Power of Positive Parenting

The Power of Positive Parenting Classes are being offered on Tuesday nights starting at 7:00 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in room 114 through the month of November.

Topics include:

Make time for positive interaction
Realistic Expectations - for you and them
Positive and Negative Consequences speak for you
Knowing when to be quiet

RSVP:  Betsy Lowe at betsy4kids@aol.com

2010 National Convention in New York City

April 28, 2010 at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City, the 75th Annual National American Mothers Convention is underway.

Board meetings on the second floor, State President meetings just after… a very busy time for us while we are there. One of the most enjoyable elements of the convention is listening to the Mother of the Year and Young Mother speeches.

Before the speeches begin the mothers socialize or review their thoughts

Betsy and Kimberly Wright

Betsy, as National Literacy Chairperson presenting the West Virginia State President with the check for the 5th grade essay contest winner.

Betsy with Sunny Welch. Sunny is the National Chairperson for Mother's Against Abuse. This is one of Betsy's favorite programs to support. She distributes booklets entitled "In Control" (for boys), and "Be Strong) for girls.

Saturday afternoon lunch outside at a cafe' on the perimeter of a church. Lunch with Connell Branan, Past National Young Mother, Ansley Barnett, Past National Young Mother, and Andrea Ball, newly appointed Executive Director.

At the 2010 National Convention Gala!

Left to Right: Betsy Lowe, Kentucky State President & 1996 Ohio Young Mother, Kimberly Wright, 2009 National Young Mother, Kimberley Shelton, 2008 National Young Mother, Ansley Barnett, 2006 National Young Mother, and Connell Branan, 2007 National Young Mother. (and great friends)

Betsy with friends and associates from the national board: Marilyn Dougall (Oregon), Joan Pryor (Washington DC), Betsy, Valerie Earnshaw (Vermont), and Ansley Barnett (Georgia).

After the Gala, the Young Mothers and I went on a tour of Manhattan Island, compliments of the Young Mother from New York. We walked from the Waldorf Astoria to the Empire State Building. Upon viewing New York from the top of the Empire State Building we rented a limousine to take us around town.

The limo drove us all around Manhattan including a drive to Central Park.

Winners of 5th Grade Essay Contest in Courier Journal

Harmony students' essays win contest

Three students from Harmony Elementary School are winners in the seventh annual Kentucky Association of American Mothers Inc. 5th Grade Essay Contest. Maggie Nixon Duke won first place, Emily Faith Wheeler, second, and Sierra Robinson, third. Here are their essays:

What does my mom mean to me? My mom means a great personality and always willing to help me when my "plans" don't go as I intended them to. Also, a friend because she is always doing zany things to make me laugh like putting blue streaks in my hair.

When we're together it's like we have our own little world. It's always an adventure when I get to hang out with my mom. I love it when we camp out in the living room and watch our favorite TV shows.

I know she really loves me when she lets me help her with her photography business. It is always fun to be around my mom! Even when I get in trouble I know she will always love me and I will always love her too. I love my mom so much. She is my best friend!

--Maggie Nixon Duke

My mother means to me ... love. Almost all mothers are loving, but my mom makes me feel loved in every special way. My mom is someone I can always count on.

My mother is loving because she is always giving me hugs and kisses. She always is patient with people or situations even when I am not. I love when we do crafts together and when she teaches my friends and me how to cook. She makes what seems like such hard work, so much fun because she loves it. She has taught me that I can do anything I put my mind to, if I do it with love; and it's okay to fail as long as I try.

But most of all, she is an optimist. I hope this is something I will learn from her. My mom is the best mom I can ever have.

--Emily Faith Wheeler

There's an amazing lady I call mom. Every day she thinks about me. She says she always loves me even when I'm bad. All her actions and thoughts are centered around making me feel safe and loved.

She helps me with my homework, makes my lunches for school (sometimes includes an "I love you" note). Mom will attend all my school performances, and is my biggest cheerleader. She'll even schedule the play dates with my friends.

Mom schedules vacations, like the one time she planned a cruise, when she arranged a trip to Hilton Head. Some other fun things she does is watch girly movies with me. Other times she'll play a board game or come up with a fun craft.

Most of all I love my mom. I can tell her anything. She's the one I go to when I'm sick or hurt, and will always give big hugs.

--Sierra Robinson

SPRING MEETING

Dear Friends and members of American Mothers,

Greetings! We have been on a roller coster here in Kentucky with our AMI program. Up here in Louisville and Oldham County we have been teaching “The Power of Parenting Classes” as Goshen Elementary School and Harmony Elementary School. These classes provide lessons on parenting that can influence and make changes for good in our communities. I am very pleased with our dedication to this cause and ask you if you’d be interested in donating one hour a week (for 8 weeks) to teach these lessons in the area where you live. If so, please contact me at betsy4kids@aol.com or 502-749-4339.

We also have had our ups and downs with our search, find and search again for the state Moher of the Year and Young Mother. We approached several wonderful candidates that were nominated by neighbors, clergy, and schools; however, all the MOY candidates refused. We had one Young Mother candidate accept, but then decline as her family is moving this week to Michigan.

We had 48 students entries in the annual 5th Grade Essay Contest “What My Mother Means to Me”. The state judges have finished judging the essays and the 1st place winner has been forwarded to the National competition. We will announce the winner at our State meeting.

After a few changes, the State Meeting is scheduled for April 17 at 10:00 a.m. at the home of Betsy Lowe (6104 Laurel Lane, Prospect, KY). This is also the day of “Thunder Over Louisville.” I hope that is okay with everyone. It is my hope that we can conduct our business, and then enjoy the festivities of Louisville without difficulty. Lunch will follow the meeting at a local restaurant (around $12 per person). Please RSVP to Betsy Manship by April 5.

I am very excited to be attending the National Convention in New York the last week of April. Please let me know if you are attending too. This is the 75th anniversary - Mothers and Diamonds are Forever.

Since we were not able to have our meeting in January or February, we will need you to mail in your AMI dues ($35) to Mark Lowe, State AMI Treasurer, 6104 Laurel Lane, Prospect, KY 40059 - or - you can bring them to the meeting.

Since we do not have a MOY or YM candidate, I’m not sure if we want to hold the auction. Please email me with your opinion - betsy4kids@aol.com.

Sincerely,

Betsy Lowe

State President

American Mothers, Inc.

Betsy4kids@aol.com

New Year - New Parenting

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

The "Power of Positive Parenting" classes are starting again!

Every TUESDAY,

Starting January 5, 2010

(with the exception of Fall Break)

at 8:45 a.m.

at Harmony Elementary School

Goshen, KY

-

Course Topics:

Week 1: Make Time for Positive Interactions

Week 2: Establishing and Communicating Expectations

Week 3: Establishing and Dispensing Consequeces

Week 4: Picking Your Battles

Week 5: Staying Calm - Don't become part of the problem

Week 6: Reinforcing Appropriate Behaviors

Week 7: Letting your Love Show

Week 8: Helping your child succeed in School (involving the school counselor)

-

Lessons adapted from: The Power of Positive Parenting by: Dr. Glenn Latham

Parents: mothers, fathers, step, foster - anyone that deals with kids

is welcome to attend the "Power of Positive Parenting Classes"

-

The classes are one hour long each week for eight (8) weeks

The cost is only $10 total! (not per class)

-

To register - email Betsy Lowe at betsy4kids@aol.com

Any question or if you are interested in starting your own group - please contact Betsy Lowe at the above email or at 749-4339.

POWER OF POSITIVE PARENTING - Fall 2009

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

The "Power of Positive Parenting" classes are starting come October!

Every TUESDAY,

Starting October 6, 2009

(with the exception of Fall Break)

at 8:45 a.m.

at Harmony Elementary School

Goshen, KY

-

Course Topics:

Week 1: Make Time for Positive Interactions

Week 2: Establishing and Communicating Expectations

Week 3: Establishing and Dispensing Consequeces

Week 4: Picking Your Battles

Week 5: Staying Calm - Don't become part of the problem

Week 6: Reinforcing Appropriate Behaviors

Week 7: Letting your Love Show

Week 8: Helping your child succeed in School (involving the school counselor)

-

Lessons adapted from: The Power of Positive Parenting by: Dr. Glenn Latham

Parents: mothers, fathers, step, foster - anyone that deals with kids

is welcome to attend the "Power of Positive Parenting Classes"

-

The classes are one hour long each week for eight (8) weeks

The cost is only $10 total! (not per class)

-

To register - email Betsy Lowe at betsy4kids@aol.com

Any question or if you are interested in starting your own group - please contact Betsy Lowe at the above email or at 749-4339.

SAVE THE DATE

The Kentucky AMI board has set the date for the Winter Meeting.

Please save February 20, 2010 as the date for our next State Meeting!

More details will be posted as time gets closer.

A CELEBRATION OF MOTHERHOOD

It was a beautiful day at the State Capitol in Frankfort, KY for hosting the Annual American Mothers, Inc. Celebration of Motherhood.

Betsy Lowe, President of the Kentucky Association of American Mothers, Inc. conducted the celebration in the Press Room at the Capitol.

Tori Hafner was presented Honorable Mention Winner of the

2009 5th Grade Essay Contest

Heather Wiley was presented the 2nd place honor,

And Chris Chu of Prospect, KY was honored as the first place winner of the 2009 Kentucky 5th Grade Essay Contest, and the First Place Winner of the National 5th Grade Essay Contest entitled "What My Mother Means to Me" "I am delighted to present you with the honor of being the First Place Winner of the National 5th Grade Essay Contest," said Lowe.

The students with their mothers!

What a great day! See you all next year at the Capitol.

CELBEBRATION OF MOTHERHOOD

You are cordially invited to attend a

CELEBRATION of MOTHERHOOD

held at the State Capital Building

Frankfort, KY

May 9, 2009

11:00 a.m.

Press Room

Honoring 5th Grade essay participants and winners!

RSVP: Betsy Lowe at betsy4kids@aol.com or 502-749-4339

CHRIS CHU of KENTUCKY wins National Essay Contest

At the National Convention in Portland, Oregon Betsy Lowe, National Literacy Chairperson announced the winners of the National Essay Contest. There were 19 states that participated in the contest including Idaho, Oregon, Wyoming, Arizona, Hawaii, Nebraska, Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Delaware, New Jersey, Maryland, Maine, and the great state of Kentucky. The first place essay winner is from Kentucky - Chris Chu, the second place essay winner is from Oklahoma - Stephanie Bradford, and the third place winner is from Texas - Kamish Kabani.

Congratulations

Chris Chu

on winning the

2009 National 5th Grade Essay contest!

2009 NATIONAL CONVENTION - PORTLAND OREGON

The 74th American Mothers, Inc. National Convention was held at the Embassy Suites in Portland, Oregon from April 23 - April 26. It was a wonderful four day event. At the Wednesday night banquet, Mrs. Bobbie Burbridge Lane was honored for her hours of donated service and her generous monetary donations to AMI in the effort to stop pornography. Betsy Lowe, State President has supported Mrs. Lane since 2002. They have worked hard to change law in Louisville and around the state. Above: Betsy Lowe, KY State President with Bobbie Burbridge Lane of the Burbridge Foundation.Above: Ilene Barlow - National Awards Chairperson, Betsy Lowe - National Literacy Chairperson and Judith Joe - National Literature Chairperson.

On Thursday we had State President's training. We also were priviledged to hear the Young Mothers speeches and attend workshops and hear from some the of the nationals best at mediation in schools, the problems of meth, character development, problems with pornography and internet bullying. We honored the 2008 National Mother of Young Children at the Lunchoen. Thursday evening was the Awards Banquet. Betsy Lowe along with Judith Joe and Ilene Barlow presented the National Awards. Betsy was very pleased to announce the winners of the National 5th Grade Essay contest: 1st place - Chris Chu from Kentucky, 2nd place - Stephanie Bradford from Oklahoma, and 3rd place - Kamish Kabani from Texas.

On Friday, we had the priviledge of hearing the Mother of the Year speeches and then attending the Gold and Silver or Tapestry gatherings. Lunch was in honor of our 2008 National Mother of the Year, Jo Blackwood. Friday evening was honoring the 2009 Young Mothers and the announcement of the 2009 - National Mother of Young Children. Mrs. Kimberly Wright of Nevada was selected. I had several opportunity to get to know Kimberly - she is such a delightful young mom!

Above: Connell Branan - Area V Coordinator, Ansley Barnett - Past NMYC, Kimberly Wright- 2009 NMYC, Kimberley Shelton - 2008 NMYC, and Betsy Lowe - KY State President, National Literacy Chair and past MYC (Ohio).

Kimberly with her husband!

Saturday started with the Interfaith Memorial Breakfast. Special attention was given to Phyllis Marriott, and Nancy Hawk, both Past National Presidents. It was followed by the Legacy Project and the Garden tour. What spectacular gardens are seen in Portland.

After the Garden Tour, our expedition to us to the University of Portland for the unvailing of the "Walk of the Heroines - Legacy Walk." I felt so priviledged to be at the very special ceremony to see all the amazing work that had gone into making this beautiful walk and fountain in the name of famous women and mothers.Later that evening was the Gala Dinner. What a spectacular evening. Ms. Betty Jean McGregor from South Carolina was named as the 2009 National Mother of the Year.

Mrs. Betty McGregor of South Carolina was named 2009 National Mother of the Year.

Mrs. McGregor receiving a kiss from her husband.

5th Grade Parent - Middle School Orientation Night at Goshen Elementary

American Mothers, Inc. was invited to have a booth at "5th Grade Night" at Goshen Elementary School for the parents of rising 5th grade students. The night's intention is to prepare parents for what awaits them in middle school. We had our parenting class sign up sheet out, along with other AMI literature including the Mother's Against Abuse booklets - "In Control" and "Be Strong".

In Control and Be Strong booklets were written for the middle school aged boy (In Control) and middle school aged girl (Be Strong). They are a great resource for kids and adults.

It was a great way to introduce American Mothers, Inc. to parents and share our message.

STATE 5th GRADE ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS

The Kentucky Association of American Mothers, Inc. is pleased to announce the winners of the 2009 5th Grade Essay Contest "What My Mother Means to Me."

Chris Chu, a fifth-grader at Goshen Elementary was inspired to write this essay because his mother is not just a caring mother, but also his best friend, teacher and coach. His essay, "What My Mother Means to Me," won first place in the state contest sponsored by American Mothers, Inc. (AMI). His essay will compete at the national level. The winner at the national level will be announced during American Mothers, Inc. National Convention held in Portland, OR on April 24, 2009.

American Mothers Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the moral and spiritual foundation of the family and home. "The strength of our future is our children," said Betsy Lowe, State President and AMI National Literacy Chairperson. "I especially enjoy supporting this program because it encourages children to take time to think about what their mother does for them, as well as promote writing and communication skills. I love reading these thoughtful essays. They touch my heart."

There were 98 participants from the around the state, 42 participants from Oldham County in the essay contests. Chu's essay took first place in the state. Three students from Harmony Elementary took second, third and Honorable Mention. Heather Wiley took second place. She states, “I couldn’t live without her, it would be like breathing with no air, seeing with no color, and reading a book with no words”, Kaitlyn Hampton, took third place sharing how her mom shows love for her, and Victoria Hafner’s essay was so impressive she received an Honorable Mention. In her essay she shares how her mother helped her cope with an alcoholic dad and divorce."

Participants in the American Mother's Fifth Grade Essay Contest were required to write a 150-essay essay entitled "What My Mother Means to Me." The contest was open to all fifth-graders in the state. A team of sixth grade teachers from North Oldham Middle School judged the contest using the Rubric Scoring Guide for paragraph, report and essay writing.

American Mothers, Inc. State President, Betsy Lowe of Prospect was at Harmony Elementary School on Tuesday, April 14 to present the three winners from that school with certificates. The presentation was shown on their video morning announcements. She was at Goshen Elementary School on Tuesday, April 21st to present Chris Chu his certificate in front of his 5th grade class. It was broadcast on the school news the following morning. An official awards ceremony will be held at the next American Mothers, Inc. State meeting where each of the winners will be recognized. "They are touching," she said. "They show excellent use of creative expression and language skills."

This is the fifth year for the contest, and Lowe said she appreciates the efforts of schools to create more involvement in the program. She said she hopes the contest doubles in size next year.

The theme is the same, and the winners again will be announced before Mother's Day. The Entry form can be downloaded from http://www.americanmothers.org/.


Winning Essays reveal writer’s hearts

First place: Chris Chu
Prospect

"Everyone thinks his/her mom is special in many different ways. I consider my mom is not just a caring mother, she is also my best friend, teacher, and coach for life.

Doctors delivered the dreariest news to my mom when I was three years old. "Autism Spectrum Disorder." They predicted I will never be able to catch up with my peer group, academically or socially. That broke my mom's heart. Fortunately, mom never let those words stop her from helping me to achieve my highest potentials. For years, I was reading without comprehending. Mom would spend endless hours reading with me, made sure I understood every word I read. Whenever, I behaved improperly, mom always took time to explain and correct my mistakes.

Today, I am still struggling with many difficulties. But with my mom's help, I am confident, I will be as successful as any of my peer groups. Thank you mom!"

Second place: Heather Wiley
Goshen

What my mom means to me, my mom means endless hugs on depressing days. She means being the loudest when she cheers me on in Cross Country. Where would I be without food, clothes, a clean house and love? Nowhere. Well, that’s what my mom does. You always know she’s there for you. When you are sad, angry, frustrated or even annoyed she’s there. I love my mom and she loves me. My mother means giggles over silly mistakes, making funny noises on glum days, watching T.V. together, laughing ‘til we cry. My mom in my dictionary means “special.” There’s no one better than my mom. I couldn’t live without her it would be like breathing with no air, seeing the world with no color, and reading a book with no words. It’s just not possible. My mom is the world and more. Thank you mom for everything you do!

Third place: Kaitlyn Hampton
Goshen

My mother means the world to me. She takes care of me when I’m sick and buys me dogs. See how nice my mom is.

My mom helps me when I’m sick by taking my temperature about every hour. She also buys me ice cream even if I’m sick. There was this one time when I was sick with a fever. My mom bought me a new jacket and two little ice cream cups.

My mom rocks because she bought me a puppy when we were moving. She bought me the puppy so I wouldn’t feel bad when we moved. Once we got to Kentucky I didn’t feel sad because my dog is energetic exciting and funny. So probably no mom has thought of that when they moved.

Thank you for reading my piece now. I hope you know what my mom means to me. Now I hope you pick my piece.

Honorable Mention: Victoria Hafner
Prospect

My mom means the world to me. She did the most responsible action in someone’s lifetime. She made sure her children weren’t miserable. She conquered the pain that made her ache daily. How did she do this?

My mother put up with my dad while he was an alcoholic. She strained in his lies, insults, and threats. She made sure we were safe while my dad went out to have fun. She tried to help him recover and bring our family back together. She tried to save my tears everyday.

Surprisingly, she did eliminate crying. She did this by spending time and comforting me. It was just too much for her to fix a lifetime crisis. Everyday after the divorce, she talked to me and gave me advice. She paid money to let us talk and get advice from someone.

As I said, my mom did the most responsible action ever.

CHAPTER GROUP STARTING

We are excited to announce AMI will be hosting "Parent to Parent" classes starting January 13, 2009. The session includes 8 weeks of classes presented by Betsy Lowe (AMI State President) and Heather Deshler (2008 YM). Classes will be held on Tuesday mornings starting at 9:00 a.m. running one hour. The place is still TBD. There is a minimal cost to attend is $10 to cover materials.

Course topics:
Week 1: Make Time for Positive Interactions
Week 2: Establishing and Communicating Expectations
Week 3: Establishing and Dispensing Consequeces
Week 4: Picking Your Battles
Week 5: Staying Calm - Don't become part of the problem
Week 6: Reinforcing Appropriate Behaviors
Week 7: Letting your Love Show
Week 8: Helping your child succeed in School (involving the school counselor)

Lessons adapted from: The Power of Positive Parenting by: Dr. Glenn Latham

For more information, please contact Betsy Lowe at bloweAMI@aol.com or at 749-4339.

Press Release

Heather is to be featured in a future issue of the TODAY'S WOMAN magazine.