was promoted
to a full deputy. Winifred Stanley was appointed an assistant attorney
general and Ruth Toch was continued in the same capacity under Jacob
Javits (R) attorney general.

Medina-Middleport, Beacon, White Plains, Phelps, Geddes and Wil-

sonian joined in 1954.
1955

By January of 1955 the ball was rolling. A broadcast in New York City
called “Have a Heart” netted $106 for the State Scholarship Fund. A tea
was held in New York City for Members of the Canadian Federation who
came to visit the United Nations.

Drastic changes in programming voted at the St. Louis biennial chal-
lenged the clubs to develop, under Mabel Purdy, programs and projects of
local application, Program planning meetings and workshops were held at
district meetings and presidents’ meetings. A statewide contest for best
programs in three membership groups brought 27 active participants and


1955

the Utica club’s program was chosen for the National competition. This
working together was productive of presidents’ planning meetings in nearly
all districts, following the plan advocated in District One.

B.P.W. members began to appear at public hearings on health, labor,
insurance, court reform and other bills in the legislature. Statements of
policy were filed and members stated our platform positions as citizens,
voters, taxpayers, workers and women. We participated in regional and
state conferences of the New York State Committee for the White House
Conference on Education, with major emphasis on adult education and
higher education.

At the Thirty-Sixth Annual Convention in Lake George the President,
Margaret Barnard urged the members to “take our Federation personally
. .. to contribute to world peace. by making new friends with women of
other lands... and to work effectively for the election of qualified women
in public office.” Accordingly the Delegates voted to cross party lines and
because of the Republican president and Democratic senate they could
work astutely to promote the nomination and approval of Hon. Mary H.
Donion as a judge of the United States Customs Court. Pres, Eisenhower
finally sent the nomination to the senate judiciary committee in June, 1955.
The senate confirmed the nomination and she was sworn in Aug. 10, in
the presence of several B.P.W. officers, including the NYS president. On
Oct. 17, 1955, Judge Donlon took her seat on the bench in New York City
before another delegation of B.P.W. friends, her family and others.

They further recommended the admittance of Alaska and Hawaii into
Statehood and urged Congressional Support of a three year extension of
the Reciprocal Trade Agreement. NIKE was to be published bi-monthly.

In membership New York State passed the 7,000 mark with 7.016 in
118 clubs, Bay Shore, North Port, Anne Hutchinson, Eastchester, Horse-
heads, Mohawk Valley, Mount Morris, Olean, Ogdensburgh and Silver
Creek were chartered by 1955.

There were 250 Delegates, 90 Alternates and 101 Visitors in attend-
ance. During this administration the Federation and the president’s ability
were recognized by her. Membership on the New York State Women’s
Safety Council, Which was organized by one of our members, Mrs, Black
of Ithaca Club; the board of directors of the Committee for Modern Courts,
succeeding Judge Donlon; the Women’s Council of the New York State
Commerce Department; the College Council of the College of Home Eco-
nomics of Cornell University; the New York State Council for the White
House Conference on Education and the Regional Conference of the Presi-
dents’ Committee for Traffic Safety.

1956

At the January Board Meeting it was recommended that the Iedera-
tion endorse Dorothea Donaldson as a candidate for Congress from the
26th District. This again in conformity with the new policy of crossing
political lines when the Women in Policy-Making Posts Committee had a
qualified candidate. The outstanding women in the New York City Ad-
ministration were honored at the luncheon as well as the Business Award
winners. At the Thirty-Seventh Annual Convention held at Lake Saranac
the out-going President, Margaret Barnard made three recommendations:

1, That the New York State Federation express appreciation to the

former National Federation Staff Members who no longer serve the
Federation and request the National Federation to take similar
action,

1956

2, That the State Federation draft a statement of Employment Prac-

tices,

3. That the National Federation give some assistance to New York

State to provide hospitality for the B.P.W. women from other lands.

(No. 1 was passed at Biennial . . . No. 2 was accomplished in the
State but the National Federation reported that the National Executive
Committee would take care of such matters, No report on No. 3.

The Librarian, Margie Lee Johnson, recommended that “500 copies
of the State History be printed and sold for not less than $1.00 and that
money be allocated in the budget for this project. “It was voted to delay
action on this until the January 1957 Board Meeting. The Sarah Hughes
World Fellowship grants were reactivated and there were five recipients.

‘The Chinese Nursing Fund was likewise resurrected and after a dinner
at the Chinese embassy in Washington a substantial payment was made to
aid public nurse training in Taiwan. New York State gave liberally to
Hungarian Relief and a refugee girl student became a protege of Margaret
Barnard.. The Research Foundation, which was voted after long debate at
biennial, was liberally supported and Eunice Hilton of Syracuse University
became a member of the steering committee.

Generous contributions to the Grace LeGendre Fellowship (Syracuse
gave $1,000) made it possible to award five fellowships. Nearly every club
had local scholarship projects and four districts continued their contribu-
tions to foreign students.

266 Delegates, 79 Alternates and 98 Visitors attended—a total of 443,
During 1956 the following clubs were chartered: Glove City, Great Neck,
Tappan Zee, Ramapough, South Bay and Babylon.

In July at the National Biennial Convention the name of the Educa-
tion and Vocations Committee was changed to Career Advancement. and
the Radio and TV Committee was combined with other forms of publicity
to be labeled Public Relations. In September it was voted to give the balance
of the Barnard Campaign Fund ($328.24) as follows: $100 returned to
State Treasury, $100 to the B.P.W. Foundation and Research Center, and
the balance to the Lena Madesin Phillips Fund in honor of Margaret
Barnard.

1957

The talk is changing . . . new words are creeping into the minutes
such as “space medicine, radio-active fallout and the all out request to com-
bat Communism.” National Security is concerned with the projects neces-
sary to Civil Defense. Mae McPhee, Chairman of the National Security
Committee, reported in part at the Thirty-Eighth Annual State Convention
in Syracuse that: “We must promote Positive Americanism... . and that
we develop our Inner Spiritual Security. Our progress, our inventions, our
jet age have made the world a neighborhood . . . it is up to us to make it a
brotherhood.”

Mable Purdy, President, urged local clubs to take action in support of
enlarged opportunities for qualified women in the field of education. Pearl
Lowery, First Vice President, recommended that in order to attract more
professional women to bership that fine-arts programs be included in
the year’s agenda. As an aid to District Directors a brief Federation Cal-
endar was to be prepared by the State Office. The By-law revisions, Ruth
Sturm Chai caused great di ion due to the proposal from the
National Federation that all State and Club By-laws should be standard,

35


1957
New York State voted in opposition to standard by-laws and added that:
“Tf Standard State and Club By-laws are to be required, the Business and
Professional Women’s Clubs of New York State, Inc. believe that they
should be flexible enough to permit states and Clubs to make variations to
fit their own needs.” After a lengthy discussion a Resolution was passed in
favor of President Eisenhower's “Mutual Security Program, including both
Military and Economic Aid to Countries allied with the United States.”

NIKE i 1 to serve the ship as a house organ and news
bulletin-of special club interest. The district reportorial staff, developed this
year, netted a high percentage of advertising totaling $1,351.92. This made
possible a budget surplus of over $800.

Mrs, Harry Harvey Thomas was honored for her twenty-five years
of faithful service as Parliamentarian, “Tommy,” as she was known to her
thousands of friends received gifts and tributes from those who loved her.
290 Delegates, 75 Alternates and 139 Visitors were in attendance.

The Northeast Regional was held Sept. 12-15, 1957 at Lido Beach,
L. L, with New York as hostess, Esther Corwin was regional director. It
was a perfect setting for an event geared to international relations. There
were many U. N. guests and about 250 New Yorkers among the 700.
Margaret Hyndman of Toronto, International Federation president, was a
guest. The fall State Board meeting was held in conjunction.

The Board voted to cooperate with the Women’s Program of the
New York State Department of Commerce, presented by Mrs. Kathryn
Fitzgerald, Deputy Commissioner, in aiding Women returning to the labor
market.

The following clubs were chartered during 1957: Brighton, Castile,
Gowanda, Hudson Falls, Newfane and Massena. Membership totaled 7,034

1958

Challenged by Hazel Palmer, National Federation President to “care
and share our Federation through stabilization and expansion, a valiant
response was made resulting in the organization of 11 more clubs during
1958... Albion, Altamount, Fidelia Whitcomb of Nunda, Camillus, Liver-
pool, North Syracuse, Oneida, Patchogue, Upper Westchester and Walton.

Liability Insurance was inaugurated for those who work for the State
Federation, UNESCO Stamps were sold at the January Board Meeting.
The Public Affairs Chairman, Esther Stamats, gave the three R’s for the
New Year: “Responsiveness to the needs we see. Responsibility wherever
the need is greatest. Resourcefulness. . . . Be a channel by which things
can happen.” The Syracuse Club donated a check for $1,000 to the Scholar-
ship Fund, part of the profit from the preceding State Convention.

In March of 1958 a reorientation clinic was run off in Hempstead,
L. I, as the first of such clinics planned throughout the state. This was a
cooperative project with the Women’s Division of the N. Y. State Dept. of
Commerce and the B.P.W. Kathryn Fitzgerald, Deputy Commissioner of
Commerce and Vice Chairman of the Women in Policy-Making Posts Com-
mittee conducted the clinics, The Thirty-Ninth Annual Convention was held
in New York City with 300 Delegates, 100 Alternates and 90 Visitors in
attendance. The International Relations Chairman, Mildred Chaney, and
the Vice Chairman, Jeannette Longyear (Smith), reported on the work
accomplished by the Hospitality Committee in handling the many members
from overseas. Approximately 300 Business and Professional women have
been recipients of our hospitality in one form or another. The sale of

1958

UNESCO Stamps at the January Board Meeting resulted in the purchase
of $110 worth of visual aids and textbooks for the College for Women,
Kabul, Afghanistan. In line with the “fears” of the times it was recom-
mended that we urge New York City to provide adequate Bomb Shelters.
Surveys were to be conducted to establish a register of trained women in
each community... . Arid we assumed the responsibility of collecting a
voluntary contribution of 50¢ per member for the International Delegates
Fund. At the September Board Meeting the Health and Safety Chairman,
Dorothy Meehan, recommended that the Federation endorse the program
of the Greater N, Y. Safety Council to “provide for a more effective way
to enforce the existing laws.” Copies were sent to all clubs in the state
urging that every member carry “on her person at all times a vital statistics
card... to permit proper care in an emergency.” For the first a candidate
for Congress in the 40th District from the Liberal Party was to be included
in the Federation recommendation. Ruth Sturm, Second Vice President pre-
pared a Manual of Instructions for Officers and Chairmen.

1959

In January, Program Planning Meetings in each District were pro-
posed for the purpose of orientation of the membership. The Public Affairs
Chairman, Mable Purdy, urged local clubs to send letters to Governor
Rockefeller asking him to “expand the program of orientation for the
mature Woman.” The reorganization of the courts was still in the study
stage and a complete report was compiled outlining the various plans. A
thorough study of NIKE was undertaken with suggestions for its continued
growth and possible financial gain, In spite of the higher cost of printing
postage, paper, etc. the advertising secured produced enough to show a
$78 surplus. The Fortieth Annual Convention was held at Lake George
(Bolton Landing) with 264 Delegates, 83 Alternates and 96 Visitors in
attendance. The Resolutions Chairman, Margaret Ruth Thomas presented
a resolution that: “A Civil Service Plank be reinserted in both National
and Federal platforms reiterating the importance to a republic of integrity
and efficiency in public service” (Carried). The Scholarship Committee,
Eleanor Hutchinson, Chairman, reported that three $750 scholarships were
awarded. Dr. Edith Perlitz (Washington Square) recommended that the
name of Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell be placed in the Hall'of Fame at New York
University and “that the State Federation use its influence to accomplish
this project” (Carried), Dr. Blackwell was the first woman admitted to
and graduated from an American Medical College. She was the Founder
of the New York Infirmary (to which the State Federation gave some
$2,400 in 1945 and 1947),

The September Board Meeting was held at the glamorous Hotel Con-
cord it. conjunction with the last Northeast Regional Meeting. The Board
voted to continue the work on the two pilot projects:

1. Patterns in Womanpower (Research).

2. Search for Womanpower (Action). This is under the Sub-Commit-

tee of Gareer Advancement with Eva Hans! as Chairman.

To encourage more action in membership it was voted to “award $25
to a club that organized the most clubs from May 1959 to April 1960.
Katherine King, First Vice President prepared and distributed a “Program
of Facts” pamphlet, This is to take the place of the out-moded Supplemental
Manual printed in 1948. The Historian with approval and supervision of

37


38

the Executive Committee was to have 3,000 copies of the State History
printed and ready for sale at the Elmira Convention.

The new clubs for 1959 were Flatbush and South Bay making total
membership of 7,477 in 130 clubs. President Pearl Lowery represented the
Federation at many functions and is serving on President Eisenhower's Ad-
visory Council on Traffic Safety, the New York State Citizens’ Council on
Traffic Safety and the Women’s Council of the New York State Depart-
ment of Commerce.

As this History goes to press the January 1960 Board Meeting in
New York City is a thing of the past. Three hundred and sixty attended
the luncheon honoring the International Federation President, Miss Eliza-
beth Fuller, Switzerland. The thrilling moment came when the Swiss Na-
tional Anthem was sung in Miss Feller’s native tongue followed by the
Star Spangled Banner. The plans for the Elmira Convention are well
under way. Hancock has been chartered as we leave the business of 1960
to a future Historian to report.

1960

In July 1960, forty voting delegates represented New York State at the
National Convention held in Philadelphia. S. Orissa Jewett, Sidney, was Hospi-
tality Chairman, Past State President Mabel Purdy served on the Elections Board,
Kay Fitzgerald was appointed National Career Advancement Chairman.

‘The Fall Board Meeting was held at Jamestown, New York, and workshops
were held on the National Program thenie, “Advancing Women.” A special
committee on Board Meeting Procedures recommended that business sessions
for board meetings be limited to one day. This was approved by the Board.

Under the direction of Ruth Sturm, First Vice President, Vi Teams,
composed of past state and district officers, were organized in each district,
to visit club and district meetings to aid in club and district orientation, organi-
zation program and membership problems and plans.

The State organization was represented at the State Local Government
Workshop, on the Women’s Planning Committee of the New York State Depart-
ment of Commerce, State Teachers’ Recognition Day Committee, and State
Committee for National Library Week.

Grace Gustafson, a member of the Albany Club, was endorsed by the
Women in Policy Making Posts Committee, and was appointed by the Governor
as a member of the Temporary State Commission on the Capital City.

Because of the excellence of the program planned by the International
Relations Committee for the entertainment of ten Japanese ladies, members of
a Consumer Education Study Team, sponsored by the Japan Productivit
Center, a Certificate of Cooperation was given the State Federation by the U.S.
International Cooperation Association.

We were proud to entertain ten overseas members from England, France,
South Africa, Canada and New Zealand, including Mme. de Saint-Blanquat,
Second Vice President of the International Federation.

We assisted in hostessing and financing the “Experiment in International
Living” when they found themselves oversubscribed and asked us to help.

¢ also sponsored a weekend trip to Puerto Rico, with fifteen members
from New York State, to visit the clubs of that Federation.

‘The State received commendation from the Director of the Weights and
Measures Bureau, New York State Department of Agriculture, for passing
a resolution, supporting enforcement of weights and measures laws.

A State Fair Booth was staffed by members of District Five, at the

1960

Syracuse Fair, with the theme, “Design for Living,” highlighting the National
Business Women’s Foundation Traffic Safety study. The Wonlens Day Laneheott
at the Fair was attended by our State Second Vice President and the District
Director and thirty-three members, representing every club in District Five.

A reception was held for National President Fannie Hardy, December 1,
at the New York Life Insurance Building with Mrs. Amelia Reichert, an Assis-
tant Vice President of New York Life as Chairman.

The January Board Meeting was held at the Hotel Astor, New York City.
Attendance was lessened by a record snowfall in the New York City area, but
about 175 heard an excellent International Relations Program, and an address by
Mrs, Jane Robinson of the Inter-Departmental Neighborhood Center, Harlem.

The theme of the Ninth Legislative Conference in February, was “Law
Making in New York State,” and Governor Rockefeller highlighted educational
legislation in his remarks to those in attendance at an audience in the Executive
Chamber, State Capitol, Albany. 140 were present at the Conference.

Representatives of many countrics spoke at District One’s International
Night in February, MC’d by Angier Biddle Duke. Over 500 were in attendance.

“Everybody Sing for Membership” was the theme of the 42nd State
Convention held at Saranac Inn, Saranac Lake, in May, with the Adirondack
Club as hostesses. National Representative was Virginia Allan, Third Vice
President, Attendance was 514,

Three Grace LeGendre Fellowships of $750 were awarded to women for
continuation of their graduate studies.

1964

“Spotlighting Women in the Space Age” and “BPW Spotlights Hawaii —
our 50th State” was the theme of the 1961 New York State Fair Booth at
Syracuse.

National President Katherine Peden was honored by the State Federation
at the Roger Smith Hotel in New York City. The Monday luncheon was held
at the beginning of National Business Women’s Week in October.

A radical’ change took place in our committee structure. New Com-
mittees and Civic Participation, World Affairs and Personal Development, which
eliminate some and combine others of the former committees.

“Human Resources” was the theme of the Fall Board Meeting held at
the Hotel Biltmore, October 6-8, 1961. Dorothy Bell Lawrence, Assembly-
woman from Manhattan, was the Board Meeting luncheon speaker. Dr. Angiola
Denti di Perajno, President of the Italian Federation and Miss Jean Randall,
Vice-President of the International Federation, from Australia, were guests at
the luncheon,

President Katherine King represented New York State at the Conference
of Business and Professional Women of the Americas in Puerto Rico in
November.

The Visiting Teams Project was continued under the direction of Ruth
Sturm, and a Membership Evaluation Meeting was held with the State Second
Vice-President, Dorothy Wells, as Chairman, in March.

“The BPW Story”— slides with narration was compiled for use in pro-
moting membership and inspiring present clubs to greater achievements.

A Conk on E ics was held in conp ion with the January
Board Meeting at the Hotel Syracuse, Syracuse, January 19-20, 1962.

The State Federation was represented on the Women’s Advisory Com-
mittee of the New York State. Department of Commerce, the New York State
Women’s Defense Council, State Teachers’ Recognition Day Committee, and


RT

40

1961

State Comptroller Arthur Levitt’s Committee regarding policies and procedures
in competitive bidding.

“New Approaches to Mental Health Through Legislation” was the theme
of the Tenth Legislative Conference in Albany in February. Those in atten-
dance were addressed by Governor Rockefeller and by Attorney General Louis
J. Lefkowitz.

Nearly 600 members and guests attended District One’s International
Night observance in February at the Starlight Roof, Waldorf-Astoria, New York
City. The principal speaker was the Honorable Porla Mesta. Fannie Hust
was the Mistress of Ceremonies.

“Footsteps to the Future” was the theme of the 43rd State Convention
held at the Hotel Statler-Hilton, Buffalo, May 27-31, 1962, with over 500 in
attendance. Dr. Minnie Miles, 1st Vice President of the National Federation,
was the National Representative.

Division of District Four into two districts (four and eleven) because of
the territory involved was approved by the Board and ratified by the Con-
vention. A suggested Convention and Board Meeting schedule was approved. A
motion to endorse club participation in the CARE Self-Help Program in Latin
America was approved.

Three Grace LeGendre Fellowships of $750 each were awarded to
women for continuation of graduate study in law, dentistry, and journalism.

$2500 was contributed from New York State clubs to the Dr. Minnie L,
Maffett Chinese Nurses’ Fund.

A resolution commending J. Edgar Hoover for his forty-five years of
service in the United States Department of Justice was approved at the State
Convention, presented by the New York State Federation at the National
Convention, Los Angeles, in July, and passed. The resolution was entered in
thé Congressional Record through the efforts of Senator Jacob Javits of
New York.

‘A resolution that a fifth objective be added to our Federation objectives
to promote participation of business and professional women in community
and governmental activities at all levels was approved for submission to the
1963 National Convention.

Membership 1961 — 1962: 7122

Clubs chartered: Evans Township (8) Fort Neck (10)

; Northland (4) Syosset (10)

Clubs organized, but chartered in June 1962: Greater !"lushing (2)

Northern Dutchess (9)
1962

The theme for 1962-63 was “Leadership — a Di ion in D. for
You the Career Woman”. Our representation at the National Convention in Los
Angeles included Margaret Barnard, Past State President, serying on the National
Legislative Platform Committee, Katherine King, Past State President, acting
on the National Nominating Committee, and Marjorie Tate on the Credentials
Committee. Katherine King was appointed to the National Finance Committee
for the current year.

On August 20, one hundred and twenty-five members attended a welcome
and reception for International President Helen Irwin, upon her return to the
United States... At the end of that same month, twenty-three New York State
members attended a joint conference on Leadership, with our sister federations
of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, at Cherry Hill Inn, Haddonfield, N.J.

Our fall Board Meeting was held at the Schine Inn in Massena, Sept. 28-30,
1962 with 167 attending. Kathryn Fitzgerald, Past National Career Advancement

1962
Chairman, was our banquet speaker, and the theme for the session was “Achiey-
ing Through Leadership.” We were also proud to endorse our own Katherine T.
King for National Recording Secretary, and to present her name at the next
National Convention. District 1 reported the organization of a new club —
Murray Hill. ;

7 anuary 18, 1963 found 173 interested and attentive BPW members in
session for the mid-winter Board Meeting in the Sheraton Hotel, Rochester. At
this session, membership awards were revised with the Silver Cup, Silver Bowl
and Gold Statuette to be retired at the 1963.Conyention, and replaced by
Bronze Gongs and other awards. Definite action was taken to be presented for
approval at our state convention, toward the establishment of a permanent State
Office, and it was decided to help defray the 1963 State Convention expenses
by selling advertising in our program book. Our banquet speaker was Miss
Dorothea Chandler, Syracuse University College of Business Administration,
who spoke on “Communication.” L

‘We were honored to have our National President, Dr. Minnie C. Miles, as
well as Governor Rockefeller, participate in our 11th Annual Le ‘islative
Conference held February 17-19 in the TenE-yck Hotel, Albany. The theme:
“A New Crusade for Women?” The attendance — good; the result —- a more
solid bond between that which we are seeking and those who can give it to us —
our legislators.

‘Another conference, March 15-16, was held mount sponsorship with
Syracuse University on their campus. "This was a Leadership Training Con-
ference on “CG ication” and was most ding. .

We manned a booth at the New York State Exposition in Syracuse in
August . . . observed National Business Women’s Week, October 7-13... held
areception for 40 members of the Ohio Federation visiting the U.N. at the
Manhattan Hotel in New York City on November 30. The visitation of Maxine
Hill, National Federation Promotion Director, originally planned for the fall
of 1962, had to be postponed to mid-1963 due to Miss ill’s itiness. Our
“BPW Story”— slides and narrative of State and National activities — was
shown on several occasions during the year, and the project is being continued
to make an, interesting and informative document available for enlisting new
members and clubs.

Membership did not quite make the goal of 8000 which had been set,
and three clubs disbanded along the way, but the Membership Date-O-Grams
released by Second Vice President Loretta Spacek left nothing to be desired in
the way of enthusiasm. So, we set our goal higher and kept right on working.

‘A contest for the best club program on Community Activity was
sponsored by the Civic Participation Committee with awards presented at
Convention.

Our Visiting Teams Project was continued; some changes were made in
the Press Book Rules and Judging; and the clubs were requested to join in a
statewide CARE project for Latin America (Tolima, Columbia),

In an effort to provide more substantial support for the Grace LeGendre
Scholarship Fund, Past President Pearl Lowery and members of her Mt. Vernon
Club, crocheted afghans and donated them (one to each district), the proceeds
of which was contributed to this Scholarship Fund. Three $2000 scholarships
were presented to deserving women at State Convention.

We were saddened by the passing of Mrs. Harry Harvey Thomas,
beloved long-time parliamentarian for the New York State Federation.

In order to better preserve the record of our activities for posterity,
sixteen bound yolumes of our state magazines, NYS BUSINESS AND Pko-
FESSIONAL WOMEN, and NIKE (Noy. 1936 — June 1959) were placed in the
State Library in Albany. They were also placed on our mailing list 80 each issue
is added to the Library, making a complete file on record for anyone interested.


1962

We were proud of these women who were appointed or elected to
policy making posts this year; all of whom are BPW mcmbers:

Beatrice Burstein, Nassau, Judge, Nassau County District Court

Madge Taggart, Buffalo, Judge, Family Court, Frie County

Margaret Mary J. Mangan, New York League, Judge, Supreme Court
of the State of New York

Dorothea E, Donaldson, New Rochelle, Judge, Court of Claims in the
State of New York

Claire Wales, Syracuse, Assistant County Clerk in Onondaga County

Doris Weir, Utica, member of the Board of Managers of the Oneida
County Hospital

Lorraine M, Rouget, Mt, Vernon, member of the Advisory Board of the
Department of Recreation of Mt. Vernon

Ruth M. Ginther, Niagara Falls, Chairman of the City’s Advisory Board,
Convention and Industrial Activities

Dorothy White, Adirondack, Postmaster, U.S. Post Office

Dorothy Perkins, Adirondack, Chairman of the North Elba Planning
Committee

Pauline Malter, Flatbush, Justice of the Criminal Court of New York City

Beatrice Judge, Brooklyn, Vice Chairman of the Kings County Executive
Committee, Democrat Party.

1963

Our concerted effort for the year was toward the realization of our theme:
“The Responsibility of Full Partnership.” We had excellent representation at
the National Federation Conyention in July 1963 — Lucile Kinne served on the
National Nominating Committee; Elizabeth Eastman on the Legislative Platform
Committee; and Ruth Sturm and Mildred Clark on the Election Watcher's
Committee. In addition, of course, our greatest effort was to elect Katherine
King to the post of National Reearding Secretary, This we failed to do — not for
any lack of her qualifications, nor our endeavor. Our reception made history!
Many compliments were received on our gold crowns and torches, and the

vibrant enthusiasm of our committees and delegates.

Basic groundwork for the year was laid at a planning conference held in
the Holiday Inn in Utica on June 22, with all State Officers, Committee Chair-
men and District Directors participating,

During the week of August 27 — September 3, our State Federation was
brought into public view by the sponsorship of a booth at the State Exposition
in Syracuse. It was decided that this should | be continued on an annual basis
as good public relations, and $50 be included in the budget annually to cover

the cost. Our representation at the Women’s Day Luncheon was excellent The
luncheon speaker was Judge Madge Taggart of Buffalo, a BPW member.
In August (23-25) forty-three members of our State Federation attended
_ a Leadership Conference sponsored by our National Federation in the Hotel
Americana in New York City. At least five of the nearby clubs participated in
some of the confi functions — registrati ption, displays and
furnishing yarious items and musical accompaniment.
Two of our State Officers d the National Federation at the All-
American Conference to Combat Communism in New York City, and at a tea
iven by the Women’s Advisory Committee on the World’s Fair, our State
resident, Ruth Sturm, acted as National Federation Representative.

1963

In October, 226 registered delegates assembled at the Sheraton Inn in
Binghamton for a three day Fall Board Meeting, the theme of which was
“Strengthening our Federation.” The banquet on Saturday night was held at
The Fountains, and was highlighted by a talk by our Past State President
Dorothy Titchener. We came from the Board Meeting $250 richer in our
Scholarship Fund because of the inconvenience of double booking by the hotel,
etc., but being business women, we could almost forget any shortcomings to
enrich this most worthwhile fund. Since this was also the beginning of the
National Observance of “Business Women’s Week,” was calvacade leaving the
hotel on Sunday bore car bumper strips advortising this special event.

Two leadership conferences also were held in the fall — one at Hunter
College on October 26, at which our National Federation President Virginia
Allan was guest speaker. Over 250 attended this conference and the State
Operating Fund netted $600 which was earmarked as a revolving fund for
future seminars. The second, a joint venture with Cornell Untvorstty School
of Industrial and Labor Relations, was held on November 16 at Williamsville,
New York, with approximately ninety attending.

Our Winter Board Meeting was held January 18-20 in the Hotel Biltmore
in New York City with 265 registered delegates, and was one of the finest
Board Meetings on record. The theme: “RX 4 U” was most capably and
interestingly presented. Louise Bushnell, Director of the Women’s Department
of the National Association of Manufacturers, brought the keynote speech,
and even the weather cooperated in NOT dumping any new snow while we were
there, although plenty has fallen in advance.

It remained for the 12th annual State Legislative Conference on February
16-18 in Albany, to really run afowl of the worst weather of the winter.
Attendance at the session held in the DeWitt Clinton Hotel, however, was good.
158 attended the luncheon. In spite of the weather, a splended reception was
held for Marguerite Rawalt, Past National Federation President, who also was
the principal speaker; and the women were pleased to meet Governor
Rockefeller and have tea at the Executive Mesieis with his gracious wife. The
theme of the conference, “The Leadership of Women” was ably carried out
by our faithful standbys: Margaret Barnard, Huldah Segal, Betiy Eastman,
Grace Gustafson, Laura Shufelt, Carolyn DelaMater, Haine Hannay, and others.

We were extremely proud of the versatility of our activities this year,
and it seems prudent here to list them so they may better remain in our
memories:

Six new clubs were chartered — Civic Center (2), Camden (5),

Webster (7), Amherst (8), Peekskill (9), and Roslyn (10).

gue membership at the end of May reached 7096, with a total of 138

clubs.

Manuals of Instructions were prepared and presented to each State

Officer, Committee Chairman and District Director.

A new brochure “An Opportunity” was released, under the capable

direction of Loretta Spacek, Second Vice President, Caroline Slocum,

Past State President, and Peggy Rolloson and other members of TSA,

. Press Book Rules were standardized and the Public Relations structure
changed under new Public Relations Chairman, Joyce Nixon.

The State Federation agreed to cooperate with Continental I

Co. to promote Accident and Health Group Insurance presently held

by some of our members, in an effort to prevent cancellation of present

policies, and give the opportunity of excellent insurance benefits to

other members.

: NICE was assisted in the covering of its expenses by the BOOSTER
plan.

sea

PF 2S NS

aa

_

43


4

=

1963

$100 was contributed to the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing
Arts in Washington, D.C. in tribute to our late President.

9. “BPW Opens Its Heart” was adopted as a slogan for Valentine’s Day,
with special emphasis on the visiting of shut-ins in hospitals, nursing
homes, sanitariums, etc.

10. Much time was spent in planning for a BPW Day at the World’s Fair,
and hostessing of the Women’s Activity Lounge for a week.

11. The Visiting Teams Project was continued for the purpose of better
strengthening our present clubs and giving impetus to new ones.

12. A JETS Committee functioned state-wide, to help mature women
secure information about job and education opportunities through

uestionnaires, publicity and State Government departments.

138. $6364 ‘was contributed to our CARE project by the clubs in the State.

We were extremely proud to have our State President, Ruth Sturm,
appointed to the Governor’s Committee on the Education and Employment
of Women, where she headed a subcommittee on Law and Civil Service.

‘A second committee member was Mrs. Carmel Marr, member of the Lena
Madesin Phillips Club.

Mary Frances Harvey of the Manhattan Club was awarded the 1964
United Nations Fellowship by the National Federation. Cecile Fox, New York
League, was appointed by the National Federation as alternate observer at
the U:N. and Pearl Richardson, Lena Madesin Phillips Club, was appointed
second alternate.

‘At least one very important appointment was made — Caroline E, Simon
to the New York State Court of Claims. Throughout the state, seventeen
women were elected, twenty-two reelected, to public office; sixty-seven were
appointed, and three reappointed. Included were three negro women, one
of whom was the first negro woman elected to the New York State Senate in
187 years.

We were most happy to entertain and extend appropriate courtesies to
Miss Elizabeth Feller of Siyitzerland, former international Federation
President, and to Mrs. Kawai, a member of the Japanese Federation, here on
a UNESCO tour for Women Adult Education Leaders.

‘At our State Convention at Whiteface Inn in May 1964, we had as our
National Representative, Miss Sarah Jane Cunningham, Third National Vice
President, We finished the year with over seven thousand members in the
state, and to do justice to increased demands and provide better service to our
clubs, the state dues were increased 50/ per member . . . The Frances Marlatt
Award was transferred from Civic Participation Committee to the Women
in Policy Making Posts in an effort to give this award more emphasis . .. We
learned of the resignation of our most capable Executive Director National
Ruby Sills, and were saddened to hear of the death of our beloved Past
National President, Dr. Minnie L. Maffett ... A special committee was ap-

jointed to study needs of young people and the methods by which the New
Fork State Federation could promote education and empl of youth.
Our Scholarship Fund was enriched by $638 derived from the corsages at
the Scholarship Luncheon, at which time three $1000 awards were presented
to young women for furthering their education.

In an effort to widen the scope of our organization, a suggestion was
submitted to the National Federation that consideration be given to sponsoring
nation-wide publicity and an advertising campaign in leading magazines to
inform the general public of our aims, purposes and accomplishments.

A fifdl to our objectives was p d and ap d at our
state convention: to promote the participation of business and professional
women in community and governmental activities at all levels, This recom-
mendation was also forwarded to the National Federation.

=

1964

From the time the 1964 Post Convention Board Meeting took place ve:
hurriedly at Whiteface Inn, and we were almost forceably ejected to soak wey
for another incoming convention, the 1964-65 pace was set. President Lucile
M. Kinne lost no time in naming committees, assigning work, planning meetings
and getting the “show on the road.” Our theme for the year was “Full Partner-
ship with Youth.”

Our first and major duty was to get Katherine King elected as National
‘Treasurer, which we did — gloriously and glamourously — in “One Shining
Hour.” Clare Garrity was Campaign Manager, Clara O'Brien, New York State
Convention Chairman. Our New York State reception was an outstanding
event; our State President served as a member of the National Board Rules
Committee; Loretta Spacek represented us on the National Nominating Com-
mittee; Ruth Sturm on the Legislative Committee; and Ruth Kassowitz and
Ruth Ginther served on the elections, We received an award for our Com-
mittee on the Status of Women, and also for our JETS program, and our

‘or publicizing our ization ona nation level was considered,

and a committee appointed for further study. We were proud to have 65

voting delegates at the National Convention in Detroit.

On August Iat we had a vory special day atthe New York Wodd’s Fait.
Our National President, Dorothy Ford (and her husband), Cravens Douglas,
National Membership Chairman, former and present State Officers, State
Presidents from Connecticut, Delaware and the District of Columbia, as well
as members and guests, were treated to the royal tour of exhibits, assembled
in the New York State Pavilion, enjoyed smorgasbord in the Minnesota
building, and returned to the International Hotel for a reception and banquet.
We were highly complimented for the affair by National, who felt it should
be repeated in 1965. Our members also hostessed the Women’s Activity Lounge
in the Better Living Building during the week of July 13-19, New York State
members sold a total of $34,568 in tickets to the fair, thereby winning the
right to an exclusive “Day.”

The following special conferences were held during the year:

June 19-20 — Informal Board Meeting, Utica. Planning for the coming year by
State Officers, District Directors and Committee Chairmen

August 7-9 — Weekend on Cornell Campus, Personal-Development in coopera-
tion with NYS School of Industrial and Labor Relations — 27 attended

August 28-30 — National Leadership Conference, Providence, R.I. — 9 attended

November 7-8 — Membership Jamboree in Albany, with National Membership
Chairman, Crayens Douglas. Katherine King, Ruth Sturm and Loretta
Spacek participated, 154 attended from seven states.

Feb. 21-23 — Legislative Conference in Albany. Theme: “Home Rule — Fact
or Fiction.” Chairman, Margaret Ralston, with Hulday Segal as our
official State Lobbyist.

e were well represented by our members at the Women’s Luncheon on

Sept. 2 at the State Exposition in Syracuse. Our booth “Spotlighted Women”

was tastefully arranged by Mary Amato of the North Syracuse Club and

Margaret Brady of Kastwood, past Director of District Five. The Geddes Club

received a $100 award from the Exposition for their “Loan Closet.”

Our Pall Board Meeting was held at the Statler-Hilton Hotel in Buffalo on
Sept. 26-27 with 103 delegates and 143 attending the banquet. A great deal
of necessary and important business was transacted. We agreed to sponsor the
sale of front license plates with “NEW YORK STATE BUSINESS AND
PROFESSIONAL OMEN’S CLUBS” on them to publicize our organization,
and Joyce Nixon, our Public Relations Chairman, was in charge of this

45


46

1964

project... Alma Danaher was named Chairman of a special committee to
study the feasibility of financing State Conventions on a state level . .. we also
supported the New York State Traffic Safety Couneil’s program ts reduce
accidents . .. The “Apple” luncheon put on by District Bight, was unusual to
say the least. Baskcts of apples decorated the tables, and jars of applesauce were
given Lo each guest as she left the room. Highlights of the National Convention
were individually reported by the State Officers, and an elegant “Parade of
Hats” brought forth ecstatic comments from those present. The banquet in
the Golden Ballroom of the Statler-Hilton, was the epitome of perfection in
every detail. Kae Dutcher, who was Chairman of the session, planned the
decor in keeping with the room — in regal gold and white, with white
chrysanthemum corsages with gold leaves, and white favors with gold flowers.
‘The dinner was superb and Past President Margaret Barnard gave us an all-too-
short resume of her trip to Athens, Vienna and Germany, in conjunction

with an International Labor Conference in Geneva. Her topic: “Women
Workers in a Changing World.”

A reception ‘for Katherine King was held October 31 in thé Powers Hotel
in Rochester, sponsored by her own Webster Club. Many members from all
over the State attended, as well as guests from other states. It was a proud
occasion for the State Iederation in recognition of her election to National
Treasurer. . . ; —

Our Winter Board Meeting was held in the Hotel Syracuse, in Syracuse,
January 22-24. Once again the weather almost defeated us and kept some away
because of treacherous roads; but upstate New York in winter was compensated
by the warm and genuine hospitality of District Five and the “gals from
Syracuse.” The theme was ““Today’s Vision — Tomorrow’s Image, and the

program was well thought-out and constructive. Informality was the keynote
of the entire session, from the Friday night’s discussions by our State Officers,
through the luncheon on Saturday, at which time no stated program was
arranged. Those altending sat at tables with others interested in the same subject,
and much was accomplished by deep, and cven at times, heated discussion. The
banquet speaker, Dr. Marguerite (our own Judy) Fisher, gave a direct report

of her recent trip to “Africa — The Exploding Continent.” If it had been timed,
it might haye taken forty-five minutes — but her audience could have listened
enthralled for hours as she led us from country to country and scene to scene —
some of horror and deprivation, some of unbelievable progress and educa-
tional enligk A deeply, thought-provoking sindy of alittle known
continent, even today in our supposedly enlightened world . .. It was voted to
extend an invitation to the National Federation to hold the 1967 National
Convention in New York State. It was also voted to bring changes of bylaws
before the State Convention in May to add a fifth objective, and vote on one
year terms for state officers.

Following the State Board Meeting, twenty-seven of our members left by
air to visit the Strategic Air Command installation in Omaha, Nebraska under
the leadership of Cecile Fox, President of the New York League Club.

Several changes took place during the year. Perhaps the most important—
National Business Women’s Week was el anged from fall to spring, with the
observance held March 7-13 on the theme “Springtime Salute to Working
Women.” Many of the clubs observed the fall date, some, the spring, and a few
industrious ones, both. On the State level, our magazine, NIKE, was drastically
changed in size and format, but a great increase in information made it com-
mendable as a state news media.

‘e were represented at the formal opening of the Information Pavilion
of the Hall of Fame for Great Americans at the New York University Campus
in Bronx on May 30, 1964. Esther Olson of the New York League placed

1964
a wreath for Susan B. Anthony in the name of the New York State Business
and Professional Women’s Clubs. Thirty-three organizations participated in this
dedication.

A Top Hat Award Banquet was held March 22, 1965 at the Statler-Hilton
in Buffalo, at which time our National Federation President, Dorothy Ford,
presented awards to Hon. Frances Perkins, member of Cornell University

faculty and former U.S. Seeretary of Labor, to the American Nurses Assn.,
American Airlines, and the Corn Products Co. for their support of women in
business and industry.

Many honors come to the members each year and this was no exception.
Our Past State President Margaret Barnard was asked to serve on the Advisory
Committee to our National Tederation President. Past President Ruth Sturm
attended a reception at the White House and met President Johnson, in her
capacity as a member of the Goyernor’s Committee on the Status of Women.
President Lucile Kinne received many honors: she was made a member of the
National Senior Citizens; Admiral of the Flagship Fleet of American Airlines;
given the title of Lady Hilton from the Statler-Hilton chain of hotels;
received a degree from Offcut Air Base; Women of Achievement Award from
the Amherst Club; asked to serve as Resolutions and Bylaws Chairman for the
Women’s Civil Defense Council of New York State, and was selected to have
her favorite recipe printed in the Washington Press Book. She was invited
by Lowell Thomas to membership in the International Platform Association.

‘These are wonderful personal honors, but through the person, our
organization grows stronger and receives more recognition. It is quite fitting to
close this year’s history with a poem which was used as an invocation at the
Syracuse Board Meeting, and which could be an axiom for each of us to live by:

Thave to live with myself, and so

I want to be fit for myself to know.

T want to be able, as days go by,

Always to look myself straight in the oye.

I don’t want to stand, with the setting sun

And hate myself for the things I’ve done,
I want to go out with my head erect,
want to deserve all men’s respect.

T don’t want to look at myself and know

That I’m bluster and bluff and empty show,
I never can hide myself from me,

T see what others may never see.

IT know what others may never know,
T never can fool myself, and so,
Whatever happens I want to be
Self-respecting and conscience free.

TASK GOD'S HELP — SO TO BE.

1965

“Today’s Vision — Tomorrow’s Image,” was the theme for a dynamic
46th State Convention held at the Americana in New York City, Our Federation
theme for the year was, “Plan for Progress.”

140 New York State members attended the National Convention in
Washington, D.C., July 25-29; some staying over to sit in on the International
Congress which convened on July 30. Lorraine Rouget represented us on the


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club name

year chartered:
offices held:

name

year joined:
committees held:

remarks:

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50

Ne

1965

National Nominating Committee; Margaret Ralston served as a member of the
National Legislative Platform Committee and Clare Garrity was chairman of

the Timekeepers Committee. Clare also presented three recommendations on
behalf of the New York State Federation, two of which were carried. A Civic
Participation Citation was presented to Syracuse Club for its booklet on local
government and Youthpower, USA Citation was received by Supervisors and
Administrators Club of New York City for its career guidance material dis-
tributed to junior and senior high schools. It was voted that New York State
would hostess the 1967 National Convention. Clara O’Brien served as Chairman
of the New York State Reception, an outstanding affair each year and which,

in 1965, attracted most of the ional delegates as well as hundreds of
National members and their guests. Peg Marohn was our Fund Raising Chairman;
Gertrude Smith, Contact Chairman for Hotel Reservations; Estella Rouget
acted as hostess in the New York State Suite and Margaret Brady did a beautiful
job of packaging and presenting gifts to members of the National Board.

Ke the International Congress, Margaret Barnard was Hospitality Chairman
for our International guests. Marcella VanTuyl and Edith Jones entertained
visitors before and after the Congress.

National Federation appointed Margaret Ruth Thomas to serve as
Observer to the United Nations, and named Cecile Fox Alternate Observer. Kay
King was appointed Chairman of the International Federation’s Finance Com-
mittee.

August 7, 1965 was Business and Professional Women’s Day at the World’s
Fair. Florence Louth seryed as Chairman of the important event, assisted by
Betty Eastman, Hospitality Chairman; Margaret Eve and Ada Purdy. In the
morning, members and guests met in the New York State Pavilion where photos
were taken of our international guests and other visitors. The group toured the
State Pavilion and then visited some Fair exhibits, meeting again at 3 p.m. at
the Women’s Hospitality Center for a Tea which 107 women attended. We were
delighted to have among our guests, immediate Past National President, Dorothy
Ford, her husband, Clyde, and her secretary, Marilyn DeRose; two of our vice

residents, Loretta Spacek and Lorraine Rouget; Clare Garrity; Constance
breed, President of the Connecticut Federation and members from several other
state federations. Highlight of the day’s activities was Florence Louth’s presenta-
tion to President Lucile Kinne of a citation signed by Robert Moses, for New
York State Federation’s participation in this special BPW Day at the World’s Fair.

A Leadership Conference, conducted by Dorothy and Clyde Ford, was
held August 13-15 at Malone with forty four members attending. This Con-
ference was a capsuled form of a regular eighteen month college course given in
the California schools

Women’s Day Luncheon was the bright spot at the Syracuse State Exposi-
tion on September 1, Many of our members helped at the Civil Defense Both
and acted as hostesses at the Arts and Crafts Center.

ur Fall Board:Meeting was held on October 1-3 at Plainview, Long Island,
with the clubs of District Ten as hostesses.

Albany was again the site of pur Membership ‘Tee-Off November 12-14,
conducted by Lorraine Rouget, Membership Chairman. Margaret Alyce Avery,
National Membership Chairman attended this exciting workshop.

January 21-23 found us snowed-in at the Winter Board Meeting held in
Rochester. The Meeting’s theme was “Goals for Progress.” The Syracuse Club
received the Membership Program Award for the competition which ran from
September 1 through December 1, 1965,

The Legislative Conference held in Albany, February 20-22 emphasized
“Keep America Beautiful — Nationally, State-wide and in the Home Town.”

Our Youthpower, USA Conference was held on March 12 at Syracuse
University. One hundred and sixty young women, sponsored by B&PW and/or

1965
business, industry and schools in their localities, attended this fast-paced
Conference. Indication of its success was the oft-repeated suggestion of these
young women that they hoped this was only the first of a continuing annual
conference,

Lucile Kinne was nominated by the State Board of Directors for the
office of Chairman of the National Nominating Committee.

On the CBS TV program “National Income Tax,” 100 members of our
Federation competed with the Rotary Club. This is a “first”” on a nation-wide
hook-up for our State Federation.

‘A Mental Health Symposium, “Programs and Projects for 1966-67” led
by our Mental Health Chairman, Mary U. Fiorilla was held at Williamsville.

National Business Women’s Week was observed March 6-12 marking a
“Springtime Salute to Working Women.”

President Lucile was the recipient of the Susan B. Anthony Award
presented by the Inter Club Council of Western New York.

Third Vice President Olive Deuel was appointed by Governor Rockefeller
to the New York Women’s Council.

Our membership reached 7200 and seven new clubs were chartered during
1965-66. The new clubs were: North Shore, Eastchester, Metropolitan Club of
Syracuse, Sk les, Ossining, k, and Potsdam.

1966

“Our Role in Tomorrow's World” was the theme for the 47th State Con-
vention held at Hotel Sagamore, Lake George, New York. Our National
Representative was First Vice President Mabel McClanahan. Total registration
was 577. Three Grace LeGendre Fellowships of $1000 each were awarded to
women for continuation of graduate study.

Our Federation theme of the year was “Plan for Progress.”

Two firsts, under discussion for many years, marked the beginning of the
1966-1967 State year. The State Office was established in Albany to determine
whether or not a state office not in the immediate vicinity of the State President
would be a workable arrangement. The publisher of NIKE, for 1964-66 was
retained and, in addition to the NIKE Editor and Circulation Manager, was lo-
cated hundreds of miles outside the area of the State President’s home cer

The National Convention was held in Atlanta, Georgia, July 24-28. High-
lights for the New York State Federation during the National Convention were
the election of Lucile Kinne as National Nominating Committee Chairman after
two days of balloting due to the number of nominees and the need to obtain a
majority vote; the reappointment of Margaret Ruth Thomas and Cecile Fox as
National’s Observer aa. Alternate Observer, respectively, to the United Nations;
the millinery delights designed and made by Dorothy Baylor that were worn
by our members during the business sessions; the magnificent New York State
reception in the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott which had taken months of
Bea Marble’s and Elsie Harvey’s time; and-the Top Hat Awards given to the
American Stock Exchange and McGraw Hill by our National Federation.

New Yorkers in the spotlight at Atlanta were: Clare Garrity, our repre-
sentative on the National Nominating Committee and Lucile Kinne’s campaign
manager; Carolyn DeLaMater, our representative on the National Legislative
Platform Committee; Ruth Sturm, serving on the Resolutions Committee;
Peggy Norton Rollason, serving as Chairman of the Floor Tellers Committee;
Sharon Davidson, our young careerist; Elsie Harvey, serving on the Election
Committee, and Beatrice Sheffield, preparing her “PR” releases,

We were gratified that the intent of the New York State Resolution,
passed at State C i ing Help Wanted adverti in relation


52

to Section 704 (b) of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, was adopted in a resolution
proposed by the National Legislation Committee. We realized.that resistance to
change is ever present when New York State’s proposed Fifth Objective was
defeated. Undaunted, we will try again in 1967, The revamping and new look of
the National Legislative Platform was a challenge to each State Federation to
take similar action.

Our Fall Board Meeting was held September 30, October 1, 2 at Lake
George Inn with the clubs of District Four as hostesses and Frances Ott,
Chairman, The theme was “Programming Our Role in Tomorrow’s World.”
There were 215 attendees. Guest speaker was Dr. Dorothy Gregg, Assistant
Staff Director, Educational Service, U.S, Steel Corp., and a member of the New
York League Business and Professional Women’s Club, District One. Her topic
was “Social Responsibilities of Business and Professional Women.”

uth Sturm was endorsed by the State Federation at this meeting for the
position of Judge of the United States Customs Court. The State Federation
also endorsed Ruth Sturm for a 1967-68 National Chairmanship, viz., Legisla-
tion Committee.

Subsequent to the Fall Board Meeting our National Federation endorsed
Ruth Sturm for the above ioned judgeship, which was acclaimed by our
own State Federation and many prominent individuals. We share Ruth’s glo
in these endorsements and hope the day will soon come when this action will
propel her into the judgeship which she so richly deserves.

; Lucile Kinne was elected President of the New York State Women’s Civil
Defense Council at its annual meeting in Albany, October 25-26, 1966 and
Loretta Spacek, State President, was chaii of the Membership Commi

January 27-29 found 280 of us at the Hotel Biltmore in New York City,
the “Fun City,” for our Winter Board Meeting. The meeting theme was
“Promoting Our Role in Tomorrow’s World,” with District Two as hostesses
and Norine Augus, Chairman. Miss Jo Foxworth, Vice President and Creative
Director of Calkins & Holden of the Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc., was
the luncheon speaker. Her topic was “The. Ugly Hour.” A ‘first-time’ breakfast
for Club Presidents was a feature that has been asked to he repeated.

The Fifteenth Annual Legislative Conference was held in the Shine Ten
Eyck Hotel, Albany, February 19-21. The Conference theme was “Laws in
Transition — Be Prepared for Changes.” Conference highlights included our State
President’s private visit with Governor Rockefeller; the Governor’s hour-long
yisit with attendees in the Red Room of the Capitol; and the unique idea of a
“Meet Your Legislators Cocktail Party and Buffet.” Florence Louth, Chairman,
and her committee also featured the conference by honoring Grace Gustafson
“Miss BPW” and Ruth Kessler Toch, the first woman appointed Solicitor
General of New York State.

‘ hi

for rrow’s Cc ity” was the theme for the second
Youthpower Leadership Conference held at Syracuse University, April 7-9,
chaired by Marion Meyer. Two hundred and forty attended,with BPW and other
organizations sponsoring 168 high school juniors and seniors.
We were proud of the women who were appointed or elected to policy
making posts in our State this year, many of whom were BPW members:
Ruth Kessler Toch, we have already mentioned; Beatrice Judge was elected a
New York State Supreme Court Judge; Leah Simmons of Lewiston was ap-
pomted the new principal of the Niagara Falls High School; Miss Mary J.
anarites of the Herkimer County Club was appointed Ilion Village Attorney,
the first women in the 114 year history; Mrs. June Martin of the Latham Club
was appointed to the Temporary State Commission to prepare for the
Constitutional Conyention,
Mrs. Pauline Graubner Bush, a charter member of the Horseheads BPW
Club, was appointed by Governor Rockefeller to the New York State Women’s

1966
Council. He also appointed Mrs. Exsa Poston as President of the Civil Service
Commission, and Miss Evelyn Cunningham, Miss Nina Jones, and Mrs. Betty
Gaucas Flood to the newly created Women’s Unit, with Mrs. June Martin as
Consultant.

Our own State President, Loretta attained a new position with Western
Electric. What a challenge for her to find herself promoted to two positions of
leadership for this year.

Another activity was added to our 1967 State Convention plans with the
incep of a State rs ion Exhibits C i ‘he revenue realized
through the efforts of this committee will help to offsct the rising administrative
costs of our State Federation.

The New York State Business and Professional Women’s Frances Perkins
Memorial at Hoosac was a continuing project, the consummation of which we
look forward to in late ’67. We hail the efforts of Lucy Milligan of the New York
League BPW Club for her promotion of this project.

We were happy to welcome three new clubs: Greene (6), Fulton Chain
of Lakes at Old Forge (5), and Eastern Queens (10). Our membership reached
71

1.

“The W’s of BPW” was the theme for the 48th Annual State Convention
held at the Hotel Syracuse in Syracuse, New York, May 27-30, 1967. The
District V Clubs were hostesses and Miss Margaret Brady was chairman. The
National representative was Mrs. Hope Roberts, First Vice President of the
National Federation.

President Loretta Spacek presided at all sessions. There were several firsts
at this Convention. A recommendation made by President Spacek in her annual
report that the Business and Professional Women’s Clubs of New York State,
Inc. establish a permanent State Office and employ a State Office Secretary
beginning with the Club year 1968-1969 was passed after it was amended to
read 1969-1970; paid oxhibits were a first time event at State Convention; Club
flags made by individual Clubs were displayed for the first time; and Club
Presidents were introduced by the District Directors.

Approved changes in the State by-laws included: 1. the election of
assistant Bistict Directors shall also be ratified by the Board of Directors of
the Business and Professional Women’s Clubs of New York State, Inc. at its
next meeting; 2, annual dues shall be $7.00 instead of $6.55; 3. a first and
second alternate shall be elected who shall serve on the State Nominating Com-
mittee, as necessary to fill vacancies.

‘The name Youthpower Leadership Conference was changed to Youth
Leadership Conf anda dation to continue to sponsor them
was passed,

“Woman—Fact or Fantasy?” was the topic of Mrs. Roberts, National First
Vice-President, chose for her speech at the formal banquet on May 29. Mrs.
Lucile M. Kinne, National Nominating Committee chairman, installed the newly
elected officers and Miss Ruth F. Sturm, past State President, installed the

District Directors.
1967

— Of Ships and Sails and Sealing Wax —

With this theme the New York State Federation sailed forth, a member
of the Ship of Commerce Fleet, into the 1967-1968 club year, to Plan for
Progress, All Systems Go, as a working partner within our National Federation.

Our first major challenge and responsibility was to serve as the host state
for the 1967 National Convention held in New York City, July 23-27, with the

53 |


1967

Area 4 states serving as the general hostess area. This was a monumental task
and special tribute should be paid to Clare Garrity, National Convention Con-
tact Chairman; all of the clubs in our state who so generously contributed to the
1967 National Convention Fund under the leadership of Mildred Freeman,

and to the many members who gave of their time and effort. More than 300
New York State members registered in the New York State suite and approxi-
mately 500 members participated in some capacity. Lucile Kinne’s idea of
having New York State members wear white dresses with red, white and blue
scarves was very effective. Lucile Kinne was appointed to the National Member-
ship Committee, Margaret Ruth Thomas as National Observer to the United
Nations and Cecile Fox as alternate Observer.

Our President, Lorraine Rouget, did a herculean task during the summer
of visiting every District in the State. These visits were informal, everyone had
a good time, and they did much to bring about a better understanding of BPW
among the members at the grass roots. Lorraine was beginning the year by
making real the year’s National theme “Plan for Progress, All Systems Go.”
For the first time, State ropremme were developed and distributed to the clubs
for their use in developing their club programs,

The Fall Board Mectin, was held in Plattsburgh, New York under the
chairmanship of Mrs. Jewel S. Wood with District 11 serving as the hostess area.
Upon the recommendation of President Rouget, that the President-elect system,
be restudied, the Board voted to authorize the President to appoint a com-
mittee to re-study the feasibility of adopting the President-elect systom and to
report at the Winter Board Meeting. The Board also voted on the recommenda-
tion of Margaret Brady, 1967 Convention Chairman, 1. to accept registration
fees only up to five days before the Convention date. Late registration to be
paid at the registration desk. This will allow the committee to set up their
records in advance and it also gives preference to those who register early.
2. To designate standard colors for the.various categories of identification
badges, the colors to be determined by the Executive Committee.

In unusual action, after a comprehensi ion an
tion by the Civic Participation Chairman, Olive Deuel, the Board voted to
support the New York State Transportation Bond Issue. All members were
urged to vote “‘yes” on this issue at the November election.

On Saturday afternoon members had the opportunity to tour SAC Air
Force Base at Plattsburgh or to visit Expo ’67 at Montreal and have dinner
at the Hospitality Pavilion at Expo, The SAC tour was arranged with the co-
operation of the Base and the Expo tour was arranged with the cooperation
of the Montreal BPW Club.

In November, under the very capable jade: of Carolyn E, DeLaMater,
Second Vice President and Membership Chairman, a Membership Briefing Con-
ference was held at Kingston, New York. Osta Underwood, National Member-
ship Chairman,participated. This conference was outstanding and brought
honor to our Federation and much assistance to our members.

The Winter Board Meeting was held at the Biltmore Hotel in New York
City January 19-21, 1968 with members of District 1 acting as hostesses and
Miss Margaret Marra serving as Chairman. The President reported that the
Small Business Clinics developed in two Districts were very successful and
worthwhile and that other Districts were planning them for spring. Two recom-
mendations were presented by the President and passed: 1. That the Executive

ittee appoint a ittee to plan a celebrati wi
the achievements of our State Federation to celebrate its golden anniversary in
1969, 2. That, pursuant to action taken at State Convention, a committee be

iblished to study and d to the 1968 State Convention a site for a
permanent State Office.

d

1967

A Leadership Conference for all members in attendance was held on
Saturday. This Conf Was sp d by the State Federation and Depart-
ment of Business Education, Hunter College of the City University of New
York. The keynote speakers were Drs. Ethel and Burt Aginsky, anthropologists.
Following their f ions, eleven workshops were condi d by eleven
top qualified wornen, Dr. Dorothy Ford, Coordinator of Distributive Education
Departments, Los Angeles, California County Schools, and a Past National
President, was the luncheon speaker,
. ‘The Lockport BPW Club presented $100 to the State Scholarship Fund
in memory of Gracia Williams, a charter member of their club and a past
Director of District 8. She passed away in December 1967.

A recommendation was presented by the special committee appointed
to study the President-elect system and passed that the By-laws committee pre-

are amendments to the current by-laws necessary to create the office of

Heaident<leet and present them to the delegates at the annual Convention
in .

The Board voted to endorse Lucile M. Kinne for a National Office, either
as a Vice President or committee chairman.

It was also yoted that the Executi ittee establish a certificate to
he used by various committees for the purpose of awards.

The 16th Annual State Legislative Conference was held at the Schine ‘'en
Eyck Hotel, Albany, New York, February 10-12, 1968, The theme, “The Crime
Problem As It Exists Today,” was a very pertinent one for the times. It was an
informative, excellent conference. Kay Karl was chairman and the ‘Albany
Club was the hostess club. The program was in memory of Mary E. O’Connor,
originator of the New York State Legislative Conference.

The Youth Leadership Conf under the chai ship of Jean P.
Russell, was held at Syracuse University March 15, 16, 17 for high school
seniors. This year a special program was planned for the adults in attendance
with the girls.

Continuing with the theme “Of Ships and Sails and Sealing Wax” the
1967-1968 Club year ended at the conclusion of the 49th annual State Conven-
tion held at Lido Beach, Long Island, May 29 to June 1, 1968. The National
representative was Mrs. Myra Ruth Freed Harmon, First Vice President, New
York State was also honored to have our National President, Mrs. Mabel R.
McClanahan, with us during the Convention,

‘Two important changes affecting our State Federation were adopted at
the Convention. The delegates voted 1. to establish a permanent State Office in
Utica, New York; 2. to amend the by-laws to include the office of President-
elect and to eliminate the office of Third Vice President.

Several new features were included in the program of this Convention.
Most colorful among the innovations was a Leadership program presented on
Thursday evening. The traditional Presidents’ March was conducted as part
of this program. In addition, each club president was spotlighted on the stage
and introduced by her District Director. At this time the Past State Presidents
of District Nine, the Convention Hostess District, presented each club president
with an orchid, the gift of the hostess District.

Mabel R. McClanahan, the National President, delivered an inspiring
address on the Collect.

_ Stressed throughout the Conyention, in addition to the year’s theme
which highlighted o bership pl. by National on the Ship of
‘ommerce Fleet) was the concept of continuity.

Registration at the Convention was 609, the largest attendance at any
Convention.

During the year one Nike Club and one Samothrace Club were organized.
Nike Club — Silver Creek
Samothrace Club — Pace College

55


1967

New Clubs — Chatham — District 3
Farrington — District 11
Gleneida — District 9

Hudson Valley — District 4 : ;
Our membership on May 31, 1968 was 7,525 which is an increase of 201
over last year. The year closed with 144 clubs.

1968

With All the Hopes for Future Years
All Systems Go—Unite, Share, Act

This is the theme under which Mrs. Mildred B. Freeman, newly elected
President of the Business and Professional Women’s Clubs of New York State,
Inc., began her responsibilities as leader for the pro-Golden Anniversary year
1968-1969. a

The 1968 National C was held in M p
July 20-25. Some 60-70 delegates, alternates and members attended from New
York State. Miss Lorraine Rouget, immediate past State President, and
Mrs. Carolyn DeLaMater, past membership chairman, had the honor of accept-
ing the Nike Trophy award for the New York State Federation, We received
the award because our May 31, 1968 membership had shown the greatest

ercentage increase over the May 31, 1967 membership in our grouping in the
Rational competition, the Ship of Commerce. As an incentive to keep our
membership up during 1968-1969, we were awarded the Torch pin which our
President was allowed to wear and keep until our membership went down.
She wore it one month. , ;

‘Three New York State members received National a piointaiegs— veils
Kinne to the Membership committee, Loretta Spacek to the Resolutions
committee, and Cecile Fox as United Nations Observer. Of the ten Top Hat ;
Awards presented, four were given to people or organizations in New York State.

Donna Rodden, President of the Albion Club, served as General Contact
chairman for the New York State Federation. Aided by her mother and
daughter and members of the Albion Club, she did an excellent job of setting
up and manning the hospitality room. The New York State reception, arranged
and supervised-by Beatrice Marble and her committee, was an outstanding
success. , ,

‘A motion made by Clare Garrity was passed that expensive National
programs at our National Conventions be curtailed. Mrs. Freeman, a member of
Tre National Board, and Mrs. DeLaMater, President-elect who was invited
by National as an Observer, attended the pre-convention and post-convention
Board meetings. Lorraine Rouget represented our Federation on the Nomi-
nating committee and Clare Garrity on the National Legislative Platform
committee. |

The Colonial Motor Inn at Vestal, New York, was the meeting place for
the Fall 1968 State Board meeting October 4, 5, 6. Mrs. Freeman, presided at
all sessions. Mrs. Juanita Jones was chairman for the meeting with District
Director Florence Bluemke and clubs in District VI serving as hostesses. For
the first time in a number of years a Membership Confe was bined
with the Board meeting. The first report by the chairman of a newly formed
special committee, the Status of Women, was presented by Ruth Sturm.

Beginning in 1969 National Convention dues will be $3.00 per year for
each club instead of $2.00. Loretta Spacek was nominated as a candidate
for the National Office of Chairman of the National Nominating committee to
be elected at the National Conyention in July 1969. Lucile Kinne was endorsed

1968
as Chairman of the National Membership committee for 1969-1970.

It was announced that 50th Anniversary Commemorative BPW Seals are
available from the State Office for $2.00 per 100 Seals.

‘A motion was passed that a special committee be appointed by the
Executive Board to update the manual of duties of officers and standing com-
mittee chairmen.

Peg Marohn presented an excellent program on membership Saturday
afternoon. Members of the Delhi, Hancock, Norwich and Sidney clubs
participated. The 1968-1969 formula for membership FE. + C + FU = Success

shusiasm plus ication plus follow-up equals success) was stressed
throughout the program.
rs. Katherine King, a past President of our Federation, was re-appointed
chairman of the Finance committee at the Eleventh International Congress
in London, England, August 1924, 1968, In this capacity she serves as a member
of the Executive Committee of the International Federation.

The Winter Board meeting and 17th Annual Legislative Conference were
held at the Thruway Motor Inn, Albany, New York, January 24, 25, 26 and 27,
1969, President Mildred presided at all sessions. Helen Carmody, Director of
District [V, and the clubs in District IV were the hostesses. Dorothy VanSchaick,
Assistant District Director, was chairman of the Board meeting and Mary Ann
Krupsak was chairman for the Legislative Conference. Each club in the District
was assigned a specific responsibility for some part of the program.

In her report, our President said special emphasis this year is urged by
National to bring into sharp focus the work of the Foundation. Mrs. Elsie Stark
Martin, our State Foundation Chairman, made a special plea for contributions
from members and clubs to the Foundation. She reported that the New York
League had contributed $500 to the Foundation to honor its 1919’ers. Later
she announced that $206.50 had been contributed by members attending
the Board meeting.

Mildred Freeman spoke on membership at the workshop luncheon on
Saturday and prizes were awarded to all members who had brought in a new
member since October 1968. In her report Mary Ann Bentham, chairman of the
Personal Development committee, urged clubs to take advantage of the new
program offered by National under the “Individual Development Plan.”

Ruth Sturm, chairman of the newly created Status of Women committee,
chaired a workshop following the luncheon titled “There Is Plenty of Roo
At the Top, But How Far Can Women Go?” Panelists included Mrs. Inger
Jewell, Kay Karl, Mrs. Muriel Chambers and Mrs. June Martin.

Public Relations chairman, Loretta Rich, reported on special radio and
TY publicity material that will be available for use by clubs to bring to the
attention of the public our 50th Anniversary.

The Board approved the recommendation of the Executive Committee
that the Presidonteleet be empowered to sign the lease and make the necessary
financial arrangements to carry on the State Office in Utica.

Each club was asked to send to Carolyn DeLaMater at least one S & H
Green Stamp book or other stamp book to help in acquiring equipment for the
new State Office in Utica.

“Give a Damn” was the theme for the Legislative Conference which
convened Sunday evening. The theme was borrowed from New York City’s
Mayor Lindsay and it was hoped the program would stimulate members to
actively participate in their communities to help where help is needed. Clare T.
Garrity, State Legislative Chairman, presented the State Legislative Platform
nd Congressman Samuel S. Stratton was the speaker at the Sunday evening

inner.

Monday morning a disti d panel of | d their views
on problems facing our society today. Panelists were: Mrs. Rose Aulisi, cur-

57


nn Sia ie

riculum coordinator and i in the Greater A dam School District;
Assemblyman Neil W. Kellcher; Senator Thomas LaVerne; and Senator Ronald
B. Stratford. The Monday luncheon speaker was New York State Attorney
General Louis Lefkowitz. It was heartening to see the number of Legislators
who accepted invitations to attend the reception and hanquet held in their
honor Monday evening. Dr. Jack Sable, Director of the New York State Office
of Economic Opportunity was the speaker.

The fourth Youth Leadership Conf under the ip of
Josephine Bordonaro was held at Syracuse University April 11-13, 1960. One
hundred seventy-five junior and senior high school girls sponsored by clubs
around the state attended. Clubs in District V were hostesses,

All the members in our State Faderation were'saddened to hear of the
death of our President’s husband, Gerald Freeman, on May 13, 1969.

The 50th Anniversary Convention of the Business and Professional
Women’s Clubs of New York State, Inc. opened on May 29, 1969 at the new
Flagship Rochester, Rochester, New York and continued throu h June 1. The
National Representative to the Conyention was Mrs. Jeanne C. Squire,

National Treasurer. Mrs. Katherine King, a past State President, was the chair-
man. Mrs. Margaret Walsh, Director of District VII, and the clubs in District
VII were hostesses for this Golden Anniversary Convention.

The theme of the Convention “Pride: In the Past 1919; Promise: for the
Future 1969” was felt throughout the entire Convention. At the opening
session Mrs. Squire read a letter and presented a single cast gold coin to our
President from the National President, Hope Roberts. Mrs. Ereeman was also
presented the key to Rochester by the Mayor.

Four young Career Women were introduced by Mary Ann Bentham,
Personal Develop chairman, at the Scholarship luncheon on Friday. These
young women had been selected by the Districts at the Spring Distro meetings
to represent the District as a candidate for the Young Career Woman who will
represent New York State at the National Convention. This was a “first” for
choosing the candidate in this manner. Districts I, IV, V and VII each had a
candidate. Miss Claudette Smith from District I was the one chosen to go to
the National Convention. She is an assistant buyer at Best and Company in
New York City.

"The Club Presidents were introduced at the Friday evening dinner by
the District Directors as they marched into the banquet hall. Each Director was
presented by Cecile Kiklowicz, chairman. The big event of the evening was the
p ion of the 50th Anni 'y Pageant. Lorraine Rouget, chairman of
the 50th Anniversary Committee, directed the Pageant and Elsie Kaiser of the
TSA Club was general chairman. Members from every District participated in
this well done serious and humorous portrayal of women from 1919 through
1969.

President Mildred Freeman paid tribute to two 1919’ers, Miss Lena
Sanford and Miss Lucy Murphy, members of the Rochester Club, at the Satur-
day evening banquet. President Mildred paid special honor to the ten past
State Presidents who were at the banquet. The speaker of the evening was
Judge Sarah 'T. Hughes, a past National President from Dallas, Texas.

A specially made Steuben glass vase will be presented to. the National
Federation in honor of our 50th Anniversary.

Final registration at the Convention was 599.

One new club was organized during the year — The Tri-Town Business
and Professional Women’s Club of Amherst — sponsored by the Tonawanda
Club in District Vol.

One Club was ized — the h Club of the
Cobleskill Agriculture and Technical College.
Our membership on May 31, 1969 was 7,403, 143 clubs in the State.

1969

Pride in the Past 1919
Promise in the Future 1969

PRIDE. — PROMISE

Under this theme, Mrs. Carolyn Del.aMater, newly elected President of
the Business & Professional Womens Clubs of New York State, Inc. began
her responsibilities as our leader for our Golden Anniversary Year.

June 2nd was a red letter day — the opening of our PERMANENT STATE
OFFICE in Utica, New York — with Mrs. Joyce Pflieger as State Office Secretary.

At the hour of Neil Armstrong’s “One small step for man — one giant
leap for mankind,” the National Federation of Business & Professional Woman’s

Jubs, Inc. was placing its 50th milestone on Earth — in St. Louis, its birthplace.
The date was July 19, 1970.

Lucile M. Kinne, became our National Membership Chairman to
complete three years of service on the National Membership Committee —
Cecile Fox was again appointed National UN R i

Katherine ‘T. King served on the National Nominating Committee and
Clare T. Garrity served on the National Legislative Platform Committee and also
on the Elections Committee. Loretta F, Spacek seryed as a member of the
Resolutions Committee and Iréne Estenes was Chairman of the Floor Tellers.

Our past State President, Loretta F. Spacek was unsuccessful in her bid
for Chairman of the National Nominating Committee. We were very proud of
our Candidate, her Campaign Manager, V. Rae Forster, our Reception Chairman,
Mary Louise Morrissey, and our New York State Activities Chairman, Carolyn
Thornton, for jobs well done.

A lasting Golden Anniversary gift of a Steuben Glass Bowl was presented
to the National Federation by our president, Mrs. DeLaMater, on behalf of
the Golden Anniversary Committee and each member of our New York State
Federations

¢ Commodore in New York City was the meeting place for the Fall
1969 Board Meeting, September 26, 27 & 28. Mrs. DeLaMater presided at all
sessions. Adah Purdy was Chairman and the Members of District X with
their Director, Anita Short, seryed on her Committee.

The President reported that she had accepted the resignation of Jewel S.
Wood, Director of District XI and that Mrs. Lorraine Richards is now Director
of District XI,

Olive L. Deuel, Chairman of Status of Women Committee recommended
that a letter be written to President Nixon telling him of our pleasure in the
continuation of the Citizen’s Advisory Council and in the appointment of three
members of our Federation to this Council. Mrs. Deuel further recommended
that we write Gov. Rockefeller of our pleasure in the appointment of these-
women to the Boards, Councils and Commissions in New York State: Miss
Laura J. Pires of New York City and Mrs. Jahopin of Plattsburgh.

Mrs. Deuel further recommended that a letter of congratulations be
written to Angie Brooks on her appointment as President of the United Nations
Assembly.

In response to a letter from Jane Barton, the Committee recommended
that a letter be written to President Nixon asking that he appoint Lorie Molner
to one of the two vacancies on the Federal Communications Commission. These
recommendations were approved.

The New York State Federation endorsed Loretta F, Spacek, Past State
President, for the office of National Second Vice President.


60

969

Two Workshops were held:

«Challences of the Future — Opportunities and Responsibilities for Older
People” had as its Moderator, Mrs. Lucile Kinne, Director of Senior Activities,
Town of Amherst; Past State President and National Membership Chairman.
The Panelists were: Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Dale, Executive Director of the
Lockport Senior Citizens Center, Inc. and Mr. Jerry A. Shroder, Executive
Secretary of the Committee on Aging for the Community Council of Greater
New York.

“Accent Awareness — Crime Prevention and Control” was moderated by
Mr. Clare 5, Walker, Assistant General Council of the Overmyer Company of
New York City. The Panelists were: Mr. Ernest H. Rosenberger, Lecturer;

Mr. Norman B. Johnson, Chairman of the Brooklyn Urban League; and Mr.
Eugene Gold, District Attorney of King Vounlys

There were 145 registrants and 191 in attendance at the Saturday,
luncheon. Two BPW visitors from Cornwall, England, were present at the
Saturday session. .

V. Rae Forster, Second Vice President and State Membership Chairman,
was responsible for a Golden Anniversary Membership Jamboree held
November 7, 8 and 9 at the Holiday Inn, Horseheads, New York. Lucile M.
Kinne, National Membership Chairman was our National Representative and
honored guest. Subjects covered were: The BPW Story — Motivation —
Leadership — ications — Continuing Membership — New Members —
New Clubs — NIKE and Samothrace Clubs — the Treasurer and Her
Responsibilities — Importance of Program Planning to Club Membership.
State Officers and State Committee Chairmen were the speakers and
panelists. Mrs. Kinne seryed as consultant and was the speaker for the opening
session and Banquet. 75 Members attended. Sara Muccigrosso, Assistant
District Director was Chairman and the Clubs of District VI served as hostesses
for the weekend.

The Winter Board Meeting was held January 23, 24, & 25, 1970 at the
Thruway Hyatt House, Albany, New York with Katherine Abel and Mary E.
McKenna Co-Chairmen. Mrs. Vivian Golub, District Director, District IL
and member clubs were hostesses. Mrs. DeLaMater, State President, presided
at all business sessions. We were honored to have our National President,

Mrs, Myra Ruth Harmon attend.

Lorraine Rouget, Chairman of the Golden Anniversary Committee,
reported a balance of $524.26 in the Anniversary Fund. The committee’s recom-
mendation that the money be used to defray the expenses of a specially
designed cover for the newly revised Manual of Instructions was adopted.

Two Workshops were held:

“Food on the Table,” moderated by Clare E, Dunn, State Civic Participa-
tion Chairman. The panelists were Dr. John H. Browe, Mrs. Martha Brown and
Miss Virginia Cairns.

Mrs, Mildred B. Freeman, State Personal Development Chairman,

d d the Personal Develop Workshop and the participants were
Donna Rodden and Loretta Rich.

National President, Mrs. Myra Ruth Harmon, was Banquet speaker and
showed slides of her recent trip to Viet Nam, sponsored by the Freedoms Foun-
dation.

174 Members attended.

The 18th Annual State Legislative Conference was held at the DeWitt
Clinton Hotel, Albany, New York, February 21, 22, 23, 1970, District NII was
hostess and Margie Lee Johnson, Chairman. The theme “Transportation
Hang-UP.”

The First Workshop “So What is New York State Doing” was presented
by Helen Walker, Conference Program Chairman — The Moderator, The Hon.

1969
Albert M. Danzig, Peputy Commissioner, N.Y.S. Dept. of Motor Vehicles.
Panelists— Major Robt. Sweeney — Div. of Traffic N.Y. State Police
Robt. Dinerstein - Deputy Commissioner and Counsel
N.Y.S. Dept. Motor Vehicles

Kenneth Shiatte — Office of Planning and Development

N.Y.S. Department of Transportation.

___ The Second Workshop was introduced by Helen O’Brien. A Film — “New
Directions in Railroading” was shown. The speaker, Mr, Edmund‘, Lynch,
Principal Air Transportation Specialist, N.Y.SsDept. of Transportation had for
his topic — “Aviation Horizons in New York State.”

‘The Banquet speaker was the Hon. Vincent L. Tofany, Commissioner of
Motor Vehicles, State of N.Y. and the Luncheon speaker, i Wm. B. Brower,
Prof. A ical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Elaine Hannay, State Legislation Chairman spoke on “What can BPW
Clubs do about Transportation Hang-UP.”

The Conference closed with an audience with the Governor and Tea at
the Executive Mansion,

The Youth Leadership Conference with its new concept and approach to
leadership development was held at the Hotel Syracuse, Syracuse, NY. -
April 10-11. 33 Adults and 73 Students, both College and High School attended.
The trainer from National Leadership Institute, San Antonio, Texas, was Mrs.
Tulla Buselle. This 100% carcepatin conference was well received.

Youth Leadership Chairman, Roseann Stewart, served as Chairman of
this conference.

The theme for the 1970 State Convention - ERA OF RESPONSIBILITY
ENRICH — RENEW — ACT

; Mrs. DeLaMater, State President, called to order the 1970 State Conyen-
tion, May 28, 1970 at the New York Hilton, New York City.

_ The National Representative to the Convention was Osta Underwood,
National First, Vice President. Loretta J. Baker served as Chairman with
Margaret R. Ehalt, Director and the Clubs of District II serving as hostesses.

The President presided at all business sessions. T'wo resolutions and one
Smpreency resolution were adopted:

1) Resolved that BPW of New York State, Inc. support legislation to ban
the sale and use of DDT and all other “hard” pesticides in ‘New York State.

2) Resolyed that BPW of New York State, Inc. urge the proper authorities
to make no nominations or appointments in the Judicial branch of Government’
swithouk regard to political affiliations religion, ite, aonor any criteria other
than being qualified for the particular post.

3) Emergency Resolution:

Resolved the BPW of New York State, Inc. memorialize the Hon.
Emanuel Celler, Chairman of the Judiciary Committee of the United States
House of Representatives to schedule hearings on the proposed Equal Rights
Amendment as soon as possible in order to move this measure to claceastal
passage through both Houses during 91st Congress.

Over $900 was contributed by New York State Clubs and individuals to
the National Foundations new scholarship which permits women to continue
their education so they will be eligible for employment or will be prepared
for advancement. As of March 10, 1970, twenty-six women in the U.S, had
received financial aid under this program.

he Manual of I ions was pleted and distributed
. The Committee for Programs for the Elderly — Information and Referral
Services will in the future be part of the ibility of the Civic Participati
Committee. Three $1,000. Scholarships were awarded to:
Meredith Lynn Kattke, Mineola, N.Y
Caro] Maxine Mates, New York City
Carol Ann Weiser, New York City

61


62

1969

The Scholarship C: ded that beginning in Septemb
1970 funds donated to and specifically specified for Grace Le Gendre Scholar-
ship Fund be used for no other purpose than the awarding of fellowships
for graduate study. This recommendation was approved.

The Personal Development Chairman announced New York State’s Young
Career Woman to the National Convention in Honolulu, Hawaii is Miss Claudette
Stroble of Amsterdam, N.Y.

Tt was recommended by the Youth Leadership Chairman that the 1970-

1971 State Youth Leadership Conference be held under the direct sponsorship
of the State Federation using the same format as that followed in 1969-70
except that it be conducted on a combined District basis, the Coordinator of
each conference to be a Vice Chairman of the State Youth Leadership Con-
ference Committee.

‘The recommendation was approved.

The By-Laws were amended to:

Article VII — Section 1 — add the immediate Past President of the Board
of Directors.

Article XII — Section 2 — increase the delegate strength giving clubs with

00 members four delegates. The addition of

each 100 members thereafter entitles the Club
to one additional delegate.

Three Workshops were held:

Membership Workshop: The perenne were Osta Underwood, National

Representative and National First Vi

ice President; Clare T. Garrity, State First
Vice President; V. Rae Forster, State Second Vice President.
Status of Women Workshop: “Action Course in Practical Politics.” The
articipants were: Harry Moore, United States Chamber of Commerce and Olive
. Deuel, State Chairman.
Treasurer’s Workshop: Nell Hagamian, State Treasurer.
At the Awards Luncheon, Osta Underwood, National First Vice President,
d the Sally Butler ional Scholarship Award to Mrs. Esther
Zalberti of Argentine, a temporary resident of Ithaca, N.Y.

State President, Carolyn DeLaMater, presented Miss Guin Hall, Deputy
Commissioner of the New York State Department of Commerce, a Citation in
honor of the 25th Anniversary of the Women’s Program in the Dept. of Com-
merce. Miss Hall was the Guest Speaker for the luncheon.

The Banquet speaker was our National Representative, Mrs. Osta Under-
wood, National First Vice President.

‘The final registration at Convention was 543.

‘The following new Clubs were organized during the year:

Ramapo Valley BPW Club of District IX

Deer Park BPW Club of District X

Fort Carillon BPW Club of District XT

On the reverse side the Olean and Peekskill Clubs officially disbanded.

Two Nike Clubs were formed — Yonkers High School of Commerce and
Lewiston-Porter High School.

One Samothrace Club — Corning Community College was formed giving
the New York State Federation a total of three Nike and three Samathrace
Clubs.

The final membership count for 1969-1970 — 7485.

There were 143 clubs in the New York State Federation.

We ended our Golden Anniversary Year on a high note being applauded
by the National Federation for our success in membership. . .winning a Winged
Victory Award, This will be presented to our president, Carolyn DeLaMater at
the National Convention in Hawaii.

1970

Theme — ERA OF RESPONSIBILITY

‘This theme touched off a year in which members of the New York State
Federation looked at the era in which we live — and our responsibility in it.

President Peg Marohn gaily led us on a memorable trip to Hawaii and
ened settled us down enough to attend the National Convention held there,
in July.

‘The Fall Board Mecting was held October 2-4, 1970, at the Statler Hilton
Hotel in Buffalo, New York, with District VII as host district, and Grace Lannen
as chairman.

The State Membership Trophy for equalization of membership was
awarded to the Horseheads Club — second-time winners.

Two workshops were presented:

“Enyironmental Quality” moderated by Lucile Kinne, Civic Participation
Committee Chairman, with panelists Richard D. McCarthy, Congressman, 39th
District; Chester R, Hardt, Assemblyman, 141st A.D., and David E. Barry,
Deputy Commissioner, Environmental Health Services, Erie County.

“Membership” moderated by Mary Louise Morrissey, Second Vice Presi-
dent, New York State, with panelists Lucile Kinne, Past National Membership
Committee Chairman; Dorothy Van Schaick, Director, District FV; Clare T.
Garrity, State President-Elect; and Dorothy Fisher, State Expansion Chairman,

'wo Canadian guests were introduced, Kay Stork, a Vice President of
the Canadian Federation, and Betty Archer.

The Banquet speaker was Fades Joseph Mattina, on “Drug Abuse.”

‘A resoluti di lating the EL

was passed ani I
Martha W. Griffiths, member of Congress, Michigan, for her efforts in securing
passage of the Equal Rights Amendment in the House.

New York State was honored by national officers — Ruth Easterling,
President, spenier at the Corning Club’s 50th anniversary in October, and Osta
Underwood, President-Elect, speaker at the Syracuse Club in November.

During the year, Marcella VanTuyle, State Hospitality Chairman, enter-
tained thirteen visitors from other countries, including Barbados, England,

Haiti, Israel, Pakistan, North Ireland, and Switzerland.

The Winter Board Meeting was held at the Commodore Hotel in New York
City on January 22-24, 1971, with Marian L. Dacey as chairman.

‘The President reported that the New York State Federation, one of six
in the country, had been selected for a Leadership Conference sponsored by the
National Federation, to be held in Bingh ber 17-18,

The Finance C i i to the By-Laws
Committee, an increase in State dues from $3 to $5, to include a subscription
to NIKE, which was carried. The suggested effective date was April 30,1971.

Asa result of a dation by the President-El

on
P
ded for sub

y t, Clare Garrity, a
by-law amendment changing the structure of the Board was presented by the
y-Laws i The By-Laws Ci i ded that the com-

position of the Board remain as is — which was carried, 18-5.

Olive L. Deuel, Status of Women Chairman, reported that the National
Chamber of Commerce was getting out a flyer on the New York State BPW-
activities in connection with the Practical Politics Course, for general
distribution.

_ _ Workshops were held, one on Membership, and one for Treasurers and
Finance Committee chairmen. Moderators were Mary Louise Morrissey, Janet
Maxwell, and Kay Karl.

_ Motion to recommend to the By-Laws Committee the inclusion of the
amen of the Status of Women Committee as a member of the Board was
carried.

63


1970

A seminar “Management by Objectives” sponsored by the BPW Founda-
tion was announced. It will be held at West Point in April. .

Lenore R. Cross, BPW Foundation Director, was a guest at luncheon.

The luncheon speaker was the Rey. Dr. James Robinson, New York City,
speaking on “Crossroads Africa, Road without Turning” Quotes from Dr. .
Robinson include “You cannot lift a society any higher than you lift its women,
and “If you don’t put something into yourself, you do not get anything out of

ourself.”
z The President announced the birth of the Queensbury BPW Club on
January 1, 1971, with 32 members.

‘The Legislative Conference was held February 13-15, 1971, at the DeWitt
Clinton Hotel in Albany, with Elaine Hannay as chairman. The theme was
Women’s Rights and Responsibilities — Threat or Promise?”

The keynote address was given by the Honorable Martha W. Griffiths,
Congresswoman, Michigan. Mrs. Griffith explained the many situations of in-
equity for women which will be affected by the passage of the Equal Rights
‘Amendment, including Social Security, discrimination in Manpower Training
programs, possibility of service in the Armed Forces, welfare laws, ete.

Miss Virginia Allan, past, National President and chairman of the Presi-
dent’s Task Force on Women’s Rights and Responsibilities, spoke about the
‘Task Force. Miss Allan said that the report of the Task Force was.in effect a

pilation of discriminations that can be elimi d through legislation, and
that the Secretary of Labor has issued guidelines to carry out prohibition of
six discrimination by government contractors.

In telling of her experiences in Moscow as a representative to the United
Nations Seminar on Women’s Rights, Miss Allan said that women in many
countries are haying the same yroblems, and recommended that a United
Nations Seminar on women be'held in Washington,

he conference included a panel discussion, moderated by Margaret
Barnard, past State President, on the implications of equal rights. Panelists in-
cluded Dr. Bertha Wakin, Associate Professor of Business Education at the State
University, Dr. Alphonse Miele, President of the College of St. Rose, and two
students of the State University.

Two workshops were also held; one on the State and National Legislative
Platforms, led by Ruth I’. Sturm, Legislation Chairman, and Joan St. James,
Vice Chairman; and “What BPW Should Do Next” led by past State Presidents,
Lucile M. Kinne and Loretta F, Spacek.

‘The seminar “M4 by Objectives,” sp d by the
BPW Foundation was held at the Hotel Thayer, West Point, on April. 23-24,
However, because of the large registration, a second seminar running concur-
rently was set up. “Communication.” also sponsored by the BPW Foundation,
also was fully subscribed.

On May Ist, four districts combined to sponsor a Youth Leadership
Conference at LeMoyne College in Syracuse — its theme: ““Youth’s Responsi-
bility for Leadership in Today's World.”

The 52nd Annual Convention of the Business and Professional Women’s
Clubs of New York State, Inc., was held at the Sagamore Hotel, Bolton Landing,
New York, May 28-31, 1971. District IV was host district with Helen Carmody
Chairman. Marie Bowden, National Recording Secretary, was the National
Representative, and speaker at the Saturday night dinner. New officers were
installed by Mable R. McClanahan, Past National President.

51 delegates were registered and eligible to vote at elections; with a final
attendance report — 691.

Significant action taken by membership at the Convention (through its

delegates) included:

1970
‘The dues increase recommended at the January Board Meeting increasing
the dues by $2.00 was passed, and becomes effective as of May, 1972.
The status of Women Committee was made a Standing Committee, and
duties of the committee were approved.
Adopted the following resolutions:
1. Suggested changes in the Social Security law to provide benefits to
married couples and survivors, based on earnings of both wage earners.
. Petitioned the President of the United States to establish an Office of
Women’s Rights and Responsibilities; and to appoint Virginia R. Allan
as director of this office, reporting directly to the President.
. (Emergency Resolution) Opposed the elimination of the Women’s
‘rogram from the Department of Commerce (New York State), and
the loss of its services to the people of the State; and asked for

nD

rey

=

of its
{Emergency Resolution) Support the efforts of the New York State
urses Association for recognition of the independent and autono-
mous functions of professional nurses; and request Governor
Rockefeller to sign the Health Provisions Bill as amended by the
LaVerne-Pisani bills,
Passed a motion that “all special projects of the State that involve the
coonerstion of, or action by local clubs, be decided upon no later than the

Board Meeting.

Vital’Statistics:

Membership at April 30,1971 ......... 7432 (99.19% of 1970)
Clubs in Federation ~ beginning of year... 144

New clubs added ...........00005

1 Queensbury BPW Club
1

Clubs merged — Mount Morris and Nunda.
Club withdrawn from Federation
Clubs in Federation — April 30,1971 . .

1974

Theme — ERA OF RESPONSIBILITY — ACTION

1 Herkimer County
143

1971-72 was a year of imminent change! At the National Convention
new National By-laws were adopted with major changes in committee struc-
ture. New York State would operate this year under the old structure, at
the same time getting ready to adopt some of the changes in the following
year.

Effective at once was the addition of a Young Carcerist Committee
asa pected i BE lly thi i will comprise the NIKE-
SAMOTHRACE Committee, Young Careerist Committee, and any other youth
program which might develop, and become a standing cominittee.

The Equal Rights Amendment was the prime object for action — it must
be passed!

The first happening’ in this club year was a National Federation
leadership conference — “BPW in Action,” held in Binghamton, on September,
17-18. National First Vice President, Jean McCarrey, and Past President Sally
Cunningham led the team ing this workshop on membership and
programming.

The Fall Board Meeting has held October 2, 1971, at the Schine Inn,
Massena, New York, with District XT as host district, and Lillian Caron,
Chairman.

The State Membership ‘Trophy for

awarded to the Nunda BPW, Club.

of bership was


1971

The President discussed the changes in by-laws proposed by the
National Federation, particularly the addition of a standing committee called
the Young Carcerist Committee. She announced that the Executive Com- |
mnttee had approved the addition of this program as a cial committee in
New York State this year, with the thou! t that it would be worked into
standing committee status next year, with a change in by-laws at the State
Convention in May. ;

Motion was made to recansider the action taken at convention wherein
Legislative Conferences were put on a biennial basis, possibly rotating among
districts. After much discussion the recommendation was carried and the
subject will be referred to the ion for further ideration

‘A recommendation of the Youth Leadership Conference Committee
that the State hold a state-wide youth conference in the Syracuse area in
the spring of 1972, and that the theme for this conference be “Through
Involvement Comes Commitment,” was adopted.

The President reported that the Executive Committee had appointed a
committee to study and make recommendations regarding sites and
scheduling of future State conventions.

The Board accepted a recommendation by the Executive Committee
that a single signature be authorized on checks drawn on the checking
account of the State Federation in order to simplify payment of ordinary
bills of the Corporation; with a stipulation that at the same time, bond of
the State Treasurer be increased to $50,000.

President Garrity was empowered to write President Nixon that we
would appreciate his appointment of a qualified woman to the Supreme

‘The banquet speaker was Assemblyman K, Daniel Haley, 110th
Assembly District, with the topic “Need for Legislative Responsibility.”

The Samothrace Club of Syracuse University was chartered on
November 15, 1971, under the guidance of Marian Meyers of the Syracuse
Club. The charter was seseited” by President Clare Garrity.

The Winter Board Meeting was held at the Sheraton Airport Motel,
Rochester, N.Y.,on January 29, 1972, with District VIL host district, and
Em Suiter, Chairman. President-Elect Mary Louise Morrissey presided in the
absence of the president due to illness.

President-Klect Morrissey explained the change in the procedure at
National Convention this year, resulting from the fact that the National
Nominating Committee is no longer a standing committee, Chairman and
committee members.are to be elected by the Board of Directors at the Pre-
convention Board, Meeting with the Chairman nominated from the floor
at that meeting.

The Director of District V d the following dati
“That the Executive Committee and/or Legislation Commi
prepare a ‘position paper’ that states the official BPW position
‘on such matters as education, child care, property rights, etc.,
to clarify which Jations to the legilatare BPW can
endorse and to which it can add its strength so that women
can really become a significant political force (such a position
paper to be printed in the May issue of NIKE or presented
at the State convention, May, 1972).”

Because of the time limitations the ref to publishing in the May
NIKE was withdrawn, with the understanding that the position paper would
be presented at the convention, The members voted unanimously that the
recommendation be accepted and implemented by the Legislation Committee,
working with the Committee on the Status of Women, and with the under-
standing that the proposed Position Paper would be referred to the Executive

66 Committee for review before being presented,

1974

The Board adopt a recommendation made by the Finance Committee
that a tentative budget be presented at the winter Board Meeting which
would then be mailed with the call to convention.

The Board also accepted a recommendation of the Executive Com-
mittee that an acknowledgement card be designed and reproduced, for con-
tributions to the Grace LeGendre Scholarship Fund.

District X submitted followi hati

which was adopted:

“RESOLVED: That the Board of the New York State Federation of

Business and Professional Women’s Clubs take appropriate action to
establish a source of information or referral for women seckin,
help in (1) removing discrimination barriers, and (2) in improving
working conditions.”

The President-Elect announced that the State has contributed $100 to
the National Foundation in memory of the late Elizabeth B. Raynor,
Parliamentarian.

The Youth Leadership Conference was held at Syracuse, with a theme —
“Through Involyement Comes Committment.” Dr, Margaret M. Bergen was
Chairman. Mrs. Stacy Carter, 1971 Young Career Woman, was luncheon
speaker.

‘The 53rd Annual Convention of the Business and Professional Women’s
Clubs of New York State, Inc. was held at the New Treadway Inn, Bingham-
ton, New York, May 27-29, 1972, with President Clare Garrity presiding;
Ruth Moss Easterling, Past National President as National Representative; and
Ruth Sturn as Parliamentarian. District VI was host district with Dorothea
Meagley, Conyention Chairman. 823 were registered and eligible to yote at
election; with a final attendance of 598.

National Representative, Ruth Easterling, explained the changes in pro-
gramming at the National level and the restructuring in the by-laws. The
program for 1972-73 is “Objectives in Action.” Mrs. Easterling was also the
speaker at the Saturday night dinner.

As previously instructed by the Board, the Legislation Committee had
prepared Position Papers outlining the position of the New York State BPW
on Equal Rights, Education, Drug Abuse and Addiction and Alcoholism,
and Day Care Service. Copies were distributed and discussed. As a result of a
motion they will be fubuted in the next issue of NIKE and any action
will be taken at the Fall Board Meeting.

‘The President commented on another directive to the Executive Com-
mittee, that of submitting information regarding the rights of women who
feel they have been discriminated against, as to where they could go, what
the law was, and under what provisions they could file laints. President
Clare is Chairman of this project, and said that a paper is being prepared
which will appear in NIKE,

Charter of a new NIKE Club, the Guilderland Amis NIKE Club, was
announced. This club was organized by the Turnpike Club,with 17 charter
members.

Significant action was taken by membership at the Convention (through
its delegates).

. The Young Careerist Committee was made a standing committee, and
its duties were approved.

___ Accepted a recommendation that certificates for fifteen-year member-
ships be awarded at the Spring District Meetings by the State Representative.

Presented Deborah Bird, of Elmira, 1972 Young Career Woman.

Approved the following recommendation by the Personal Development
Committee:

“That the Business and Professional Women’s Clubs of New York
State, Inc., appoint a ittee to study the feasibility of developi

Png,

67


on the State level, a “BPW Hostel” program whereby members of
BPW would be able to stay in the home of another BPW member in
another city while seeking employment. The ability to stay with
another BPW member will allow members to seck employment and
look over an area without hotel expense. In addition to eliminating
lodging expenses, BPW hostelling will promote friendship among
members from different locations and promote more interest in,
and exposure for, the Federation.” a

Adopted the following, Emergency Resolution: (submitted by District
VIN) Called for action ré Bill H.R. 10485 regarding penalties and pretrial
detention for distribution of heroin, which had been held up in committee.

Adopted the f ing dation by the Public Relati .
Committee: “That the incoming Executive G ittee appoint a tt
of three to restructure and revise the criteria for Public Relations Awards
made by the New York State Federation; that this committee should meet
at the Fall Board Meeting; and present their recommendations at the 1973
Winter Board Meeting.”

Adopted a dation of the Youth Leadership C e Com-
mittee that this project of the State BPW be continued for the coming club
year, 1972-73. ;

Moved that New York State be represented at the International Hemis-

heric Conference, scheduled for October 26-28, 1972, in El Salvador, San
Salvador, by our President, Mary Louise Morrissey, and that money be
allocated from State funds to cover expenses incurred in due course of the trip.

Vital Statistics:

Membership at April 30, 1972... .. . 7113 (95.7% of 1971)
Clubs in Federation — April 1971... 143
New clubs added ..... BEEN 28 0

Clubs withdrawn from Federation. 2 Northland and East Nassau
Clubs in Federation — April 1972... 141

1972
‘Theme: OBJECTIVES IN ACTION

Two disasters of 1972 proved New York State Federation’s generous and
rapid response to those in need. The Ni hquake, wit! d
destruction to the capitol city of Managua, brought inestimable personal
ttagedies. An appeal for help by Managua BPW members was answered imme-
diately by each State Federation.

‘The Southern Tier of New York State was severely damaged as a result
of an unpredicted turn-about of tropical storm “Agnes” on June 23, 1972. A.
BPW Flood Relief Fund was immediately started to aid our members in Districts
Six and Seven.

The National Convention was held in Atlantic City, New J rey Jul
23-28. New York, with 141, had the second largest delegation. The New York
State Reception was a highlight of the Convention.

New York’s Miss Cecile Fox.was appointed as the Federation United
Nations Representative.

We hereby record with deep sorrow the passing of Marjorie C. Smith,
Dean of Women at Syracuse University, on August 3, 1972. Dean Smith served
as President of our State Federation from 1948 to 1950.

Our State Federation participated at the New York State Fair.

1972

Representatives of New York State attended a BPW in Action Conference,
Hartford, Connecticut, sponsored by National on September 23-24.

The Fall Board Meeting, held at Northway Inn, Syracuse, on October 6
and 7, with Dr. Jane Byrnes as Chairperson, Katherine Benedict, Vice Chair-
person, and District Five serving as hostesses, reported a registration of 215,
The Theme: “Women Helping Women.” The Board endorsed Proposition One
of the Environmental Quality Bond Act of 1972 (providing equitable sharing
of the cost of p i hancing, and improving the envi of New
York State.) Position Papers prepared by the Legislative Committee were
adopted and later printed in the NIKE Magazine.

The Theme for the National Business Women’s Week (October 15-23
was “BE INVOLVED.” This was an extension of the theme of the 1972-7
National Federation program: “OBJECTIVES IN ACTION” — To Elevate, Pro-
mote, Cooperate, and Extend — In Action.

This theme was further extended across the waters — and put INTO
ACTION — October 25-29, when after ten years of planning and two postpone-
ments, the National Federation-sponsored Congress of Business and Professional
Women of the Americas was finally convened in San Salvador, El Salvador.
Delegates from twenty American nations explored the theme, “The Growing
Role of Women in a Rapidly Changing World.” Organized into four commissions
to discuss the status of women, education, perspective of youth, and economic
and social development, two delegates from each country (one of whom was
to be under thirty years of age) brought the perspective of her nation to the
discussion of the hemisphere as a whole. Past National President, Virginia R.
Allan, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs, U.S, Department
of State, was the keynote speaker. The U.S. was represented by National
President, Jeanne C. Squire, and our National Young Careerist Chairman,

Diana J. Dorr.

State President Mary Lou Morrissey and State Parliamentarian Ruth
Sturm, who were privileged to attend as observers, brought back a very realistic
and challenging account of the Congress.

Also in Setober, a reception was held at the Americana Hotel in New
York City for Miss Nazla Dane of Canada, President of the International Federa-
tion.

In December, a rare announcement came from National Headquarters that
the site of the 1973 National Convention had been changed from San Juan,
Puerto Rico to Miami Beach, Florida. Building facilities still under construction
and transportation difficulties made the move necessary. President Morrissey
lost no time in notifying the members, and with the help of President-Elect
Ky Karl, a smooth transition was made for those who fad already reserved in
advance.

The Winter Board Meeting, held at the Hotel Americana, New York City,
January 26-27, was preceded by A Day at the United Nations, under the chair-
manship of Adele Orlando, A Luncheon in the Delegates’ Lounge, a tour of
U.N., and an address on Human Environment made the “DAY” exciting and
worthwhile,

President Mary Louise Morrissey presided at all business sessions during
the Winter Board Meeting. Theme: “Buying and Investing Wisely.” Registration:
211. Ruth K, Herrman, Chairperson, Caroline Slocum, Vice-chairperson,
District One, Hostesses. There were 245 members and guests at the Saturday
luncheon to hear Willie May Rogers, Director, Good Housekeeping Institute,
speak on payin Wisely,” and Carol Mathews, Financial Reporter, The New

ork Post, talk shout “Investing Wisely.” Workshops on Public Relations,
Finance, and Youth Programs were held.

It should be noted that YOUNG CAREERIST has been added to the list

of Standing Committees, whose chairmen are members of the State Board.


10

1972
Approximately 140 members met at the Syracuse Country House,
Syracuse, for the 20th Annual State Legislative Conference, February 9-10,
1973. Conference Co-chairpersons Jo Bordonaro and Jean Ives, with District
Five Hostesses, filled every moment with outstanding speakers, panelists,
and a wealth of current legislative printed material. ‘The Theme: “Speaking
Out” was dramatically pursued by State Senator Mary Anne Krupsak, U.S.
Congresswoman Elizabeth Holtzman, and Past-National BPW President Osta
od.
Ynderpood undtowner Motel and the College of St, Rose, Albany, hummed
with activity on April 13 and 14, as 58 high school girls, sponsored by 29
BPW Clubs, gathered for the 1973 Youth Leadership Conference Career Clinic.
Dr, Mangavet Bergen, Chairperson. President Monissey brought greetings to
to the adults accompanying them.
the oie, Ercar Convention of the B&PW Clubs of New York State, Inc.,
was held at the Statler-Hilton Hotel, Buffalo, May 25-28, 1973. National Repre-
sentative, Mrs. Mabel McClanahan, Past National President, installed the new
officers. Lucile M. Kinne, Past State Broaden was chairperson of the Conven-
i Mildred Clark served as vice-chairperson.
ton A nde at the Convention was 618. ‘The Theme was: OBJECTIVES IN
ACTION. . Women Helping Women. . Speaking Out. . Buying and Investing
Wisely. . Saving Nature. . Saving Humanity. Reports from 11 District Directors,
12 Standing Committee Chairmen, and 14 Special Committee Chairmen bore |
witness to an ding year o! plishment under the capable leadership
of President Morrissey and the Executive Con
Five $1,000 Grace LeGendre Fellowships were awarded to: Nancy
Friedman, Jacqueline Maloney, Veronica Ravnikar, Alberta Rotello, and Susan
in.
ee ane Dubiac was selected to be New York State’s Young Career Woman
to the National Convention in Miami Beach, Florida, ; ,
The recommendation of the Special Public Relations Committee to dis-
continue the Pressbook, Radio and Television Awards was adopted by the
ention delegates.
Conv Personal Development Awards will be instituted in 1974,
Tt was yoted that certifi for twenty-five years of continuous member-
ship be awarded along with fifteen-year certificates at Spring District Meetings,
ive in 1974. :
cee cee dation Promotion chairman, Loretta F. Spacek, reported that $3,005
had been buted to the BPW Foundation this year by clubs and individuals.
Report of Membership as of April 30, 1973:
39 Clubs, 6,906 — (C — 6093 and N — 813)
In 1972, the U.S. Congress passed the Equal Rights Amendment (House
of Representatives — October 12, 1971 — 354 to 23, and the Senate, on March
72 — 84 to 8). , |
By Ticatatcihe of the State Legislatures (38) must ratify ERA before it
can become the 27th Amend: to the Constit owing F
there is a two-year period in sehich the slate review and revise their laws to
i m into compliance with the amendment.
bring New York State ratified ERA in 1972 (Senate — April 19 and Assembly,
Mey Rage also passed the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972,
which extends TitleV I of the Civil Rights ct of 1964 to employees of educa-
tional institutions. BPW played a very important role in securing passage of
these actions. There is strong opposition in some states to the A which means
continued effort will be necessary to make equality a reality.

1973

Theme: CHALLENGE FOR COMMITMENT

E 8 ¥
Economic Social Political
Concern Concern Concern.

Newly installed President Kathryn G. Karl led a delegation of New York
BPW members to the Americana Hotel, Bal Harbour, Miami Beach, Florida, July
8-12, 1973, to participate in one of the most exciting National Conventions
ever held.

The first CHALLENGE FOR COMMITMENT came into focus when
delegates were told that ratification by the States of the Equal Rights Amend-
ment (passed by Congress) was not happening as rapidly as had been hoped.
Thirty states had ratified, but some of those were trying to rescind their action.
‘Thirty-eight states must ratify before it becomes a law. Well-funded, vocal anti-
ERA groups (many with women leaders) were conducting campaigns to stop
ERA ratifications. ‘

The history of the Federation of Business and Professional Women is filled
with the struggle for equal rights for all. The dedication and perseverance has
not wavered for over fifty years, and July 11, 1973, was no exception — when a
resolution was adopted i ly at National Ci ion that the Federati
establish a special Equal Rights Amendment Ratification Fund — this fund to be
raised by voluntary contributions — fund period ending when thirty-eight states
have ratified the A d — and funds ining to be used toward the
imph tation of the A

The pledge to raise $250,000 by January 1974 was widely acclaimed and
within thirty minutes after it was adopted, $10,000 had already heen collected —
all in personal contributions from members in attendance. Within hours, the
amount increased to $12,000. State Federations met the Challenge. Past State
President, Mildred B. Freeman, was appointed Chairman for New York’s ERA
Fund. Her unusual ability to encourage members to give generously and enjoy
it deserves mention here.

Within a few months, over $13,000 had been contributed by New York
BPW Clubs and { am certain, by National Convention 1974, New York's part
in ERA ratification will go over the $15,000 mark. At the close of the State
Convention in May, $14,799.38 had been received. While it will be the job of
next year’s historian to report the total effect of BPW’s efforts, I predict that
the 1/4 million dollars will be raised before National President Jean L.
McCarrey’s term ends in July. At this writing, three more states have ratified,
with only five more needed.

Other action at National Convention of interest to New York was the
reappointment of Miss Cecile Fox (New York League) as United Nations repre-
sentative for the National Federation; the appointment of Miss Mary Louise
Morrissey (New Rochelle), immediate past State President, as Legislation
Chairman of National Federation; and the appointment of Miss Catherine
McDermott (Murray Hill) to the National Foundation Committee by the
Board of Trustees to serve on the Research and Education Committee.

Dr. Margaret M. Bergen served on the National Legislation Platform
Committee.

Last year’s historian reported the devastating earthquake December 26
in Nicaragua with tremendous destruction to the Capital, Managua. A report
of each State Federation’s contribution to the Managua BPW Relief Fund
shows New York as the second largest contributor, with $1,093.05. A total of
$14,309.58 was sent to our sisters in need in Central America — with every
state and territory responding.


1973

1973-1974 was a year of singular and significant accomplishment under
the enthusiastic and capable leadersinp of President Kay Karl. Lois Bircher,

Dna Vice President and Membership Chairperson, reported that our member-
ship had equalized — plus one. The first shamrock in the entire National
Federation was camed by District VII’s Sodus Club for members PGA
Fifty-eight National shamrock awards were earned by New York. (New York
State was the first state to qualify for the new Shamrock Award.) Four new
clubs were chartered: Richmond County — sponsored by Staten Island;
Helderberg — sponsored by Latham; Northern Suburban ~ sponsored by
Buffalo, Kenmore and Amherst; Kanazawa — sponsored by the Tonawandas.

‘Total number of clubs in the state is 143. ’

Our State Federation participated at the New York State Fair in Syracuse.

Representatives of New York State attended National's BPW IN ACTION

fe Burli Vermont, Septemk 9-30.

The Fall Board Meeting convened at the Rowntowner Motor Inn, Albany,
on September 28-29, with District I{l as hostess and Concetta M. Moore,
Chairperson. President Karl presided during ell business sessions and welcomed
the 212 members attending. The theme: ECONOMIC CONCERN. Workshops
on INVESTMENTS, WILLS, TRUSTS, and ESTATE PLANNING were offered.
Luncheon speaker was Sister Colette Mahoney, President, Marymount Man-
hattan College and Member of President Nixon’s Committee on the Economic
Role of Women. Mrs. Marilyn Nason, Journalist, was the dinner speaker.

Upon recommendation of the Status of Women Committee, the follow-
ing women running for public office in the November election were endorsed:
Mildred B. Freeman as a candidate for Supervisor in the County of Ontario;
The Hon. Beatrice Burstein as a candidate for Supreme Court Judge in Nassau
County; Miss Rose LaMendolla as a jidate for Comptroller in the County
of Erie.

National Business Women’s Week — October 21-27 — emphasized
CONCERNS OF ALL WORKING WOMEN — ECONOMIC -- SOCIAL —
POLITICAL. §

November 3-4 — State President Karl attended the BPW IN ACTION
Conference in Atlantic City.

We might note here that the United Nations General Asstt approved
aresolution proclaiming 1975 as INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S Y AR.

The Gideon Putnam Hotel, Saratoga Springs, was the setting for the 21st
State Legislative Conference — November 9-10, 1973. The theme: POLITICAL
CONCH N: PROTEST OR PROGRESS.

eraldine Burr, Conference Chairperson, was assisted by District 1V. State

President Kathryn Karl welcomed the 165 registrants. National Legislation

Committee Chairperson, Mary Louise Morrissey, closed the busy two-day session

with a summary. Senators, Assemblywomen, Assemblymen, and other State
Government representatives brought to the members the current situation and
urged us to be politically concerned.

Kathryn G. Karl was asked to serve on the Advisory Committee of the
Secretarial Science Committee of S.U.N.Y., Cornell Agricultural and Technical
College, — and served on several educational panels during the year.

‘A DAY AT THE.UNITED NATIONS — January 25, 1974 preceded the
Winter Board Meeting. Hester Hensell, Chairperson, World Affairs Committee,

| Federati

1973

jeaving the United Nations Building, the members hurried to the
Americana Hotel (New York City) to attend the Winter Board Meeting January
25-26, 1974, — Annette Cirbus, Chairperson and District I, hostess. President
Karl presided. The theme: SOCIAL CONCERN,

By-Laws Chairperson, Loretta Spacek, presented a complete rewrite of
State By-Laws for approval by the Board of Directors prior to presentation to
the State Convention body for adoption. Conformity with National By-Laws
prompted the complete rewrite.

lary Louise Morrissey was endorsed as a candic fe i -
ing Secretary for 1974-75. ‘ate for National Record
for nie G. Karl was endorsed for a National Committee appointment
_ Miss Cecile Fox was endorsed as United Nations Representative for
National Federation for 1974-75.

Worshops in keeping with the theme, SOCIAL CONCERN, were held.
Senator Helen Benitez, past president, Status of Women Commission of the
United Nations, and Mrs. Jeanne Chaton, International Federation Delegate from
France, addressed the 264 members attending the luncheon.

INTERNATIONAL WEEK — third week in February.

More than 80 New Yorkers attended the Eighth (Biennial) Legislative
Conference in Washington, D.C., March 7-8, 1974. The theme: UP THE
LEGISLATION LADDER. It took over five pages in the May 1974 issue of
National Business Woman to describe the activities and overwhelming success
of the Conference. What can I say here, except that more than 1,000 (from 50
States) came to Washington (this was over three times as many as attended in
1972) to have breakfast with their Legislators, tea at the White House and
dinner with Guest Speakers, Henry E. Catto, Jr., newly-appointed Chief of
Protocol, and Fred Graham, legal correspondent for the CBS News, noted for
his coverage of Watergate. All-star panelists and speakers met the issues
head-on, but our own BPW leaders fielded questions from the press concerning
ERA like seal pin

National Legislation Chairman Mary Louise Morrissey participated in
the Conference and announced that her name would be placed in nomination
from the floor at National Convention for the office of National Recording
Secretary. Yond

‘The Youtl dership Conf Chairy Kay Kaiser, was held
the Hilton Inn-On-The-Campus, Rochester, April 5-6. Theme: YOUTH TO “
YOUTH AND COUNTRY ‘0 COUNTRY. Sixty High School sophomore,
junior and senior girls participated, including four exchange students. A mark
of its success was the request from the students that next year’s conference be

longer.

National Membership increased more than 3,000 over last year.

BPW Foundation received a large grant from Sears-Roebuck Foundation.
Regular contributions to the Foundation were over $100,000.

The 55th Annual Convention was held May 24-27, 1974 at the Granit
Hotel, Kerhonkson — Marjorie Doyle, Convention Chairperson, Adele Orlando,
Vice Chairperson; Attendance — 565, Theme: CHALLENGE FOR COMMIT-
MENT — I ‘SP: ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND POLITICAL CONCERN.

National Representative and Past National President Katherine G. Peden

e State

with the assistance of Mrs. Esther Hymer, 1 i Pp
tive, and Cecile Fox, National Federation representative, presented the 125
members and guests with an exciting and informative program, A guided tour
of the United Nations, luncheon in the Delegates’ Dining Roou; a visit to the
gift shops, a special briefing with Mrs, Helvi Sipila, Assistant Secretary General
of the United Nations Center for Social and Humanitarian Affairs, and
attendance at a session of the Commission on the Status of Women will never
+7) be forgotten by those who attended.

: k Award to President Kay.
National and State Awards, gongs, certificates, shamrocks, golden roses
were d for Membership, Civic icipation, Public Relations and
National Business Women’s Week.

_ The Status of Women Committee presented awards to: Brookhaven
National Laboratories, New York Telephone Company, Staten Island Commu-
nity College, Suffolk County Federal Savings and Loan Association.

Mrs, Linda C, Kane of District VII was selected YOUNG CAREERIST


1973

to represent New York State at National Convention. Sherrie F. Moore, District
TV and Nancy Klothe, District IX, alternates. .

Four $1,000 Grace LeGendre Fellowships were awarded to: Marianne
McCauley, Donna Ann Camiano, Georgiana York and Betty Travitsky.

Contributed from New York State to BPW Foundation: $3,397.50.

Six NIKE-Samothrace Clubs in the State. .

Budget, By-Laws, Legislative Platform, and Resolutions were considered
and voted on. . .

Newly elected Officers were installed by National Representative Katherine
Peden, who gave an inspirational and challenging message at the Banquet.
District Directors for Districts 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 were impressively installed
by State President Kay Karl. ;

_ It was noted that more women than ever before are running for public
office and that BPW member, Mary Anne Krupsak, is running for Lieutenant
Governor of New York State. By Convention action, Senator Mary Anne
Krupsak (Amsterdam BPW) was endorsed as a candidate for office of Lieu-
tenant Governor and Assemblywoman Constance E.. Cook (Ithaca BPW) was
endorsed as a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives.

1974

THEME: BLUE PRINT FOR WOMEN — A YEAR OF EXCITEMENT
SYMBOL: THE SUN-ENERGY OF ALL WORKING WOMEN

The year of the Blue Print for Women opened with enthusiasm. Audrey
Lanfare was installed as President of the Conyention of the New York State
Féderation at the Granit Hotel, Kerhonkson, New York, May 24-27, by the
National representative, Katherine Peden, a Past National President, and Na-
tional Challenger for the Equal Rights Amendment Ratification Fund.
Katherine asked to come to our convention to thank us for raising more money
than any other state, under the Chairmanship of Mildred Freeman. New York
State contributed $15,394.88, which helped the National Foundation meet
its goal of $250,000, set in Miami. During the convenjion the Executive Com-
mittee authorized the purchase of two $100 ERA Century Fund certificates,
which action was ratified at the Fall Board meeting. ;

At the ion an y lution was pass di Mary
Ann Krupsak, member of the Amsterdam Club for Lieutenant Governor of
New York State.

It was the 1973-1974 National President Jean McCarry’s year of the
Shamrock, ERA rallies, and the National Convention at Chicago, Illinois, July
21-23, Kighty-one New York members were there to support Mary Louise
Morrissey, National Legislation Committee Chairman, who was a candidate for
Recording Secretary. At the end of the Legislation Committee meeting, she
received a standing ovation.

National Conyention, rose pins for the New York State flower, were
presented to National and State dignitaries attending our reception.

During the year the President presented the “Award of the Rose” to
members who had given exceptional service to the State Federation. Pam Stage
and Mrs. Bircher, who made the badges we wore at National Convention, also
received the award, as did our Young Career Woman.

Fall Board Meeting, Holiday Inn, Elmira, September 27-28, 1974 —
District Director, Virginia Colton, Chairman, Sara Muccigrosso, Vice Chairman,
and Mary Hastings made the arrangements, There were 281 present. The
Oxford, Sidney, and Triple Cities Clubs handled the srorkahops and luncheon,

The Armot Art Museum was the setting for a viewing of a superb current

iia: iin ieee een a |

1974

exhibit. Dr. Gertrude Spremulli, Dean of Admissions, Chemistry Professor, and
Authoress, of Elmira College, portrayed woman in the year, 2074,

Joan Russo presented the Pearl Lowery Stabilization Award to Evans and

Eastern Queens Clubs. Each club will have the trophy for a half year.
¢ this meeting we endorsed the candidacy of Mary Louise Morrissey for
National Recording Secretary if she chose to run.

Kay Karl moved that the President be sent to the Hemispheric Congress
in Mexico City as an observer in February, 1975,

As we had endorsed Mary Ann Krupsak, Audrey, the President, invited
her to come to Elmira and address our members. Her proposed visit was known
to the officers and those in District VI in charge of the meeting, but it was a
delightful surprise to the Board and club members.

Once a membership chairman, always a membership chairman. To help
bring New York State up to its full potential, the President suggested the
creation of a “Club of the Year” award to be given at State Convention. Jean
Fox was asked to chair the Committee, and to set up the criteria. One club
stood out above the others, and judges from other State Federations chose
Silver Creek. The announcement was made at the Awards Luncheon of the
Convention.

The E itive C ittee also d the creation of an award to
be given to the clubs haying 100% renewal of present membership. Although
New York State had just received a lemon for being last in the Ship of Commerce
Fleet (a group of the largest states in the National Federation), and the lemon
came slinking through our Fall Board Meeting, it was never to be seen again! By
February, 1975, we had not only equalized our membership but took first
place in the Ship of Commerce Fleet and hed our first orange. March brought
our second orange and then April and May and the prize was ours! We did it!

We attracted members because of the publicity ERA was receiving,
because the United Nations had declared 1975 International Women’s Year
and the years that followed as International Women’s Decade. The National
Federation had called a Congress of Business and Professional Women of the
America’s, which was the National Fed "3 ibution to ional
Women’s Year. Also, the Bicentennial was calling attention to women’s role in
our history. And we were there!

By ¢ time of the National Convention we were the proud possessors
of four NATIONAL ORANGES and because New York State led the “Ship of
Commerce Fleet” with 100.13% membership and 6,922 members, we were
entitled to the National Sunburst State Award, which was presented at the 56th
National Convention in Las Vegas, The entire New York contingency of 134
members was given the honor position — first section seats during all business
meetin
lemispheric Congress, Mexico City — On Monday, February 17th, Audrey

left New York and flew to Mexico City,’ foreign city, both old and new, a
warm, beautiful city. The Congress of Business and Professional Women of the

mericas was called to bring together women from the American countries to
meet in an atmosphere of friendship with the guidance of experts. Twenty
countries sent delegates, and several other countries including the United
Kingdom, sent observers. Audrey met Sally Ramsdam, President of the United
Kingdom Federation the first day, and their paths met many times throughout
the conference, Twenty-one New York State members were at this Congress.
The keynote speaker was Judge Sarah T, Hughes, a past President of our National
Federation. There were three sessions covering Women in the Family, the Labor
Market, and as Leaders, The moderators were outstanding women, such as Past
President Margaret Hickey. It was most interesting to learn from the women
about conditions in other countries and also to hear of the action they were
seeking to achieve,

15

16

1974

Sally Ramsdam invited the members of the New York State group to hor
room for refreshments after one of the sessions. In return, we invited her to be
our guest at breakfast, at which time we presented her with an Aztec calendar
and a note signed by all present. ‘The delegates from Jamaica invited us to join
them, and they presented us with native necklaces. We also had the privilege
of meeting Chet Manna, Past President and Founder of the Nigerian Federa-
tion. She was a colorful and interesting woman.

‘The sessions were in the morning, In the afternoons we went on tours and
had the opportunity to meet other observers and delegates. ;

A Day at the United Nations — A Day at the U.N. preceded the Winter
Board Meeting with a successful turnout of 134 guests. The program was excit-
ing. Miss Irma Mazelis talked on the “Equality of Men and Women.” Cecile Fox,
the BPW National Observer to the U.N. and Adele Orlando, the chairman of the
State IWY p da panel discussion. An added i ing feature was a
U.S. Mission briefing on Special International Political Affairs.

Winter Board Meeting — The Americana Hotel, New York City, was the
headquarters for the Winter Board Meeting, January 31-February 1, 1975.

Dr. Marguerite Follett, Associate Director of the U.S. Center for Interna-
tional Women’s Year, and Patricia McLaughlin, of the British American
Association, were the luncheon speakers.

The topic was “Bicentennial Perspective for Women.”

Legislative Conference — ‘The Legislative Conference was held at the
‘American Inn, Albany, on February 28-March 1. Frances George, chairman,
stressed the need for all women to yote for the national ERA Amendment,
which had already passed the New York State Legislature and was to be on the
ballot in November, 1975.

The theme for the Conferenée was, “What’s Next? Focus on the Future.”

The State Legislative Platform consisted of a 4-point program on child
care, credit for women, human rights, and reproduction and its control,

Helen M. Olsen, Resolutions Chairman, proposed the need for women to
acquire Master’s degrees in Business Administration, This resolution became
especially significant because of the Sears-Roebuck Foundation Loan lund,
which was established at the 1974 National Convention. She also proposed a
second resolution — the need to assure the admission of women into the United
States naval, air force, and military academies.

The workshops were on “Discrimjnation in Auto, Life and Health
Insurance.” The chairman was Mary Ann Guerney. Kay Philips, Administrative
Assistant to Senator Javits, was the moderator. "The panelists were Arthur
Foley, member of the Insurance Committee for Senator Dunn, and Janet
Sharron, Task Force on Critical Problems. She is the author of “Insurance and
Women.”

The second workshop centered around the theme of “Women in Policy-
making Posts.” Lois Bircher was moderator and panelists were: Eunice
Whittesley, Vice Chairman of the Republican State Committee, Jane Small
Sanford, Chairman, Women’s Political Caucus, and Carol Bellamy, State
Senator from the 23rd District, Kings County.

The luncheon address at the Conference was made by Abi Atkinson, who
is Chairman of the National Legislative Committee. Her topic was “Social
Security and How It Affects You.”

Youth Leadership Conference — The Youth Leadership Conference had
everything:

International Women’s Year — Canadian members and teens

1974 NYS Young Career Woman, Linda Kane Connor, coordinator
‘Teens — sponsored by clubs

Queens — unobtrusive member chaperones

Program —- for today and tomorrow

a a wae

1974
Past President Katherine King —

e Chairperson
Education -- lessons in Canadian geography and history by our
participants from across the border.
Weather — we didn’t have. Snow closed the Buffalo airport and all
New York State had a bad snow and sleet storm with
; high winds.
dation — Muriel Mead d that, in October, Career Adyance-
ment Scholarships were awarded to 120 women from 34 states and the District
of Columbia. Thirteen of the recipients were from New York State. The state
contributed $3,729 to the National Foundation this year.

State Convention at Lake Placid — Second Vice President Piilani C. Desha
was the National representative at the 1975, 56th Annual Convention at Lake
Placid, She attended every business and social function and installed the State
Officers at a special Soromony with Hawaiian flowers and beads.

BPW member Award was given to Margaret Barnard for her guidance
and endless work for the objectives of our organization.
_, Marian Dacey and her committee presented the State with a new model
guide of mandatory by-laws.

Ruth Damsky presented the awards of the National Business Women’s
Week to Buffalo and to District I for a joint entry.

Muriel Mead gave the Foundations awards to 24 clubs who sent 100%
membership contributions in the 1974-1975 term.

hat a year! Five new thriving clubs were established in New York State.
The Metropolitan Luncheon Club of Greater Utica, South-Western Chautauqua
County of Sherman, Snowbelt of Springville, Linderwald of Kinderhook, and
Min-E-Mont of East Syracuse. ;

Three hundred prospective candidates responded to the call of the Grace
LeGendre Fellowship Committee Chairman, Dr. Margaret Bergen. Due to the
generous contributions of New York State Clubs, the State Federation was
able to award five fellowships in 1975. The Syracuse Club gave a $1,000 gift,
which was donated by a former Grace LeGendre winner.

The Young Careerists proved to be a group of talented young women
from all over the state. They wrote and produced a clever professional skit.
Doreen Simmons was chosen to represent the State of New York at the
National Conyention.

Audrey, our president, felt the greatness of the human race is best ex-
pressed by Women Who Share the Shape of Their Skin, and until we women
are willing to spread our philosophy we will not succeed in our goals. We
verbalize and prepare exquisite programs, but first we must act. Women haye
always been powerful, idealistic, and challenged to turn their strength into
action, We can react and set an example for the younger women who are
searching for direction. Two hundred Years Too Long is our theme song,

1975

Theme — BICENTENNIAL: PERSPECTIVE FOR WOMEN

The Bicentennial, the Equal Rights Améndment and International
Women’s Year all vied for priority in the eventful 1975-1976 year for BPW in
New York State.

Pilgrimage to Seneca Falls ~ To our Nation’s Bi
and International Women’s Year, President Helen Carmody on September 12-14,
1975 led the BPW Clubs of New York State on a pilgrimage to Seneca Falls,
the site of the first Women’s Rights Conference in the United States in 1848.
The theme was “A Time to Remember, A Time to Forge Ahead.” One hundred

1


18

1975

irty BPW members joined with the hostess District V and Helen Tubbert,
“ie Cancel Chairman, to salute the Bicentennial Year at Eisenhower College.
One of the highlights was the tour of the Women’s Rights Museum and the

resentation of the statue of Nike, the membership award the BPW Clubs of

lew York State received at National Convention, to the Women’s Hall of Fame
in honor of Lena Madeson Phillips. The words of the “Declaration of Senti-
ments” written originally in 1848 during the first Women’s Rights Conference
at Seneca Falls, re-echoed at the same site as Past State Presidents Ruth Sturm

Garrity read the proclamation.

and one to the Pilgrima; President Helen Carmody and President-Elect
Lois Bircher attended the Risse Day of Issue Ceremony at Seneca Falls, com-
memorating the new International Women’s Year Stamp.

Equal Rights Amendment — November 4, 1975 was the target date for
concentrating BPW activities concerning ERA in New York State. That was the
date on which the voters of the State decided the fate of the Equal Rights
Amendment to the New York State Constitution. President Helen Carmody
called on all members to make special efforts required to educate the citizens
in their towns and cities on the advantages of ERA to all men and women and
to cooperate with other: local ¢ izations in e
i wunities throughout the State.
™ oon the all-out offorts were centralized in the establishment of the Speak Out
for ERA Committee under the chairmanship of Olive Deuel. .

Past State President Ruth Sturm prepared the material for a flyer titled
“Vote for the New York State Equal Rights Amendment.” Over 120,000
copies of this excellent exposition of “why ERA” were printed and every
member received a supply for distribution through personal and public contacts.

In addition, the Seal Out For ERA Committee initiated a Speakers
Bureau of BPW members who were artiodlae spokeswomen for ERA and were

ily available to speak throughout the State. 7
read Past State President Loretta Spacek, represented BPW on the Coalition for
the Passage of the Equal Rights Amendment to the New York State Constitu-
tion and became actively involved with over 70 women’s organizations which
nstituted the Coalition. —
“ o espite the concerted effort, ERA to the New York State Constitution
was defeated at the polls on Novenber 4. President Helen Carmody commented:
“We lost the fight for ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment to our State
Constitution, but we definitely haven’t given up the fight for equal rights for
women, and we will, of course, continue to emphasize the principle of ‘women
ping women.” ”
i lational Convention — Las Vegas, Nevada — July 20-24, 1 975 — The BPW
Clubs of New York State were proud to have Mary Louise Morrissey as our
candidate for the office of National Recording Secretary. One hundred and
thirty-two members attended and campaigned for Mary Lou in addition to at-
tending a reception in her honor, President Helen Carmody summed up the
outcome: “Our candidate for National Recording Secretary, Mary Lou |
Morrissey, was by far the ing of the two candidates for this office.
Her presentation to the delegate body was superb — heautifully prepared and
presented. . ;

She had the complete support of the Northeast, and the final vote was ,
very close — Marion Jordan of Oklahoma — 885 votes, and Mary Lou ~ 693
votes, with a total delegate strength of 1,776. We can only say the results could
have heen entirely different had all delegates voted. .

New York State's achievement of the highest percentage of membership
in the “Ship of Commerce Fleet” for 1974-1975 was rewarded with upfront
seating of our delegation to National Convention. Our 1974-1975 President

P prog

4

Audrey Lanfare and Membership Chairman Joan Russo were presented with a
marble statue of Nike. In addition, the Westfield Club won a Golden Key Award
for having achieved a 210% increase in membership during 1974-1975,

Fall Board Meeting — October 10-11, 1975 — Treadway Inn, Niagara
Falls ~ “Bicentennial: Pride and Progress for Women” was the theme for the
meeting under the Chairmanship of Lillian English and hostess District VIII. In
keeping with the concentrated effort on the passage of ERA to the State
Constitution, Olive Deuel moderated a panel on “Speak Out for ERA.”

A workshop on the topic of “Women in Communications: Print and Broad-
cast Techniques” was headed by Ann Costello, Public Relations Chairman. A
program was presented by Adele Orlando, International Women’s Year Chair-
man, on the role the United Nations plays in today’s world affairs. “International
Women’s Year — A Pathway to the Future” was the subject of the guest speaker
at the banquet, Hilda Cryderman, Chairman, Committee on Human Rights, of
the Canadian BPW Federation.

Upon the recommendation of the Status of Women Committee, Chairman
Kae Dutcher, the Board of Directors endorsed Adele Foster of the Silver Creek
Club for the office of County Legislator in Chautauqua County; Doris McNamara
of the Amsterdam Club for the Office of County Treasurer of Montgomery
County; and Katherine Benedict of the Camillus Club for the Office of First
Ward Councilman in the Town of Camillus.

pecial Committee was established, composed of not less than five
members, for the purpose of coordinating all New York State activities at the
Annual National Conventions.

A Resolution was approved to present to the National Federation
requesting it to change the Standing Rules of Order for National Conventions
to permit seating of alternates directly behind each state federation’s delegates
for better communications between delegates and alternates,

Winter Board Meeting — January 30-31, 1976 — Ramada Inn, Schenectady —
Workshops on “The Value of A Dollar to A Woman Today,” under the direc-
tion of Norma Thomas, Manager of Consumer Affairs, First Trust and Deposit
Company; and “The Metric System,” led by Dr. Fred Tucher, Director, Weights
and Measure, State of New York, were organized under the overall theme
“Freedom to Grow.” District IV and Chairman Dorothy VanSchaick shared the
hostessing duties and arranged for Carol Fairly, member of the Women’s Pro-
gram for Adirondack Community College, to he the guest speaker on the subject
of “Recycling Yourself.”

h ional Women’s Year C — United Nations Weekend —
February 13-14, 1976 — Under the leadership of Chairman Adele Orlando, the
Committee planned the weekend in New York City which commenced on Friday
with a guided tour of the UN, followed by a presentation of UN programs, in-
cluding “Decade for Women,” lunch in the Delegates’ Dining Room, and
concluded with a Feeptiony given by the New York League BPW Club.

Saturday workshops were held at the Roosevelt Hotel with BPW’s National
Observer to the UN, Cecile Fox, as moderator of the first panel which covered
the many facets of International Women’s Year. The second panel, moderated
by Florence Falk-Dickler, Assistant Regional Director of the Women's Bureau,

-S. Department of Labor, discussed “Where Do We Go From Here.” A sum-
mary by Irma Finn, National BPW Program Director closed the workshops. The
luncheon, hosted by The Supervisors and Administrators BPW Club, was high-
lighted by the keynote speaker, Marlene Sanders, Vice President of ABC-T

ews and Documentaries, who spoke on “Women.on the Move — Up.”

1976 Bic ial National Legislati uf — March 3-5, 1976 —
Washington, D.C. — New York State had one of the largest delegations to the
conference — 89, Many of the New York State Congressmen attended the Con-
gressional Breakfast, including Bella Abzug, Sam Stratton, Barber Conable.

79


80

1975
Senator Jacob Javits was fogged-in in New York but sent a member of his staff.
The Day on The Hill was actively covered by the New York State delegation,
some of whom had a session with Senator Buckley, Senator Javits and other
members of Congress in their offices, and many were able to sit in on hearings
on various topics, A highlight of the Conference was the visit of President
Gerald R. Ford to the reception and his remarks to the members of BPW,

Youth Leadership Conference — March 19-21, 1976 — Holiday Inn,
Spring Valley ~- Overall arrangements were made by Chairman June L, Aulik
and the nine career workshops and discussion sessions were prepared under the
leadership of Doreen Simmons, New York State’s 1975 Young Careerist. State
Senator Linda Winikow addressed the Conference stressing the importance of
becoming involved and adyising our representatives in Albany of our views.

57th Annual State Convention — May 20-23, 1976 — Stevensville Country
Club, Swan Lake — District One hosted the Convention with Clare Dunn as
Chairman. The National Representative was Julie K. Arri, Third Vice President
of the National Federation, who responded wholeheartedly to the activities and
helped to make it a fun convention.

Bicentennial Awards were presented to 34 clubs by Chairman Josephine
Bordonaro and Foundation Awards were received by 30 clubs from Chairman
Dorothy Rosekrans. The National Business Women’s Week Award was pre-
sented by Chairman Virginia Colton to the clubs of the Syracuse area for a joint
award. Public Relations Chairman Ann Costello announced the following
awards: Roster, Triple Cities; Community Project, Poughkeepsie; Club Bulletin,
New York League; News Story, Rockland County; Feature Story, Elmira,

Program Committee — if oan Russo, First Vice President and Program
Chairman — From the Pilgrimage to Seneca Falls to the State Convention, Joan

Russo provided the overall Joadershtp and 6 idance for the outstanding programs
presented at State events during 1975-1976. In addition, the many facets o
the National Program, “Bicentennial: Perspective for Women,” were imple-
mented th i the State via ications with the clubs,

” Membership Committee — Maric E. Creel, Second Vice President and
Membership Chairman — “Ring Out For Membership” was Marie Creel’s call to
the 1975 Membership Jamboree November 7-8 at the Trenholm Inn East in
Victor. The invitation was extended by Ruth C, Linzy, Director of District VII.
The goal of the Jamboree was to sharpen techniques and help implement the
goals and objectives of the New York State Federation as well as to learn about
new and different approaches to securing new members and retaining their
memberships. One hundred and forty BPW members participated along with
the guest speaker, Barbara Dean, a past National Membership Chairman,

New York State equalized plus 25 members as of April 30, 1976, with a
total membership of 7,241, Nine clubs received National Membership Awards
for 25% or more increase in membership; 25 clubs received National Equaliza-
tion Certificates. State Membership Awards were received by Snowbelt,
Washington Square and Buffalo.

Status of Women Committee — Kae Dutcher, Chairman — In addition to
the end quested and approved at the Fall Board Meeting, the Com-
mittee also received approval for endorsement of Ann T. Mikoll, Past President
of the Buffalo Club, for appointment to the Appellate Division of the Fourth
Judicial Department of the State Supreme Court and asked clubs to write
letters of suy Bort for her appointment to Governor Carey.

Rita t lackay, a Charter member of the Watertown Club and first woman
to be named Chief Executive Officer of a Marine Midland Bank, was nominated
for the Ladies Home Journal Outstanding American Women of the Year in the
Field of Business and E ics and the Commi quested BPW support.

1975

Legislation Committee — Rosalind G. Drexelius, Chairman — The Chair-
man reported that thanks in part to letters and wires {rom BPW members
Congress passed H.R. 9924 calling for a series of state conferences to culminate
in a National Women’s Conference in 1977. On October 18, 1975, the Equal
Credit Opportunity Act tock effect. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of
sex or marital status relating to any aspect of credit transaction.

Foundation Committee — Dr. Dorothy Rosekrans, Chairman — Club and:
individual contributions totalled $3,704 and 30 clubs received certificates for
attaining $1.00 per member contributions.

Young Careerist Committee — Dr. Margaret Bergen, Chairman -- Each of
the eleven Districts presented a candidate. The 1976 Yotag Career Woman was
Deborah Botch, District IV, and the First Alternate was Karen Anne Smith,
District V.

Grace LeGendre Fellowship Committee — Mary Hastings, Chairman —
Clubs and members responded to the call for funds and the Committee was
again able to award five Fellowships in the amount of $1,000 each. The
recipients were Priscilla Angelo, Ingrid Barkow, Rondi Ericksen, Kathryn Grant
and lene Greenberg.

New Clubs Committee — Norma Thomas, Chairman — The Metropolitan
R i BPW Club, sp d by the Rochester Club of District VII, received
its Charter from President Helen Carmody on February 22, 1976. The club was
launched under the leadership of Patricia Pilaroscia as President and a total of
33 Charter Members, bringing the total number of clubs to 144.

1976

Bedding the 76 Bicentennial to 77, the first year of the Third Century,
Mrs. Lois Bircher of the Webster Club, took office with the announced state
theme for the year, “Getting To Know You.”

The tall ships of “Operation Sail” were viewed on July 4th, 1976 from
Staten Island with District II as hostess district.

The New York Delegation appeared at the Denver National Convention
wearing “Liberty Collars” for the first time. The new insignia, designed by the
President, features a modernistic Statue of Liberty with ERA in mind, rising
from a profusion of New York State red roses. A New York State Sherry Party
was given for members of the National Board. Clubs voted to honor Eleanor
Roosevelt in the Historical Pageant at National Convention, with the President
carrying the New York State Flag and Ist VP Marie Creel carrying an Eleanor
Roosevelt photo exhibit.

_ Each district supplied a block for a New York Statehood Anniversary
Quilt, in honor of 54-56 State President Margaret Barnard, with proceeds going
to a Grace LeGendre Fellowship.

Working for passage of ERA came into focus when New York was
hostess for the North East Political Action Conference held in Albany. At the
request of the Canadian Federation, the President was a panelist at a Human
Rights — ERA Open Forum held in the city of Montreal.

The International President, Beryl Nashar from Australia, the National
President, Jane Culbreth from Alabama, and the State President met with
members of District I at the Gotham Club in February.

During the year Guidelines for publishing NIKE were adopted.

_ __ Osta Underwood was the National Representative at the annual conyen-
tion held at Grossinger’s with a record banquet attendance of 819. At the
convention Carol Bellamy was endorsed for the Office of President of the N.Y.C.
Council. Revised Guidelines for Grace LeGendre Fellowships were adopted and

81


1976

5 Fellowships were awarded, one being in honor of Past President Loretta Spacek
who died during the year. Mary Ellen Walsh, an attorney from District VII was
chosen State Young Careerist.

Grand Island, Pine City and Enchanted Mountains of Olean were three
new clubs welcomed during the year. With the year boing one accentin,
history, a list of clubs with their charter year was compiled. With the aid of
the Seraneco Club, club presidents entered the Parade of Presidents in founding
order, with a page carrying a newly designed unique banner made by each
respective club,

‘1st VP Marie Creel was installed as 77-78 President, as illness had forced
President-Elect Joan Russo to resign.

Asa lasting momento of the “Women in America — Women in the World —
‘The THIRD CENTURY” year, the President presented the Federation with The
THIRD CENTURY Traveling Lectern, to be awarded each year to the club
equalizing with greatest plus hetween May Ist and the annual convention. North
Syracuse accepted the award for the 77-78 year.

1977

‘The theme for the year was Change: Challenge and Response. . .
Commitment. Members of the New York State Pelleration of Business and
Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. were represented at the Women’s Meetin;
in Albany in July as well as the National Federation Convention in Kentucky
(July 24-28). Jean Root chaired Women’s Day at the New York State Fair
on September 7th, The Youth Leadership Conf was held Septemb
23-24 under the direction of Jean Ives. The YLC recommended that either
the format or the name be changed as today’s emphasis is on careers and
preparing for the work world.

The Fall Board Meeting (October 7-9) was held in Plattsburg. Kay
Stanford was chairman, District II the Hostesses. The Board decided to name
one of the Grace LeGendre scholarships the Margaret Barnard Fellowship in
honor of Margaret Barnard who was State President during 1954-56. Plans for
the National Legislation Conf were 1. Rosalyn Carter has been
asked to speak to the group and legislators will be invited to attend. It was
also decided to publish Nike in newspaper format for two issues as an experi-
ment to cut the cost of publication.

Governor Hugh Carey signed the proclaimation for National Business
Women’s Week, October 1e22, The achievements of women and the objectives
of the Federation and its program were publicized.

On November 12th, a workshop was held in Batavia. Areas covered in-
cluded career awareness, Young Careerists, legislati bership, Foundati
and the Individual Development Plan. This same format was followed in
February when a workshop was held in Newburg.

November 17-20, President Marie Creel was an official observer at the
BPW — ERA Meeting and the fi ional Women’s Year Conf in
Houston, Texas. Speaking of her personal experience, Marie said, “I came
back with the same feeling I think was shared by most women who attended.

I was amazed at the diversity of points of view presented, and I was astounded

at the amount of cooperation that came out of the meeting. I think almost

everyone who attended shared in the experience of women caring about the

causes of other women. BPW has always urged equal legal rights for women

and in Houston we worked with the American Association of University Women,
82. the National Education Association, the League of Women Voters, Political

1977
Caucus and the National Organization of Women developing a program that
would urge the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment.”

The Winter Board was held in Syracuse on January 27-28, 1978. Helen
‘Tubbert was chairman with District Vas hostess district.

Workshops in management — topic: Group Dynamics and Communica-
tions, and Individual Participation were of special interest.

The National Legislative Conference (March 1-3, 1978) focused on the
lobbying process. Information was provided to the members on how to influence
the political world. This was a great follow-up of Marie Creel’s trip to Houston,
Texas in November to be part of the International Women’s Year Conference.
It provided an ideal setting for pushing the E.R.A. ratification in the last re-
maining states before the deadline.

¢ 59th annual convention was held at the Holiday Inn in Rochester on
May 19-21, 1978. Gladys Wiedrick was the chairman with District VII as
hostess. National Representative, Geraldine R. Edison (President Elect) was
present at all of the meetings.

Young Careerist chosen to represent N.Y.S. Federation of B.P.W. Clubs,
Inc, was Cathy L. Lieber from District I. Mary Haswell from T.S.A. won the
chance to represent the Federation at the National Convention for the Indivi-
dual Development Plan. Grace LeGendre recipients were:

Diane A. Berger
Ellen M. Gallagher
jeune L. Leventhal
atherine A. Mitchell (Margaret Barnard Fellowshi
Ilsie A, Zimmerman ese »
The convention body voted to name one of the scholarships for 1978-79

for Helen Curtis Smith.

_ Of special note is the election campaign for Clare T. Garity former N.Y.S.
president for National Recording Secretary. We all wish her lots of luck in the
election at the National Conyention!

Membership, April 30, 1978: 6916. A plus 5 from last year.

New Clubs: Catskill Mountain B.P.W. of Liberty, N.Y.

Disbanded Clubs: Jurnpike (District Il)
Schroon Valley (District IV)
Min-i-mont (District V)
Nunda (District VI
Wolcott (District V! i)
Westfield (District VII)

1978

“Threshold to New Horizons”

Doors of opportunity have opened and yet we are standing on the thres-
hold to new horizons with unlimited opportunities available for the future.

As we come to the final day of our 1978-79 BPW year, it is time to look
back over all the many wonderful things that have happened during President
Helen Olsen’s year.

New York State had their Past State President Clare Garrity, elected to
the office of National Corresponding Secretary. ERA has been given a boost by
the extension of time for ratification.

¢ have four brand new clubs so far this year. Congratulations to all the

new members and their sponsors. The State Federation has equalized plus.


|

Everyone is becoming excited with pl

1979

ans for our Sixtieth Birthday.

Tn a few short weeks, we will be convening at Swan Lake for our State
Convention. Election of Officers, Installations, Anniversary Parties are in full
swing in our Clubs, Districts and the State Federation. ;

Then comes the National Convention in Boston, We are fortunate to have
it in our backyard. I’m sure even more exciting events will be taking place
between the time this report is being written and our BPW year ends.

Adirondack — 1942
‘Albany — 1934
Albion — 1934-58*
Amherst — 1963
Amsterdam — 1939
Bath — 1933
Bay Ridge — 1953
Bay Shore — 1955
Beacon — 1954
Brooklyn — 1920
Buffalo — 1934
Camden — 1963
Camillus — 1958
Canandaigua — 1952
Catskill — 1978
Champlain Valley — 1949
Chatham -- 1967
Cobleskill — 1948
Colonie — 1952
Corning — 1920
Cortland — 1935
Deer Park — 1969
Delhi — 1948
Dunkirk-Fredonia — 1942

9

New York State
Clubs &
Charter Year

Eastchester — 1965
Eastern Queens — 1967
Eastwood — 1947
Elmira — 1935
Elmira Heights — 1952
Evans — 1961
Fair Haven — 1953
Flatbush — 1959
Fort Carillon — 1969
Franklin of Malone — 1952
Fulton Chain of Lakes — 1966
Geddes — 1954
Geneva — 1929
Glenn Falls — 1941
Glove City — 1956
Gotham — 1947
Gowanda — 1957
Greater Endicott — 1945
Greater Flushing — 1962
Greene — 1949
Grand Island — 1977
Hamburg — 1946
Hancock — 1960
Helderberg — 1973

Hornell — 1934

Hudson Falls — 1957
Hudson Valley — 1968
Huntington — 1953
Ithaca — 1941
Jamestown — 1932
Johnstown — 1935
Kenmore — 1956
Lake George — 1952
Latham -- 1949
Lewiston — 1952
Lindenwald — 1975
Mamroneck — 1965
Massena — 1957
Medina — 1954

Metropolitan of Greater Utica — 1974

Metropolitan of Rochester — 1976
Metropolitan of Syracuse — 1965
Mettowee Valley — 1948
Middleburgh -- 1944,
Min-E-Mont — 1975-78*
Mohawk Valley — 1955
Mount Vernon — 1927
Murray Hill — 1964

Nassau County ~ 1940
Newark — 1939

New Rochelle — 1931

New York League — 1920
Niagara Falls ~ 1920
Northeast Suburban ~- 1973
North Shore — 1965

North Syracuse — 1958
Northern Dutchess — 1961
Norwich — 1934
Ogdensburg — 1955

Onieda — 1958

Ossining — 1965

Oswego — 1933

Oswego — 1948

Oxford — 1947

Patchogue — 1958
Peninsula ~ 1978

Penn Yan — 1948

Phelps — 1954

Pine City — 1977
Potsdam — 1965
Poughkeepsie — 1935
Ramapo Valley — 1969
Rensscaler — 1952
Richmond County — 1973
Rochester — 1919
Rockland — 1948

ome — 1947
Roosevelt Island ~ 1979
Rye — 1936
Saratoga Springs — 1926
Schenestedy 1997
Seneca Falls — 1951.
Seraneco — 1972
Sidney — 1943
Silver Creek — 1955
Snow Belt — 1975
Sodus — 1948
South Bay — 1959
South Shore ~ 1959
Southwestern Chautauqua — 1975
Staten Island — 1936
Syracuse — 1930
Tappen Zee — 1956
Tarrytowns ~ 1937
‘The Supervisors &
Administrators Association — 1934
Tonawandas ~ 1939
Town & Country — 1947
Triple Cities — 1938
Troy ~ 1934
Tupper Lake — 1958
Ulster County — 1965
Upper Westchester — 1958
Utica — 1927
Wall Street — 1953
Walton — 1958
Washington Square — 1947
Watertown — 196
Watkins Glen — 1940
Waverly — 1951
Webster — 1963
White Plains — 1954
Yonkers — 1931

*disbanded & rechartered

85


New

York

State
Presidents

DR. LENA MADESIN, PHILLIPS

igor ~sthr
Found

of
infornational Federations

MRS. MARION T. BROCKWAY
MISS ADELINE ZACHERT 1824, fae
Founder Rechestor Cl Auodated
Mbiarten teaser, Serhenter Set Metropolitan Life Insurance Co.
Now York ety

‘MRS. HELEN CURTIS SMITH ‘MISS GRACE MILLIGAN
1929-1931 1931-1933
Rochoster
Musician—Civie Leader
Elgon Yecationa| one Technical
High School—Mount Ver

MISS GRACE, LoGENDRE

foga in a i a
Secretary. of ‘Skidm itor—OMce Manager—Real Es
Professor of Law at Skidmore “ mee Ns a Real Fitete

MISS JESSIE LEE HALL ISS ELLA LAWRENCE
W926 er Now York City
Superintendent of

Brooklyn
Business Executive—Civic Leader Now York Community Hospital

MISS VERA, McCREA, (SEARLES)

‘MRS. MIRIAM ALBEE SCHINDLER
1938-1940

New York
Divetor Vome Department ro
irymen's League

New York State
Joint Legislative Committee on Banking

87


DR, MARGUERITE FISHER MRS. PEARI
foi ra awe

:OR\ MISS FRANCES MARLATT
oust Vernon Author Lecturer Educator free. Lenco. Writer
Hizenship

'yracuse University

weao
Educator—Lingulst—Author

MISS MARGARET BARNARD
: MRS, SARA SPARKS MISS CAROLINE SLOCUM 1954-1956 MRS, KATHERINE T. KING
\ 1944-1946 esthae any 41960-1962
New York City New York Cit Director of Public Assistance
F ecutive Secretory and Office Manager N. Y. State Department of Social Welfare Teacher — ness
: Western Union Telegraph Company Electrical Testing Laboratories Education Sept. € lrondequoll Central School

his

‘MRS. MABEL PURDY
1956-1958

MISS RUTH STURM
MISS MARJORIE C. SMITH MRS. DOROTHY TITCHENER New Rochelle 1962-1964
1948-1950 1950-1952 Execullve Secretary Tonylown

Fisst District Dental Soclety Attomey — Author

inghamton
Dean of Women Radio-TV Commentator
88 syracuse University


MRS. LUCILE M. KINNE
1964-1966

Lockport
isorod Ruse —
Specializing in Gerontology

MISS LORRAINE M. ROUGET
1967-1968

‘Mount Vernon
Teacher — Mount Vernon High Schoo!

MRS, CAROLYN E. DE LAMATER
4969-1970

Tumpke.
Trattic Costs Supervisor
New York Telephone

MISS LORETTA F. SPACEK

1s & Aermineratos Association
Madimnote & Busingss Ma
Telephone,

MRS, MILDRED B. FREEMAN
1968-1969

Teacher

MRS. MARGARET MAROHN
4970-1971

Cost accountant — Fashion

ord

neva
— Director
Freeman Business Schoo!

inator —

of

gement

MISS CLARE T. GARRITY
4197-1972

Cosmopolitan — Manhattan
‘Attomey-atLaw

Ww

MISS KATHRYN G. KARL
1973-1974

ny,
Assistant Vice President
State Bank of Albany

MISS HELEN L, CARMODY

ployment nferiewer
Now Vents Employment Service

MISS MARY LOUISE MORRISEY
1972-1973

Administrative Secretary
fs Union

(MISS AUDREY F. LANFARE
1974-1975

am
Supervising Secretary
Partner, Syska & Hennessy, Ine.

MRS. LOIS BIRCHER
\gr6-1977

Design —
pane) Kinser & Behe Buleors

ED)


92

MRS, MARIE, CREEL MISS HELEN M, OLSEN

"nb North shore
nt Coster Credit Banker — Accountant
Notional Sersmerciol Bonk & Trust BP Atbany

MRS, JEAN H. NORRIS—-1920-1922—New York City—Atlorney—Judge
MRS. MARION BOOTH KELLEY—1922-1924—New York City—Political Leader

MRS, LILLIAN BACKUS (ALLEN) —1927-1928—Rochester—Banker, Greater N. Y. Savings Bank

We regret that the pictures of the above Presidents are not available

(Professions listed correspond with dates they served as State Presidents)

\

\

New
York
State Songs

There’s a State in the Nation

Of our Lord’s creation,

She’s the finest of all forty-eight;

At the lands-end she stands

And with strong out-stretched hands,
To the millions who knock at her gate.
The tall light in her harbor,

A bright, flaming torch

And it’s there for the whole world to see;
From North-East-South and West
Come the weary to rest,

She’s a symbol of true liberty.

CHORUS

From the broad and fertile valleys

To her lakes of sapphire blue,

To her purple snow-capped mountains
And her tall-spired cities, too

Her stalwart sons and daughters,

Oh, so proudly call her great;

She's the melting pot of nations

She’s New York, the old Empire State.

There’s a Club in our State

And we're glad to relate,

It’s the finest and best in the land,
We are women of vision

Of strength and decision,

And ready to take the command;
The bright torch in our emblem,
The Ship, Scroll and Nike,

Are there for the whole world to see;
From North-East-South and West
B.P.W’s best.

It’s a symbol of womanhood, free.

Tune: “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling”
Dorothy L. Titchener, Triple Cities '47

93


It’s old New York the Empire State
The first one that you’ll see

When you cross the ocean toward
The land of the brave and the free.
It’s the gateway of our Nation

And to you New York we bow,

‘The Great Lakes form a silver crown
Upon your brow.

Miss Liberty with outstretched arm
Bids welcome to our shore,

And at her back a mighty stream
Foretells of joys galore.

Steep Palisades her left bank rim,
Broad boulevards her right;

Oh Hudson, we do love you so—
New York State’s great delight.

It’s rich in lore and history too,
Embossed with mountains grand,
And from her heart the Finger Lakes
Reach forth a welcoming hand.

It’s a land of health and beauty too,
With cities famed and great,

You'll always find a welcome in
New York, the Empire State.

Tune: “In Old New York”
Presented by Corning Club °33

We, the daughters, proudly greet thee
Empire State, our own loved land,
Business Women of New York State
For our aims we'll firmly stand.
Forward looking, outward reaching
‘To our purpose ever true,
“Excelsior” is e’er our motto,
Hail, New York State, here’s to you.
Business women of the nation,
All for each and each for all,
When we learn the need for service,
We will always heed the call;
Thinking clearly, acting wisely,
All our might and main is hurled
*Gainst all wrong and ‘gainst injustice,
For a Better Business World.
“Austrian National Hymn”
Kathryn "Starbuck, Saratoga Springs ’35

notes

95


96

acknowledgements

This history concentrates on the progress and the accomplishments of our
organization for the past 60 years.

Space did not allow to list the names of the Executive Officers, District
Directors, Assistant District Directors, Standing and Special Chairmen of each
year. As our Federation grew, so did the size ol our Board of Directors and
Chairmanships. We are truly grateful to all of these leaders for the contributions
they have made to our growth.

A sincere “thank you” to:

‘All State Historians, whose yearly records made this job easier.

Margaret Barnard, Albany Club, a dedicated member who collected most

of our records over the years.

Marilyn Stedman, Eastwood Club, for the typesetting and time consuming

proof-reading.

Marie Creel, Albany Club, for ding me for this

State President Helen Olsen and her Executive Committee, for allowing me the

priviledge of producing this 60 year history.

Ann 1. Costello,
Eastwood Club


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nsitotity

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