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THE LANE COUNTY WAND MEETING MODEL

Lane County WAND has found a way to empower women at the beginning of each of our monthly programs. A technique known as an "Anticipatory Set" provides a question that focuses our thoughts on the evening's topic. We discuss this question in pairs. Then we return to the full group to introduce each other and summarize the ideas we have just shared.

We find this format has several advantages:

• By introducing each other rather than ourselves, we tend to be more succinct in our comments.
• We get to know one another personally, thereby increasing the likelihood of return visits by newcomers.
• We direct our thoughts to the topic in a personal way.
• We practice public speaking in a supportive environment.

The question we will ask in our February meeting will be: Think of a time when you experienced a crisis. What fears lingered? What protective measures did you take to be sure it never happened again? The program that follows will be a report by Janice Zagorin on the Three Minutes to Midnight conference in D.C. She will talk about the psychology of fear that perpetuates our reliance on a nuclear stockpile.

We also make sure to provide opportunities for action in each of our programs. After all, Action is WAND's middle name! As we learn about each topic, the action pieces allow us to go beyond "hand-wringing." Conversation with friends and neighbors is always on our list. Never underestimate the power of that simple action.