As long as there have been women, they have been changing the world, State Auditor Crit Luallen told audience members at the eighth annual Women's History Luncheon at the Benham School House Inn on Monday.

The luncheon was held in honor of Women's History Month, March 2005.

Luallen urged the assorted group made up of men and women, city and county officials, business people and moms to do their part and forge a strong new chapter of history in America.

"Women have come a long way since the early days," Luallen said, "but we still have a long way to go. ... We can't separate women's issues from other vital issues, like education and health care."

She decried the inequalities that still exist in this region and nationwide, focusing on the problems that affect everyone.

More than half a million people in Kentucky, she said, are uninsured.

Cuts in education have led to higher tuition at colleges and universities.

Out of 20 students in the ninth grade now, only three will graduate from college, while 80 percent of new jobs will require some sort of college degree.

But Luallen said that Benham and the Tri-Cities are an example to be followed.

"It's the kind of spirit in this community that we need in every Kentucky community," Luallen said. "I only wish the same kind of risk-taking going on in state government."

The luncheon, themed "Women Change America," was sponsored by the Tri-Cities Woman's Club.

The club honored women who are making differences in their communities at the luncheon.

Robin Shanks, Dawn Nunez, Carolyn Sundy and Daisy Ray were recognized for their countywide achievements.

The club also recognized several club members for their contributions to the growing organization. Tammy Deal was honored as the newcomer of the year, Carolyn Sundy, member of the year and Barbara Ayers, volunteer of the year.