March marks a seasonal and cultural transition in many parts of the United States. March is widely recognized for observances such as Women's History Month, highlighting the contributions of women across sectors, and St. Patrick's Day on March 17, a cultural celebration with Irish roots. In some years, Christian communities observe Lent during March, a period of reflection leading up to Easter. Collectively, March represents renewal, increased activity, and forward momentum as communities transition from winter into spring.

Cultural and Religious Celebrations

• St. Patrick's Day (March 17th): This holiday commemorates Ireland's patron saint and is known for parades, wearing green, and enjoying Irish culture.

• Purim (Judaism): This holiday commemorates the Jewish people's deliverance from destruction in the Persian Empire. Celebrations include the reading of the Book of Esther, charity, gift-giving, and festive meals. The date varies, occurring on March 2nd and 3rd in 2026.
• Ramadan (Islam): This holy month is for fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims worldwide. The start and end dates shift annually, occurring between late February and late March in recent years. Ramadan began on March 1, 2025, and ends around March 31, 2025. 
• Feast of the Annunciation (Christianity): Celebrates the announcement by the Angel Gabriel to Mary that she would give birth to Jesus. It is celebrated on March 25th, but the date may vary depending on other holidays, such as Holy Week and Easter Week, or Sundays.
• Easter (Christianity): This major Christian holiday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The date varies each year, occurring in late March or April. In 2024, it was on March 31st. 

• Cherry Blossom Festival Japan: A much-anticipated spectacle, painting the landscape with delicate pink and white blossoms. It runs from March 24th to April 28th in 2025.

Raising Awareness

• Women's History Month: Throughout March, the nation celebrates the contributions of women to American history and society.

• International Women's Day: A global celebration honoring the achievements of women.
• Employee Appreciation Day: Recognizes and celebrates the hard work and dedication of employees, often observed with team-building activities, gifts, or awards ceremonies.

Significant Women's Events In March

• March 3, 1913: The first major march for women's suffrage in Washington, D.C., organized by the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA), aimed to secure the right to vote for women across the country, not just in individual states.
• March 1917: The National Woman's Party was formed, dedicated to getting women the right to vote.
• March 4, 1917: Jeannette Rankin took her seat as the first female member of Congress.
• March 4, 1933: Frances Perkins became the first female member of the United States Cabinet, serving as the United States Secretary of Labor.
• March 12, 1912: Juliette Gordon Low founded the Girl Scouts in Savannah, Georgia.
• March 12, 1993: Janet Reno was sworn in as the first woman U.S. Attorney General.
• March 20, 1925: Ramona Acosta Bañuelos, the first Hispanic to hold the role, became the 34th Treasurer of the United States.

To Your Success,

Dr. Di Ann Sanchez, SPHR, SHRM - SCP

This blog highlights our February meeting with guest speaker Fort Worth City Manager Jay Chapa. He gave a wonderful presentation discussing the city's future and upcoming fiscal priorities. Accompanied by members of his staff, Mr. Chapa provided an engaging overview of how Fort Worth is navigating rapid growth while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Key Takeaways from the Presentation:

• Growth and Population Trends: Fort Worth is projected to see a 31.6% increase in population between 2024 and 2050, with much of that growth expected on the city's outer limits.

• The FY26 Budget: The adopted operating budget stands at $3.09 billion. Key themes include managing the evolving property tax landscape and implementing strategic 1% cuts to ensure efficiency.

• Tax Rate Reductions: The city has reduced the tax rate from $0.6725 in FY25 to $0.6700 for FY26.

• 2026 Bond Program: A significant portion of the talk focused on the proposed $845 million bond program, which includes:

  • Streets & Mobility: $511.5 million

  • Parks & Open Space: $185.1 million

  • Public Safety: $63.9 million

  • Animal Care & Shelter: $59.9 million

  • Affordable Housing: $10.0 million

• Important Dates: Community engagement events for the bond will take place from late March through mid-April, with the Bond Election scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026.

We are grateful to Mr. Chapa and his team for their transparency and for taking the time to answer our members' questions regarding the city's trajectory and legislative priorities.

Here is his presentation: 

02-11-2026 - Women's Policy Forum _ Jay Chapa _ final.pdf

Welcome to the Love Month! Moreover, February has been the backdrop for several pivotal moments in history that have reshaped societies and deepened our collective understanding of justice, freedom, and human dignity. February may be the shortest month of the year, but it carries a profound weight of meaning, reflection, and purpose. Rooted in the celebration of Black History Month, February invites us to honor the resilience, achievements, and contributions of Black leaders who have shaped our nation’s past and present. It is also a time to reflect on love in all its forms—through Valentine’s Day, acts of kindness, and community care. February reminds us that even in the coldest days, there is warmth in remembrance, power in unity, and hope in progress.

We are so excited to have our Fort Worth City Manager, Jay Chapa, speak this month. He will speak about several items regarding Fort Worth’s future. Please bring friends and encourage membership.  Dr. Stacy Burrell (Chair Elect) has done an amazing job programming speakers for the Women’s Policy Forum of Tarrant County for 2026. https://fortworthbusiness.com/featured/jay-chapa-fort-worth-city-manager-to-speak-at-womens-policy-forum-luncheon/

Raising Awareness

February is not only a month for celebration and remembrance, but also a time for raising awareness about critical social and health issues.

• World Day of Social Justice: Observed globally on February 20th to advocate for fairness and inclusivity.
• International Day of Women and Girls in Science: Celebrated on February 11th, this day promotes diversity in STEM fields and recognizes the contributions of women and girls in science. 
• Heart Health Month: This is a significant focus in February, aimed at raising awareness about cardiovascular health and encouraging people to take steps to prevent heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. The first Friday in February is also National Wear Red Day, a day to highlight women's heart health.
• Black History Month honors the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape the nation. This month focuses on educating the public about the often-overlooked contributions of Black individuals and addressing the social injustices that persist in society.
• National Cancer Prevention Month: This month focuses on educating the public about cancer prevention and the importance of healthy lifestyle choices to reduce cancer risk.

Significant Women's Events In February

• Mid-1970s: The United Nations passed a resolution to establish International Women's Day. 
• 1987: Congress officially designated the entire month of March as National Women's History Month, coinciding with International Women's Day. 
• February 1, 1978: A postage stamp honoring Harriet Tubman, the first to celebrate a Black woman, was issued in Washington, D.C. 
• February 4, 1987: The first "National Women in Sports Day" was celebrated. 
• February 11, 1989: Barbara Harris became the first female bishop in the American Episcopal Church. 
• Feb 6, 1973: Government Printing Office ruled that the prefix "Ms." is an acceptable, optional identifying label in government publications.
• Feb 9, 1973: First convention of the National Women's Political Caucus met in Houston, TX.
• Feb 12, 1962: Eleanor Roosevelt became the first chair of the President's Commission on the Status of Women.
• Feb 15, 1921: The Suffrage Monument, depicting Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Lucretia Mott and carved by Adelaide Johnson, was dedicated to the nation's capitol.
• Feb 21, 1980: AFL-CIO voted to reserve 2 seats on its 35-member executive team for a woman and a member of a minority group.
• Feb 27, 1922: US Supreme Court upheld the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which guarantees women the right to vote.

To Your Success,

Dr. Di Ann Sanchez, SPHR, SHRM - SCP

Happy New Year!

I am excited to be the Chair of the Women's Policy Forum. I hope we can include as many women as possible from Tarrant County to join our mission and vision. My intention for my monthly newsletters is to provide our members with highlights of key events and women.

January is not only a month for celebration and remembrance, but also a time for raising awareness about critical social and health issues. 

• National Poverty in America Awareness Month: This observance shines a light on the struggles faced by millions of Americans living in poverty. It's a call to action for policymakers, nonprofits, and individuals to address economic inequality and create opportunities for all.
• Human Trafficking Prevention Month: Human trafficking affects millions globally. January serves as a time to educate, advocate, and mobilize efforts to end modern-day slavery and protect vulnerable populations.
• Cervical Health Awareness Day: Celebrated on January 23, this day raises awareness about maternal and reproductive healthcare in the United States.

Significant Women's Events in January

• Margaret Chase Smith became the first woman to serve in both the House and Senate (1949).
• Nellie Taylor Ross became the first woman governor in U.S. history (Wyoming) (1925).
• Amelia Earhart makes the first solo flight from Hawaii to North American (January 11, 1935).
• Nellie Bly, journalist, completed her around-the-world trip in 72 days, 6 hours, 11 minutes and 14 seconds after setting sail east to prove she could circle the globe in les than 80 days (January 25, 1890).
• Mary Decker became the first woman to run a mile in under 4 1/2 minutes, running it at 4:17.55 (January 25, 1980).
• Violet Neatly Anderson is the first black women to practice law before the U.S. Supreme Court (January 29, 1926).
• Hattie Wyatt Caraway became the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate (1932).
• Nancy Pelosi was elected the first woman Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives (2007).
• The Women's March, a large-scale demonstration advocating women's rights, took place in January 2017.
• Kamala Harris was sworn in as the first female Vice President of the United States (2021).

As we navigate the start of a new year, let us remember the lessons of the past, honor the diverse traditions that connect us, and commit ourselves to building a more informed, compassionate, and just world. Whether through remembrance, celebrations, or advocacy, January reminds us that every new beginning carries the legacy of those who came before--and the responsibility to shape a better future. Let's make it a great year.

To Your Success,

Dr. Di An Sanchez, SPHR, SHRM - SCP

by Nancy Amos

I’d love to tell you about my friend Betty Rowland and what I have learned from her.

Betty is a longtime member of Women’s Policy Forum. At 95 and a half years of age, she might just be the oldest member of our organization. She was already a member when I joined in 2000 or so, but I was busy working and didn’t really get to know her until many years later. She and Sandy Kautz became my very good friends over the years. They were both so very smart and had so much life wisdom—I loved when they shared insights with me. They both loved the outdoors and the Girl Scouts and supporting other women and giving to worthy causes and volunteering their time.

They almost always sat together at WPF meetings and symposiums, and they frequently saved me a place at their table. When I made my first trip to NYC 16 years ago, Sandy gave me a list of “must see” places that she had experienced when she went as a part of her work with Girl Scouts. Susan Fine introduced us all to Chadra Mezza, and one of my favorite memories was when Betty ordered a flight of homemade ice creams for dessert.

When Sandy couldn’t drive anymore, Betty became an expert at Uber. Remember that. Key to her independence. I have a photo of Betty and Sandy at Colonial Country Club giving Joan Kline a tutorial on summoning an Uber.

When Sandy died three years ago, I learned that Betty and Sandy had made a lot of plans. They decided that whoever died first, the other would continue to live in their beloved home independently as long as possible. Despite recommendations lovingly made for a retirement home, Betty has made a sweet life for herself in her home. She has some medical conditions that preclude her coming to our meetings, but she studies our newsletter to learn about new members who are carrying on the rich traditions begun so many years ago by Peg Knapp and Karen Perkins. And when I take your photos, please know it is so she can stay connected with friends.

Betty has taught me some lessons about how to stay independent and happy into my 90s. She has a beautiful routine for each day. Get up at the same time. Put on sturdy shoes so she won’t slip or fall. Cook breakfast. Take medicines. Use her walker for steadiness and balance. Stay in touch with friends via Facebook, phone calls, texts. Take care of her health. Get her hair done EVERY week. Use her reliable Uber driver to maintain independence. Count on daily delivery of Meals on Wheels. “It may not be what I would have chosen, but it is fresh good food and enables me to add things to go with the basics.” Rely on a friend who does a Braum’s run for her.

And so on. She doesn’t gripe about what she can’t do. She just inspires me. And she is the reason I am renewing my membership in WPF for another year. I hope some of you will start to follow her on FB and thank her for what she has meant to our organization even before you were a member.

The Women's Policy Forum (WPF) of Tarrant County is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2024 Mini Grant Program, distributing a total of $14,705 to organizations and individuals working to improve the lives of women and girls in Tarrant County. The winners were announced at the WPF's December meeting held on Wednesday, December 11th, at Ridglea Country Club.

"We are thrilled to support these outstanding organizations and individuals," said Michelle Crim, President of the WPF. "Their work is making a real difference in the lives of women and girls in our community."

The following organizations and individuals received mini grants:

• Alejandra Gutierrez

  • 4th Year Medical Student - $1,500 grant
  • The grant will support her attendance at the 2025 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida, where she will be submitting a dermatology abstract.

• Center for Transforming Lives

  • $2,500 grant
  • Client assistance funds for participants facing transportation barriers. 100% of funds received will be allocated directly to client assistance with $0 toward overhead.

• Fly Girlz Academy

  • $1,500 grant
  • The grant will support program workshops, including sessions on STEM, entrepreneurship, mental wellness, and leadership development for young girls.

• Mental Health Connection

  • $1,705 grant
  • The grant will fund training equipment directly related to the MHC Mental Health Workforce initiative, allowing staff to improve training preparation and delivery.

• One Safe Place

  • $2,500 grant
  • The grant will support registration costs for the week-long Camp Hope adventure, allowing children impacted by domestic violence to attend camp at no cost.

• SafeHaven of Tarrant County

  • $2,500 grant
  • The grant will support emergency shelter and supportive services for domestic violence victims through the SafeShelter program.

• Union Gospel Mission

• • $2,500 grant
  • The grant will be applied toward the cost of providing registration fees and supplies for five women in the Cosmetology Certification Program.

Congratulations to all the winners! 

The Women's Policy Forum of Tarrant County (WPF) is proud to host its 2024 Symposium, "Women's Political Behaviors," on Wednesday, November 13th, from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Tarrant Area Food Bank in Fort Worth, Texas. This insightful event will delve into the evolving political landscape for women. 

Speakers:

Attendees will gain valuable insights from a distinguished lineup of speakers:

• Keynote Speaker: Dr. Valerie Martinez-Ebers, a renowned expert on political behavior and the politics of race and ethnicity, will analyze women's voting trends over the past three election cycles. Dr. Martinez-Ebers is a Distinguished Research Professor of Political Science and Director of the Latina/o and Mexican American Studies Program at the University of North Texas.
• Janet Mattern, President of the League of Women Voters, Tarrant County, will offer her perspective.
• Leah M. King, CFRE, President of the JPS Foundation, will also share her insights.

Key Discussion Points:

• Women voting behaviors over the previous two election cycles.
• Key issues driving women's voting choices.
• Critical issues impacting women of color at the polls.

Event Details:

• Date: Wednesday, November 13th, 2024
• Time: 8:00 am to 12:00 pm
• Location: Tarrant Area Food Bank, 2600 Cullen St, Fort Worth, TX 76107
• Price: $50 for WPF members, $60 for non-members
• Registration: https://womenspolicyforum.org/event-5656005
• Sponsorship Opportunities: The WPF is seeking sponsors to support this important event. 

Thank You to Our Event Sponsors:

• Tarrant Area Food Bank
• TCU - Addran College of Liberal Arts
• Dynamic Development Strategies
• Sid W. Richardson Foundation
• M-Pak
• JPS Health Network

Join the conversation! Follow the WPF on social media for updates and event information.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/womenspolicyforum
• X: https://twitter.com/wpftarrant
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenspolicyforumtarrant/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/womenspolicyforum/

About the Women's Policy Forum of Tarrant County:

The WPF is a non-partisan organization dedicated to empowering women in Tarrant County. Through educational programs, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts, the WPF works to increase women's visibility and impact on critical policy issues affecting the community.

Happy February! 

We’re already into the second month of the year where we celebrate Black History Month, along with National Cancer Prevention Month, American Heart Month, and Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month. I hope your 2024 is off to a positive start!

Join us on February 14 where you will LOVE the program featuring Tamara Payne, founder, and president of Ensemble Coworking and who is now is the operational force behind Sparkyard, a platform with resources designed to launch and grow businesses. Tamara is a community builder, a connector, a business strategist and consultant, and describes herself as a serial entrepreneur and a mentor.

Our Membership is Growing

As I write this column, I’m pleased to share that we’ve already had seven new applications for membership! I’m often asked about this group and why I belong. There are many reasons, but a few include:

• Timely insights on relevant community issues
• Connections to other female leaders
• Commitment to seeing positive change for Tarrant County

Whether you are a new member or have been involved for years, let me know why you joined and have stayed connected to Women’s Policy Forum.

History of Women’s Policy Forum

We were founded in 1987 by Karen Perkins and Peg Knapp, as a way to bring together Tarrant County women who are leaders in the home, in business, in government, and in nonprofit agencies. Our first general membership meeting was held in January 1987, and we published our first membership directory in July 1988. Over 37 years later, Women’s Policy Forum continues as a thriving organization of women leaders who support policies and initiatives that will create positive change for Tarrant County women and our community. Women's Policy Forum is a non-partisan educational and networking organization. 

Program Sponsorships Available – NEW

Want to promote your business or nonprofit at one of our monthly meetings? Starting at $500, sponsorships allow for your organization to be featured prior to and during a monthly meeting. Click HEREfor details.

Let’s have a great year TOGETHER!

See you soon!

Cheers,

Michelle Crim
Women’s Policy Forum Chair

Do you ever wonder if you've registered for a Women's Policy Forum meeting? Would you like to register for the entire year and not ever need to wonder again?

Meeting Bundles are now available and will entitle you to all monthly membership meeting with one quick registration. (Note: The November Emerging Issues Symposium is not included.) You receive a small discount as well as calendar invites for each meeting. You'll still receive information about the monthly meetings, but there's no need for you to register.

Please note that the Meeting Bundle is available for members only and meetings are not transferable or refundable.  

Sign Up Here

Happy New Year! Welcome to 2024, the year of the dragon according to the Chinese zodiac. In Chinese mythology, the Dragon is a symbol of strength, courage, creativity and innovation. 2024 is expected to be a year of potential and opportunity. I’m looking forward to an amazing year for Women’s Policy Forum and am excited to start my term as Board President.

We’re starting the year with an important program, Living Well, Perceptions of Aging and Why They Matter, from Dr. Cheryl Harding, President/CEO of James L. West Center for Dementia Care. Thank you, Amy Rasor, for serving as Program Chair and President-Elect. I appreciate your dedication to this organization and know you have a wonderful lineup planned for 2024.

Our Mission and Vision

Women’s Policy Forum of Tarrant County is an organization of influential women who investigate and support policies and initiatives that will create positive change for Tarrant County women and our community. Our vision is women leaders building a better Tarrant County. By attending our monthly programs and learning about the needs and resources in Tarrant County, you are better equipped to make an impact in our community.

Membership in Women’s Policy Forum is designed for individuals who have the desire to effect positive change for women and girls with the passion, energy and commitment to advocate for women and our community.

Women’s Policy Forum Foundation

Along with being a catalyst for women leaders in Tarrant County, did you know Women’s Policy Forum has a charitable arm focused on helping women and girls? The Women’s Policy Forum Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to positive change for women and girls in our community.

Our goals:

• To raise community awareness of issues impacting women and children.
• To raise and distribute funds to organizations that impact women and children.
• To raise and distribute funds to support the mission of Women's Policy Forum.

Stay tuned as we are launching a new initiative to help empower women-owned small businesses and nonprofits focusing on women and girls. We look forward to the impact Women’s Policy Forum can make in Tarrant County to enable other women to be their best.

Program Sponsorships Available – NEW

Want to promote your business or nonprofit at one of our monthly meetings? Starting at $500, sponsorships allow for your organization to be featured prior to and during a monthly meeting. Click HEREfor details.

Michelle Crim
Women’s Policy Forum Chair