Skidaway Abigails l November 2023 |
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Abigail Adams struggled her whole life with the limitations that society placed upon her dreams.
Despite these hardships, she found a way to use her talents to serve her nation by assisting and advising her husband, President John Adams, and teaching and guiding her son, President John Quincy Adams. Source: nps.gov |
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As I write this message, the weather has finally turned cooler, and we are now looking forward to holiday celebrations in November and December with friends and family.
Here at The Landings we are truly fortunate. However, in an increasingly polarized political climate at local, state and national levels, we face many challenges. I am pleased to note the volunteer opportunities that are being planned to address these challenges by the newly revitalized Advocacy Committee co-chaired by Kiki Kornhauser and Joan Salvati.
Abigails volunteers will continue to attend Chatham County school board meetings in order to oppose efforts to ban books from school and public libraries. At Board of Elections meetings, we will speak out against the false narrative of widespread election fraud in the state.
All of us will have the opportunity to support future advocacy initiatives that accord with our values and mission. These include working for gun safety, preserving our coastal environment, promoting reproductive and maternal health, protecting refugee and immigrant families, supporting under-resourced youth and trafficking victims, and helping the unhoused.
We urge you all to join us for a special evening meeting devoted to Abigails advocacy on November 30 at 7:00 p.m. at the Messiah Lutheran Church.
We look forward to our November program (see below) and the many occasions that we will have for discussion, socializing, and games in the coming weeks.
Very best wishes,
Susan Terrio
President, Skidaway Abigails |
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Abigails November Program will welcome Tharros Place, Executive Director, Julia Wade, and Outreach Coordinator, Kate Templeton. |
Nov 9, 2023 3:30-4:30 p.m. Messiah Lutheran Church
1 W. Ridge Rd
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This November 9th, we will welcome Julie Wade, Executive Director, and Kate Templeton, Outreach Coordinator, of Tharros Place, to introduce us to what Tharros Place does and to update us as to its current status since opening this past September. The mission of Tharros Place is to cultivate a culture of courage for adolescent survivors of human trafficking through compassionate and safe residential care, empowered and respected staff, and collaborative community outreach. Trafficking is happening to children in our communities. Chatham County ranks 4th in the state for reported cases of trafficking of minors. Tharros Place provides support and shelter for survivors of human trafficking by providing residential services for girls between the ages of 12-17. Tharros, meaning courage in Greek, is the motivating force for survivors which allows them to envision the future that they desire for themselves. Julie Wade is a lawyer by training who has served Savannah’s non-profit community since 2017. Prior to joining Tharros Place, Julie served as an elected member of the Savannah County Board of Education, representing District One. Kate joined Tharros Place after her recent graduation from University of Georgia. Kate has a passion for health education and loves working with children.
Please join us for this informative presentation and discussion of this most vulnerable part of society. Co-ordinated by Carolyn DeFrancesco and Shanti Stone |
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ABIGAILS HOLIDAY PARTY INVITATION |
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Introducing our NEW Abigails Mah Jongg group
Mah Jongg promotes community due to the rhythm of the game itself. In between each round, you have a pause, where you are shuffling the tiles, or “washing” the tiles. And it’s just the right amount of time to have a little bit of conversation.
If you are interested in playing, please scroll down to register under Mah Jongg in the activities listed below. We would love to have you join us. |
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The Mediation Center of the Coastal Empire, Executive Director, Jill Cardenas. |
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On October 12th, the Abigails hosted Jill Cardenas, the Executive Director of The Mediation Center of the Coastal Empire. Jill passionately described the programs the Mediation Center offers, concentrating in her presentation on youth programs and Restorative Conferencing. Jill explained that the Mediation Center trains and uses volunteers, having 140 right now, and they also have a staff of 15. The Center receives referrals from schools, and the courts facilitate conversations between people who have had a disagreement, even when the disagreement has escalated to violence.
Jill noted that their terminology has changed from providing a "safe space" to providing a "brave space" in recognition of the bravery required to participate in face to face discussions of hard issues. Jill mentioned, in particular, a situation where their services were requested to mediate issues between a library staff and users, and teenage students who were coming in after school and causing disruptions.
Her account of bringing everyone together was fascinating and impressive, including mediators observing the issues, talking with the students, providing literature for parents and a restorative space for students acting out. Peer mediation in school settings was another program Jill explained in detail. The Center also offers court ordered mediation in civil cases, family law resources and community conversations.
Jill closed the program by thanking the major donors who support the Mediation Center, including the Kiwanis Club of Skidaway.
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Abigails Dining Out meets every month, exploring new restaurants and cocktail venues in Savannah. In October, the group shared conversations over delicious Indian cuisine at NaaN. When asked what they liked most about Dining Out, members said that they get to eat or drink in a variety of new places, with new people, and can have engaging discussions political or otherwise. On the Bench - Lakshmi Subramaniam, Diane Hartley, Valerie Edgemon, Cinda Spillane, Kerry Crist
In the Chairs- Shanti Stone, Cristine Danielson, Libby Walman Strugatch, Judy Monaco, Carol Bowen |
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WELCOME NEW ABIGAILS MEMBERS!
The Abigails Board has been visibly communicating the many benefits of being part of our Abigails community. As a result of these efforts, our membership has been increasing! Please join us in welcoming 14 new members joining this month — Jeanine Arden-Ornt, Ruth Ann Barkin, Leslie Brueske, Liz Feeney, Peri Kyriacos, Celine Longpre, Karen Olsson, Mary Mahoney, Melissa Mundell, Sara Rudd, Shelby Scheuerman, Gail Seigel, Julie Skibniewski and Katharine Wood.
Are your friends interested in learning more about the Abigails? Encourage them to check out our website for information or contact us directly to learn more about membership. You can also introduce your friends to Abigails by bringing them as a guest to one of our monthly meetings for only $10. |
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We know you’re thinking “How do I get one of those very cool Abigails logoed metal name badges?”. You can order one for $10.00 (including shipping) by clicking HERE.
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This month's spotlight features our IT Co-Chair, Susan Tauster |
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I'm originally from Chicago, Illinois. I've owned a home at The Landings for seven years, and have been a full time resident for five years.
My interests, hobbies or special skills include reading/literature, walking, qigong (a Chinese system of physical exercises and breathing control related to tai chi), and meditation. I was formerly a yoga instructor. I also enjoy Mah Jongg and pickleball.
Why did you join the Abigails?
To support and advocate for important issues with like-minded women. Although I’m unable to attend many events/ speakers due to my work schedule, I am a relatively new member and found the anniversary party to be inspiring.
What have been the highlights of your adult life? Raising my daughter after thinking I would never have children; remaining married to the man I love; traveling with family and friends; becoming immersed in the differently abled community here in Savannah stemming from my work as a Community Life Services Coach; my good health and gratitude for finding this amazing community of friends at this life stage here on Skidaway Island. Thank you, Susan, for your commitment and service to Skidaway Abigails.
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LEAP Into Advocacy
Members of the Skidaway Abigails are invited to Learn, Engage, Act and Participate in the new Abigails Advocacy initiative - LEAP into Advocacy.
Join us on November 30th, 7 PM at Messiah Lutheran Church to hear more about the direction and scope of our new Advocacy efforts. Whether you want to focus on voting rights, reproductive and maternal health, gun safety, education, environmental protection, or other areas of interest, we are ready to help you achieve your goals of bringing justice, equality, health and safety to our community and our planet. While at the meeting, we will highlight our areas of focus citing examples of activities related to each area as we join with local and national collaborators and partners.
The Advocacy Committee needs member support to increase our effectiveness as we try to make a significant difference in Savannah and beyond. If you have any questions, please contact Kiki at kbkornhauser@gmail.com
Date: Thursday, November 30th
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Messiah Lutheran Church
To register, please click on the link below. |
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Judy Blume Forever is a highly entertaining documentary about how a “nice” 1950’s housewife became a trailblazing author known for her radical honesty.
Judy Blume’s books revolutionized the way millions of young readers understood themselves and their sexuality. Her fearless mission to openly discuss taboo subjects paved the way to real debate and conversation around book banning, censorship and teen sexual discovery.
The film will be streamed at the home of Annette Carnow, 16 Robert Reid Court, on Monday, November 6 at 3:30 p.m.
Coordinated by Annette Carnow |
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Good Times Jazz Bar & Restaurant Sunday, November 12 11:00 a.m. 107 W Broughton St. Limited to 12 Abigails
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A.M. Book Club meets at 10 a.m. on the third Wednesday of the month, apart from the summer months. We are currently full but welcome anyone wanting to join our waiting list. Please contact Sheila Jannino at sjannino11@gmail.com. |
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P.M. Book Group meets on the last Wednesday of the month at 3:30 p.m. This month we will meet on November 15th. The book is Killers of the Flower Moon, and we would love to have you join us. Please contact Phyllis Aaron at 610-203-4393 or paaron@comcast.net.
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Are you interested in playing Mah Jongg with likeminded women? The group will meet on Tuesdays 2-4 p.m. in Abigails members homes.
Contact Carla Blumenthal if you're interested crsblumenthal@gmail.com
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Abigails Video Chats will next be scheduled for December! See you then.
Coordinated by Sheila Grossman |
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America We Need will resume in the new year. |
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A total of 21 Abigails and 12 Plus Ones, for a total of 33 participants, attended the highly successful Fall Potluck Dinners at 5 different homes on Sunday, October15th.
Mark your calendars! The next Abigails Potluck Dinners will be on Sunday, February 4, 2024.
See you at the table!
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Message From Your Board of Directors |
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Your 2023-2024 Board of Directors, like you, are proud Abigails members. We are committed to serving the mission and the members of Skidaway Abigails. We look forward to a great year with our Abigail friends and sisters in action! |
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President
Susan Terrio terrio.susan@gmail.com
Vice-President
Sue Stephenson
Sue Stephenson sueostephenson@gmail.com
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The Skidaway Abigails is a group of progressive, liberal women engaging in social, educational, and advocacy activities as a non-partisan organization. We foster a welcoming environment for friendship, provide an array of learning opportunities, and advance social justice impacting the broader community.
What We Value
A strong commitment to women's health and safety including family planning; health education, screening and research; and protection from domestic abuse and the full range of offenses against women, from harassment in the workplace to sex trafficking.
A society that provides services for its poor and its children including basic shelter, food, physical and mental healthcare, quality fact-based education, childcare, pre-K development and college opportunity.
Fair and equitable treatment for the working class including a livable minimum wage; pay equity for women; reducing the gap between the average employee's compensation and corporate executives'; affordable health care; a future in our country for working immigrants; and equitable treatment under the criminal justice system.
Fair and equitable treatment for our Lesbian/Gay/Bi-sexual/ Transgender population in all aspects of our society. We support their right to marry and create a family,
Regulation that respects individual freedom while protecting the community including the licensing and control of firearms; and eliminating unwarranted surveillance, personal data collection and criminal profiling.
Protecting our planet from mankind's impact on earth's climate and precious natural resources ranging from fresh water to the honey bee. We want to better understand opportunities to enhance sustainability.
Being informed and represented on political issues related to our values including voter registration and the right of citizens to vote; the stated positions of local, state and federal candidates; and access to articles and subject-matter-experts on value-related issues. |
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Current Elected Officials Contact Information |
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Governor Brian Kemp
206 Washington St, 111 State Capitol. Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 656-1776
https://georgia.gov/contact-georgiagov
US Rep. (Dist. 1) Earl "Buddy" Carter
6602 Abercorn St, Ste 105B, Savannah, GA 31405
(202) 225-5831
http://buddycarter.house.gov/contact/
US Senator Jon Ossoff
Hart Senate Office Building, Suite 825 B&C
Washington, DC 20510
202-224-3521 (DC)
https://www.ossoff.senate.gov
US Senator Raphael Warnock
Dirksen Senate Office Building, Suite B40D
Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-3643 (DC)
https://www.senate.gov/senators/117thCongress/warnock-raphael.htm
State Senator Ben Watson
320-B Coverdell Legislative Office Bldg, Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 656-7880
ben.watson@senate.ga.gov
State Senator Lester Jackson
110-B State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 463-5261
lester.jackson@senate.ga.gov
State Representative Jesse Petrea
408-B Coverdell Legislative Office Bldg, Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 657-1803
jesse.petrea@house.ga.gov |
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