NAWBO® Central Illinois - The PULSE

Our Sympathies

It is with sad hearts that we share the passing of long-time NAWBO member Alice Anthony's father and Tina Thomas's grandfather Assaf Trad, Sr.  Mr. Trad passed away on July 30th.  The visitation and funeral was Monday, August 1st.  Donations can be made to St. Sharbel Maronite Church, Peoria, IL or St. Sarkis and Bakhous Church.  Online tributes and memorials can be made through www.woolsey-wilton.com.

NAWBO Sister Doris Symonds to Receive Business Champion of the Year Award

Illinois Small Business Leaders to Receive SBA Regional Honors
Regional Administrator Marianne Markowitz to recognize Elaine Krieger of Krieger Kiddie Corporation, Hedy Ratner and Carol Dougal of Women’s Business Development Center, Doris Symonds of T.A.L.K. and Jacob Elster and Taylor Monk of Crop to Cup.

Women’s Business Champion of the Year—Doris Symonds, T.A.L.K— Teaching and Learning for Knowledge—Doris is a tireless advocate and mentor for women entrepreneurs in the Greater Peoria, Illinois area.  Doris has dedicated her life to improving the chances of business success for women business owners. Doris’ boundless energy and devotion to women makes her a household name in the area of business mentorship.

AWARD PRESENTED BY:  SBA Regional Administrator, Marianne Markowitz
                  
WHEN: Thursday, May 12, 12:30 PM—Award Presentation                
WHERE: Commerce Bank, 7400 North Orange Prairie Road, Peoria, IL 61615

Congratulations Doris!!

Read this PDF for full details. If your schedule permits, attend the award presentation.

Children’s Dyslexia Center Wins Grant!

Dear NAWBO SISTERS,

Thanks to all of you who voted for the Children’s Dyslexia Center in the Heart Technologies Great Heart Give! Because of you they  WON the $10,000 tech grant.
 
Thanks.
 
Alice T. Anthony

Refresh Leadership Live Simulcast

Even the most savvy business leaders will tell you great leadership isn't a skill you pick up overnight. It's a skill that must be developed over the course of a career through experience, continual learning, and collaboration.
 
That's the inspiration behind the Refresh Leadership Live Simulcast.
 
Join Express Employment Professionals on Wednesday, May 18 for this motivational event where you'll hear a diverse lineup of speakers who have built distinguished careers based on their unique insights into what it takes to be a great leader.
 
To find the nearest host location and to register, please visit the Refresh Leadership Live Simulcast Locations page.

Budding Artists Show Their Stuff!

Imagine strolling along, listening to a live piano player, sipping sparkling cider, nibbling hors d'oeuvres and gazing at children’s beautiful artwork displays as well as known artist in the area.  This is just how the children and families at A+ Children’s Academy will spend their evening Thursday night March 31 from 6-7pm. 

“Our children will be displaying their artistic talents in a gallery art show at our school, just like adult artists have art openings.” says owner Michelle Didesch-Rouland.  “Everyone is excited to dress up, mingle and enjoy the children’s work.  We also have four local artists Gene Malikowski (sculpture), Janet Jackson (Painter), Carol Lane (various mediums) and Cindy Leach (Reggio Emilia specialist) coming to share their work and give feedback to our teachers about the children’s work.  The Reggio way of teaching we do has a strong emphasis on the visual arts.  We thought what better way to respectfully display all the painting, weaving, sketching, sculpting and photographing the children worked on than a formal-like affair for families to mingle?  It is also a way for the children to meet and learn from professional artists and their variety of work.”

A+ Children’s Academy is a Reggio Emilia inspired school.  The Reggio Emilia approach to curriculum promotes a love for investigation.  The visual arts are used as a medium to advance thinking and learning.  The strong emphasis on “graphic languages” makes learning visible.  The emphasis on visual arts such as painting, weaving, sculpting and photography advances brain development and allows children to express what they’ve learned.

Jerry Ailshie will be providing live entertainment during the event.
A+ Children’s Academy is located at 6431 N. Big Hollow Road Peoria, Illinois 61615
(309)691-2998

Curves 13th Annual Food Drive

A note from Della Snyder...

Dear Friends, 

I am asking for your help in spreading the word.  Please pass this on to your contacts so that we can help as many people as possible.

During the month of April, Curves will participate in their 13th annual Food Drive to collect non-perishable food and cash donations to benefit local food banks.  From April 4-17, Curves will waive the membership fee for new members who donate a bag of non-perishable food.
          
The past few years have been difficult for so many families and this food drive is one way that you can make a real difference in your community.  I encourage everyone, not just our members or those who are thinking about joining Curves, please make a donation or drop off a bag of non-perishable food items to your local Curves in April. 

Also, tune in Sunday, April 3 at 8/7c to ABC’s new show, Secret Millionaire featuring Curves founders, Gary and Diane Heavin. Thank you in advance for forwarding this message.  I hope to make this a very successful event. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.  If you need contact information about your local Curves, please visit : www.curves.com.

Sincerely,

Della

Congratulations Again to Doris Symonds - Named 2011 Regional Champion of the Year!!

NAWBO-CIL Member Doris Symonds of “Talk to Doris Now” just received notice that not only did she win the State of Illinois Women in Business Champion of the Year 2011 Award, she has also won the Regional Women in Business Champion of the Year Award!

The Regional Award includes strong competitive state nominees from Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, Indiana, Minnesota and Michigan.  Doris and the other award winners will be honored at the 2011 Small Business Week Awards Reception and Presentation Ceremony to be held in Chicago.  This event will be sponsored by the United States Small Business Administration, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Small Business Development Center Network and SCORE-Counselors to America’s Small Business.  Congratulations Doris!

Please vote for the Valley of Peoria Dyslexia Center!

NAWBO sisters, 
 
We need your help. Please vote. 
 
I’ve been associated with the Valley of Peoria Dyslexia Center for several years.  The Center is a not-for-profit organization that tutors children with dyslexia in reading & spelling.  The services provided are free of charge.
 
Please help in getting the Center in the running for this tremendous technology package.  Heart Technologies, Inc. announced The Great Heart Give 2011, a $10,000 technology pkg for a local charity.  Follow the link below to nominate the Valley of Peoria Dyslexia Center.  Please pass this info along. The more nominations we get, the better our chances are. 
 
http://thegreatheartgive.com
 
The nomination tab is in the lower right corner.  The following info is needed:
Organization Name: Valley of Peoria Dyslexia Center
Contact Name: Gina Cooke
Organization Address: 2900 West Lake Ave
Organization City, Zip: Peoria, IL 61615
 
Contact Person:Gina Cooke
Contact Email:ginacooke@sbcglobal.net
Contact Number: 309-679-1888 or (309)-472-3639
 
Thanks.
Aleece Anthony

Dr. Tina Thomas O.D. Opens New Office

From NAWBO Member Alice Anthony:

I'd like to share my excitement with you and let you know my daughter Dr. Tina Thomas O.D. opened her office in Washington, IL, specializing in primary care Optometry, Ocular Disease Treatment, Pediatric & Geriatric Care. Specialty Contact Fits.

I can not tell you how excited I am for Tina to have her own office. I hope in few years I could send another email to my friends to let them know my grand daughter started new business. You know me and you know how strong I feel about the education of the next generation. I like to think all of us are doing what we can to make it all possible especially in this hard economic time.

Please stop by anytime and let Tina know her mother asked for your support. I hope to see you soon.

Thanks, Alice T. Anthony
aleece's Pita Chips
alice@aleeces.com

Grand Opening Invitation - Tina's Grand opening

Peoria County Board Candidate Mary Ardapple Dierker Launches Grassroots Campaign: Advocacy vs. Apathy

Mary Ardapple Dierker is running for Peoria County Board as District 11 representative to bring her style of business-smart community involvement and advocacy to the Peoria County Board – but she also hopes through her candidacy to encourage others to step up and become involved. Candidate Ardapple’s new Community Advocacy Rally campaign fundraiser will donate half the money raised to support community advocacy and fund her new P.I.E Leadership Award to be given to a Bradley University female student interested in the political process and leadership.

Peoria, IL (Vocus) September 14, 2010

The Friends of Mary Ardapple Dierker, who is a candidate for Peoria County Board representing District 11, recently announced a fundraiser and Community Advocacy Rally to promote community advocacy over political apathy.

On Wednesday, September 29th, the first Community Advocacy Rally campaign fundraiser will be held at Apple’s Bakery, 8412 N. Knoxville Avenue, Peoria, from 5 – 7 PM supporting Candidate Ardapple’s efforts to heighten awareness concerning the importance of voting and community involvement, to raise funds for her campaign and to establish the first annual P.I.E. (Promoting Involvement Ethically) Leadership Award scholarship. Fifty percent (50%) of all funds raised that evening will be given to the Institute for Principled Leadership at Bradley University to establish the new scholarship fund. This bipartisan institute will distribute an annual award, on Ardapple’s behalf, to a Bradley female student interested in the political process and leadership. “I am excited to be able to create the P.I.E. award,” stated Ardapple, who has been a conduit for progressive change in central Illinois and nationally. “This award helps us reach young women at an early age and serves to encourage them to develop a strong voice for their future communities.”

There is a minimum $30 donation at the door, and attendees will enjoy beverages, including wine and beer, Hors D’oeuvres and music. Online donations may be made at www.ardapple.com. Ardapple hopes you will join her in this effort to redirect the thinking of as many as possible to reject political apathy and become involved in their communities, which will create a new positive mindset for the future of our County.

For more information please contact Mary Ardapple Dierker at 309-657-8722 or mary(at)ardapple(dot)com

About the Ardapple Campaign for Peoria County Board:
As a small business owner for many years, Mary has continuously adapted her business to meet changing economic conditions and customer demands. Through hard work, perseverance and a creative approach, she has made Apple’s Bakery into a thriving business that focuses on quality, service and customer satisfaction.

Mary will bring these same qualities to the Peoria County Board as District 11 representative. She will use her business skills to improve public services, increase cost efficiency and treat taxpayers as customers.

Now, more than ever, government needs new leaders—leaders with a track record of success and new ideas, energy and vision to move the county forward. Mary Ardapple is a proven leader you can trust who will focus on economic growth, fiscal conservatism and quality services.

###

Doris Symonds Ribbon Cutting

Doris Symonds, CEO of T.A.L.K. Company (Teaching & Learning for Knowledge) celebrated with an open house acknowledged by the local Peoria Chamber of Commerce.   The open house was incorporated into the June 24 Small Business Networking Conference with keynote speaker, Diana Hall, CEO of Bard Optical!  The conference was held at the Embassy Suites Conference Center.  Doris is the membership chair of NAWBO.

www.talktodorisnow.com

Ron’s Carpets Named a Winner of the 2010 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Business Integrity

Local Peoria business Ron’s Carpets received a 2010 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Business Integrity on May 6.  Owner Carol Hayse accepted the award in front of about 200 area business leaders at a dinner held at the Hotel Pere Marquette.

“This is a very proud moment for me, our employees, and my entire family,” said Hayse. “It recognizes our integrity, family values, and dedication to customer service.”

Ron’s Carpets, Inc., is a retail floor covering store located at 1003 N.E. Adams Street in Peoria. Hayse and her team have been serving the area for 18 years.

Hayse said the business began with her husband Ron’s desire to build a company based on relationships, with an emphasis on treating people fairly and always exceeding customer expectations.

“When we started, the only thing we had to build our business on was who we were as people.  I truly believe that it has always been that simple, honest, straightforward way of doing business that keeps customers coming back.”

After Ron died in 1997, she knew she faced a challenge as a woman business owner in a male-dominated industry. But her family rallied behind her. The business has employed Carol’s son, sister-in-law and brother.

“Together with non-related employees who we’ve ‘adopted’ into the Ron’s Carpets family,” Hayse said, “we’ve grown the business into an example of what an ethical and values-focused company really can be.”

“Our mission at Ron’s Carpets is to provide products and services which meet our customers’ needs and expectations.  Customers are the prime focus of everything we do.”

Also honored at the awards dinner were Woods Basement Systems and Jim Maloof Realtor. The companies competed against other like-sized businesses in three categories. An independent panel of judges chose the winners.

“The winning companies were deemed to exercise integrity and consistently meet very high standards in their relationships with customers, employees, vender/suppliers, industry peers and our community.” said Jessica Tharp, Vice President of the Central Illinois Better Business Bureau.

Hayse knows it’s because of these high standards that her business is as strong as it is today.

“Today, as I look at what Ron’s Carpets has become, I see a business that is truly making a difference because of those operating values which were in place from day one. It is very rewarding to honor my husband’s legacy in this way.”  

Save the Date for Food, Fun & Networking!

Mark your calendars for the upcoming Peoria Heights Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours!

Thursday, May 6th at 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Heritage Square,   Hosted by the Lofts at Heritage Square.

Food, Fun & Networking…Be there!!

Congrats to Patti Smith!

Patti Smith will graduate from the Executive MBA program at Bradley University in May. Immediately after graduation, she will serve a summer internship at The White Commission on Remembrance in Washington D.C.

Komen Race for the Cure

Dear Friends,
 
Please join me in the fight against Breast Cancer by pledging in support of my participation in the Race for the Cure.  Your tax-deductible contribution will fund breast cancer research, innovative outreach, and awareness programs for the underserved in our community.

It is easier than ever to support this great cause - you can make a donation online by simply going to www.komenpeoria.org. and on the left side of the homepage click on "donate" then on the next page click donate to a participant and search by filling in my name and then make your donation.  If you would prefer, you can also send me your tax-deductible contribution written out to Komen Race for the Cure.  Any amount that you can give will help! I truly appreciate your support and will keep you posted on my progress.

Thank you so much for your time and support in the fight against breast cancer! Every step counts!

By the way, Mary Corrigan and I have a "bragging rights" bet on this and since I most likely won't win, it would help if  I could bring in some serious dollars for Komen...

 
 
Jeanne Buysee
4605 N University St
Peoria IL 61614
309-688-8855

Condolences to Member Shelly Hranka

Our condolences to member Shelly Hranka, whose mother in law passed away recently. You may send cards to:

Shelly Hranka
Pyramid Printing
4701 Edgewater Dr
Groveland, IL 61535-9571
Phone: (309) 387-2777

Ron’s Carpets Named to Illinois Top Business List for 2010

In recognition of the economic power of privately held businesses, DiversityBusiness.com, the nations’ leading business-to-business Internet site, recently named Ron’s Carpets of Peoria as one of the top 100 businesses in Illinois. 
This is the 10th annual listing of the Illinois top businesses by DiversityBusiness.com.

Ranging in revenue size from $1 million to over $202 million, the companies listed on the Top Business Lists represent the Nation’s top multicultural earners and challenge the long-held notion that a privately held business is small or insignificant. Winners are sought after by major corporations wishing to increase spending with small businesses.

“Entrepreneurs are a growing force in the U.S. economy, and a force to be reckoned with,” said Kenton Clarke, CEO of Computer Consulting Associates International, the company that built DiversityBusiness.com. This is a whole business segment that can carry its own, that provides jobs, products and services, and generates wealth for their communities.  These are the new leaders in American business.”

This is the 2nd consecutive year that Ron’s Carpets has been named to list of top 100 businesses in Illinois.

“We are honored to be included in this list of successful businesses,” said Carol Hayse, president of Ron’s Carpets.” We attribute our success to our commitment to meeting our customer’s needs and expectations.”

“As the demand for custom rugs, hardwood floors, and tile flooring has increased for new homes, we have increased our custom rug abilities to provide innovative & flexible rug solutions at economic prices.”

In addition, Ron’s Carpets has a number of carpets made from renewable sources, which appeals to the more environmentally conscious customers.


The List

This List is a classification that represents the top small businesses in the U.S., in sectors such as technology, manufacturing, food service and professional services. Large organizational buyers throughout the country that do business with multicultural, small and women-owned businesses use the list. The List is produced annually by DiversityBusiness.com, the nation's leading multicultural B2B Internet portal that links large organizational buyers to multicultural product and service suppliers.

The winning companies will be honored at a special awards ceremony at DiversityBusiness.com’s “10th Annual Multicultural Business Conference”, taking place April 27 -29 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center on the Potomac in National Harbor, Washington, D.C.

For the complete list of winning companies, please visit: www.diversitybusiness.com

About Ron’s Carpets

Ron’s Carpets, Inc., is a retail floor covering store providing quality products and service to the area for 17 years. The company has been certified with WBENC since September of 2007, and in 2008, led the volunteer floor covering team in the Extreme Makeover Home Edition project in Pekin, Illinois. Ron’s Carpets carries a complete line of products from the world’s leading manufacturers, featuring area rugs, carpeting, ceramic and porcelain, laminate flooring, vinyl and resilient flooring, and wood floors. Carol and her team offer design ideas, tips, and helpful resources while providing excellent customer service to ensure total satisfaction with their flooring projects. In 2009, Carol was named Member of the Year by the Central Illinois chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO).


About DiversityBusiness.com

Launched in 1999, DiversityBusiness, with over 46,000 members, is the largest organization of diversity owned businesses throughout the United States that provide goods and services to Fortune 1000 companies, government agencies, and colleges and universities. DiversityBusiness provides research and data collection services for diversity including the "Top 50 Organizations for Multicultural Business Opportunities", "Top 500 Diversity Owned Companies in America", and others. Its research has been recognized and published by Forbes Magazine, Business Week and thousands of other print and internet publications. The site has gained national recognition and has won numerous awards for its content and design. It is a leading provider of Supplier Diversity management tools and has the most widely distributed Diversity magazine in the United States. DiversityBusiness.com is produced by Computer Consulting Associates International Inc. (CCAii.com) of Southport, CT. Founded in 1980.

Congratulations to Our NAWBO BBB Torch Award Finalists!

The Better Business Bureau recently announced their finalists for the BBB Torch Award for business ethics. http://heartofillinois.bbb.org/article/bbb-congratulates-2010-nominees-18166

Congratulations to our NAWBO sisters!
Alpha & Omega Couriers, Springfield (Springfield chapter)
Calahan Solutions, Bloomington
Philippi-Hagenbuch, Peoria
Ron's Carpets, Peoria

Effective Networking Resources

Doris Symonds, NAWBO, is the keynote speaker for the Women's Council of Realtors on March 4, 2010 at Weaver Ridge Golf Club of Peoria. She will address the topic of Effective Networking Resources to Grow Your Business Today! See the attached file for details.

Download Information

Great Organizing Giveaway

Hello NAWBO Sisters!  I have not talked to many of you this past year and I hope to change that this next month.  Recovery from my surgery is going well and my doctor says I’m right on target.  (I met my doctor at a NAWBO event!)  Even better -- no cancer in the tumors! 

Anyway, I’m writing today to ask for your help and to tell you about a new project that I’m coordinating.  It is called the Great Organizing Giveaway™.  Anyone can go to www.AskTheExpertOrganizers.com and  sign up for this f’ree online event.  Participants will get access to receive an amazing number (currently over 130 items) of f’ree resources to help organize your office/business, your time, and your home. You don’t have to worry about these resources contributing to your existing clutter, as you can choose the ones that will help with your specific challenges, and most are in digital format, to be read, listened to, or printed out as needed. 

Please help me spread the word!  We want to reach 1,000s of people with this event and can only do that if we get help to tell people about it.

Ribbon Cutting for Wannabe's Upscale Resale

You are invited to join member Tracy Wann and Wannabe's Upscale Resale for a ribbon cutting on Friday, Feb. 5th at 10 am. The address is 3530 W. Willow Knolls Dr. in the Willow Station shopping plaza right next to Curves. It would be wonderful to see a few NAWBO members there, showing their support!

Condolences to Doris Symonds

We extend our condolences to Doris Symonds, whose mother died on Tuesday, January 5th. The funeral will be in South Dakota by the Kurk Funeral Home in Rapid City. You may send cards to:

Doris Symonds
5106 Newcastle
Peoria, IL 6l6l5

Operation Santa Exceeds Goal!

Patti Smith reports that Operation Santa recently completed its mission to send tens of thousands of homemade Christmas stockings to our deployed Armed Forces currently defending our freedom.

The goal was 35,000 stockings however we were able to send 42,400 stockings in all! Volunteers from across the country mailed in a total of 55,000 stockings. Operation Santa finished 22% over goal, two days early and on budget even during a down economy. Thanks to all for your support to send a slice of home to those serving overseas this holiday. Pictures and thank you notes from recipients can be viewed at www.operationsanta.info . While on the website, read up on how you can participate in Operation Santa 2010!

Paid Internship Opportunity for College Student

State Farm has a paid internship opportunity available. If you know someone who might be interested, you can download more information by clicking here - Download LD Internship Summer 2010 Job Opening

Member News

We would like to extend our condolences to Becky Woods, who recently lost her father.

Cards may be sent to:

Becky Woods
10808 N David Ct
Peoria, IL 61615-9484

Also, Doris Symonds asks for thoughts and prayers for her family. Her mother is terminally ill, and they have just enrolled her in a hospice program. Her address is:

Doris Symonds
5106 W Newcastle Dr
Peoria, IL  6l6l5

Congrats to Pat Hagenbuch!

Pat and LeRoy Hagenbuch announced the 40th anniversary of their company, Philippi-Hagenbuch, Inc. on November 4, 2009.  The business was started on that date by Phil Philippi (Pat's father) and LeRoy Hagenbuch (Pat's husband).  Pat has worked in the company since its beginning and still is involved with the business.

Doris Symonds Interviewed by CNN Money

Doris Symonds, NAWBO Membership Chair, was recently interviewed by a CNN Money writer. She was listed as a vital resource for small business start ups. As a NAWBO member, Doris is very proud to represent the organzation on a global level.  
 
Find out why Peoria ranks #5 among midsize metro areas as the best places to launch a business!  http://money.cnn.com/smallbusiness/best_places_launch/2009/snapshot/254.html

Stephanie LH Calahan Selected as Finalist for Prestigious "Most Innovative Organizer" Award

NAWBO Sisters -

I'm bursting at the seams with excitement and wanted to share with you.  The National Association of Professional Organizers-LA Announced the Finalists for their 2010 Awards and I am on the list!

 

Some glorious person (or people) nominated me for the "Most Innovative Organizer" award by NAPO-LA.  The Most Innovative Organizer award is given to the professional organizer who is blazing trails within the industry in terms of his or her business structure, website, products, or services.  I got the call earlier last week and was shocked because I did not even know that I had been nominated, much less make it to a finalist position.

 

The NAPO-LA Organizing Awards is like the Oscars for the Organizing World.  The Awards recognize the best in the professional organizing industry.  Professioal organizers who set the standard for home and business productivity will be acknowledged for their accomplishments, along with those products and services that help consumers and businesses organize anything and everything.  Recipients will receive their awards at the public gala celebration on January 30th, as National "Get Organized Month" comes to a close.  Huge Hollywood-style red carpet event right in the heart of Hollywood CA.

 

Then I went out and looked at the list of the other finalists and found that I'm affiliated with a number of them!

- Best Organizing Product Retailer - Stacks and Stacks -  have been an expert author for Stacks and Stacks' Clutter Control Freak Blog for the last two years.

- Best Office Organizing Product - NeatDesk™ by Neat® - have been on The Neat Company's consumer advisory panel since 2007.

- Most Helpful Organizing Technology - iPEP by Productive Environment Institute - have been a certified iPEP specialist since the technology was introduced.

- Best National Makeover Reality Television Program - Extreme Makeover – Home Edition(ABC) - Last October I participated with a number of NAWBO sisters on the strategy and implementation production/builder team for a local build. 

- Best Publication Featuring Organizational Information - Real Simple® Magazine - Real Simple has quoted me in several in stories.

- Most Valuable Educational Resource - National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (NSGCD) - very proud member.

Voting for the 5th Annual Los Angeles Organizing Awards opens on October 15 and closes December 15. Winners will be decided by popular public vote and will be announced at the Awards.  Vote here: https://web.memberclicks.com/mc/quickForm/viewForm.do?orgId=napola&formId=34041

 

A BIG THANK YOU to all of my NAWBO sisters that continue to encourage me as I grow my business.

 

NAWBO Sisters -

I'm bursting at the seams with excitement and wanted to share with you.  The National Association of Professional Organizers-LA Announced the Finalists for their 2010 Awards and I am on the list!

 

Some glorious person (or people) nominated me for the "Most Innovative Organizer" award by NAPO-LA.  The Most Innovative Organizer award is given to the professional organizer who is blazing trails within the industry in terms of his or her business structure, website, products, or services.  I got the call earlier last week and was shocked because I did not even know that I had been nominated, much less make it to a finalist position.

 

The NAPO-LA Organizing Awards is like the Oscars for the Organizing World.  The Awards recognize the best in the professional organizing industry.  Professioal organizers who set the standard for home and business productivity will be acknowledged for their accomplishments, along with those products and services that help consumers and businesses organize anything and everything.  Recipients will receive their awards at the public gala celebration on January 30th, as National "Get Organized Month" comes to a close.  Huge Hollywood-style red carpet event right in the heart of Hollywood CA.

 

Then I went out and looked at the list of the other finalists and found that I'm affiliated with a number of them!

- Best Organizing Product Retailer - Stacks and Stacks -  have been an expert author for Stacks and Stacks' Clutter Control Freak Blog for the last two years.

- Best Office Organizing Product - NeatDesk™ by Neat® - have been on The Neat Company's consumer advisory panel since 2007.

- Most Helpful Organizing Technology - iPEP by Productive Environment Institute - have been a certified iPEP specialist since the technology was introduced.

- Best National Makeover Reality Television Program - Extreme Makeover – Home Edition(ABC) - Last October I participated with a number of NAWBO sisters on the strategy and implementation production/builder team for a local build. 

- Best Publication Featuring Organizational Information - Real Simple® Magazine - Real Simple has quoted me in several in stories.

- Most Valuable Educational Resource - National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (NSGCD) - very proud member.

Voting for the 5th Annual Los Angeles Organizing Awards opens on October 15 and closes December 15. Winners will be decided by popular public vote and will be announced at the Awards.  Vote here: https://web.memberclicks.com/mc/quickForm/viewForm.do?orgId=napola&formId=34041

 

A BIG THANK YOU to all of my NAWBO sisters that continue to encourage me as I grow my business.

 

Invitation to "Introduce NAWBO to Bloomington"

"Ladies Night" at the Holistic Health Center

Becky Daily invites you all to a "Ladies Night" at the Holistic Health Center on Friday, Sept. 25th from 5:00 - 9:00 pm. She would love for you all to stop by if you can. Check out the this invite for more information.

She will be sharing Healing Touch information and offering a free taste of Vemma and Verve.

Mary Ardapple Receives ATHENA Award!

On September 10, 2009, 25 Women were honored for their community leadership at the annual "25 Women in Leadership" event.  This year another award was added to the program, the annual Athena Award given by the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce.  This prestigious award is given annually to a woman who shows outstanding achievement in her profession and not only excels in her chosen field, but is always working to better her community. 
 
The recipient this year was our very own Mary Ardapple, owner of Apple's Bakery.  Mary's Athena nomination touted her abilities to help individuals grow, her inherent belief that it is her responsibility to "give back" and her desire to make a difference in her community.  She has been called encouraging, inspiring, and a positive role model for women.
 
The award was established by the ATHENA Foundation.  It is a nationwide program to assist individuals and organizations with leadership opportunities for women. 

Congratulations Mary!

A+ Children's Academy Adds Staff, Celebrates 1st Anniversary

A+ Children's Academy is proud to announce the newest addition to our teaching staff, Lynn Taylor.  Lynn is an outstanding preschool teacher who received her Early Childhood Degree from Bradley University.

and...

A+ Children's Academy is proud to announce their first anniversary on Sept.17. 

Are you on Twitter? Join the NAWBO Twibe!

Hello NAWBO Sisters!

I was tweeting today with @karenmccormack who is a NAWBO sister in Denver.  We decided that it would be an awesome idea to have a NAWBO group on Twitter, so Karen took the initiative to start a Twibe (read “group”)  If you are on Twitter Visit http://twibes.com/NAWBO and start connecting with NAWBO sisters across the nation!

To your success!
Stephanie

Holistic Health Center Open House

Share the day with us!

Holistic Health Center
Open House
Sat. June 27th
10:00 am - 2:00 pm.

The Center is located at 4809 Sheridan Rd., Peoria, IL 61614

Come on by. Would love to see you!

Be sure to check out the Open House web page.

www.holistichealthcenterpeoria.com

Doris Symonds Promotes Biz Expo on WEEKTV

Doris Symonds, NAWBO Member, will be on Channel 25 WEEKTV on June 19 at 6:15 a.m.

Tune in to support her debut regarding the upcoming 200 Women in Business Networking Expo with Social Media Topic.  Tickets($35) to the event can be purchased by calling 309 224 9665.  Door $50.

Congratulations to Mary Pille!

The Employers’ Association (EA) is pleased to announce President Mary Pille’s induction into Beta Gamma Sigma, the international honor society serving business programs accredited by AACSB International - The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.  Membership in Beta Gamma Sigma is the highest recognition a business student anywhere in the world can receive in a business program accredited by AACSB International.  Pille earned an Executive MBA from Bradley University in December and also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Fashion Merchandising and Business Administration from Illinois State University.

Pille joined EA in 1993 and has served as the president and CEO of the Association since 2004. She is a Certified Association Executive, a Senior Professional of Human Resources and a graduate of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership School. She is the chair of the national Employer Associations of America group.  She is a member and a past board member of the Illinois Society of Association Executives and a member of the American Society of Association Executives and the Heart of Illinois Human Resource Council.  She is a trustee for Proctor Hospital, a former board member of the Peoria Area Economic Development Council, a member of the Rotary Club of Peoria and chairs the Vocational Services Committee, and is involved in many other civic and community activities.

Congrats, Mary!

Congrats to Joy Duling!

Congratulations to memberJoy Duling, who was interviewed by National City's quartlery magainze for women business owners, "Insights." Read the article here!

European Delegates Meet with Citizen SAM

Executive Director Patti Smith (our newest NAWBO-CIL member!) recently met with six European delegates to share the mission of Citizen SAM. These visitors were invited to the United States under the auspices of the Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program. The meeting took place at the Visitor's Convention Bureau in Springfield, Illinois.
 
The goals of the project are:

• To expose participants to U.S. security and defense policy-making and perspectives.

• To examine specific security issues, such as energy security, regional conflicts. Weapons proliferation, homeland security issues, and the response to international terrorism.

• To discuss European security architecture, including evolving roles of NATO, the European Union, the United Nations and other international organizations in dealing with global crises.

• To explore implications for partnership in U.S. and European security policy worldwide.

Countries and participants were: 

From Estonia,  Ms. Anneli POOLAKESE, Desk Officer, Counter Terrorism, Cyber Security, EU-NATO Relations Ministry of Foreign Affairs
            
From Lithuania, Mr. Bartas TRAKYMAS, Coordinator, Afghanistan Affairs, Ministry of National Defense
 
From Montenegro, Mr. Mladen DRAGASEVIC, Head, Building Human Capital and Cross-Cutting Issues Unit, Regional Cooperation Council
 
From Portugal, Mr. Jose Carlos DE ALMEIDA SOBREIRA, Chief of Foreign Liaison Office, Office of the G2, Army Staff
 
From Slovenia, Mr. Klemen GROSELJ, Research Assistant, Faculty of Social Sciences

From the United Kingdom, Ms. Emily Grace McKEOWN, Head, International Terrorism Team, Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ)
 
Accompanied by Mr. Wojciech Streme, English Language Officer (Springfield, Illinois segment only)
 
Each delegate was given a comprehensive report to take back to their country and presented with an Operation Santa t-shirt. It was an honor to represent each of you and tell of your undying patriotism and support of our Armed Forces locally and globally!

Encore 2009 with the Morton Civic Chorus

It's that time of year again! Beth Houlihan of Kidder Music will be performing in Encore 2009 with the Morton Civic Chorus.  The show runs from May 19-24 at the Hartmann Center on the Bradley University campus.  All proceeds benefit the Central Illinois Memorial Kidney Fund (CIMKF).  It is our director, Denise Adams', 25th year directing the show, so it will be extra special, and we want to raise a ton of money for CIMKF!  For more more information, you can visit www.cimkf.org/mcc.

Kidder Music Seeking Part-time Customer Service Employee

Kidder Music in Peoria is seeking a part-time employee for a customer service position. Previous experience in retail or customer relations is required. Musical experience is extremely helpful, but not necessarily required. If you know of anyone looking, please contact Beth Houlihan at (309) 692-4040. Resumes can be emailed to beth@kiddermusic.com.

Free Teleseminars from Joy Duling & the Midwest Business Academy

The Midwest Business Academy is a strategic alliance, launched by business coaches and advisors who are committed to the advancement of small business and entrepreneurship across America's Heartland and beyond.

For individuals who are thinking about starting, owning or growing a small business, MBA is the authoritative source on what works.  Our philosophy leans heavily toward harnessing the power of the Internet as the venue through which true entrepreneurial freedom will come.

You can join the MBA for FREE and participate on a number of business-building seminars. In fact, there's one TODAY at 10 am!

In "Direct Marketing for All Businesses" Tim Piccirillo will discuss the 3 main components of direct marketing while justifying why ALL businesses should use this form of marketing. The difference between this specialized form as opposed to traditional marketing is the fact that it is highly targeted toward identifying and marketing to a businesses ideal prospect. Register here!

If you can't make it today, be sure to check out these upcoming events:

"Fearless Start-up" with Joy on May 1, 2009 at 12 Noon. Joy talks about business related start-up issues and answers questions from participants. Register here.

"Speak Now & Forever Get New Clients" with Elizabeth Hagen on May 7 at 12 Noon. Speaking is your best marketing tool - learn how to overcome your fears and develop and deliver a great presentation showcasing your business. Register here.

"Unlocking the Secrets of LinkedIn" with Chip Lambert on May 22 at 3pm. Millions of professionals are on LinkedIn, but only a select few are powerfully deploying it to get EXACTLY the kinds of clients they desire. LinkedIn can be an extraordinarily powerful part of your overall sales and marketing strategy, but you have to know how to use it.  Register here.

A+ Children's Academy Hosts District 150 Teacher's Institute

District 150 chose A+ Children’s Academy for their training site on Institute Day for their para-professionals.  Friday March 20th owner Michelle Didesch held an Early Childhood Conference and tour of her new preschool.  The conference focused on early childhood brain development, benefits of sign language with infants and toddlers and documenting preschooler’s development for kindergarten readiness.

 “To encourage early brain development we use the Reggio Emilia Approach here at A+ Children’s Academy which promotes a love for investigation and brings learning to life. We believe children’s learning potential is infinite!” said Michelle. “As the children are investigating topics of interest, they still get the basics.   Besides our 3 tiered language / literacy program, this way of teaching promotes higher level thinking and naturally lends itself to integrating science, math and language/literacy concepts in the most meaningful way possible for children.  In this way, they are more than kindergarten ready when they graduate from our Academy.”

A+ Children’s Academy is a new early childhood school located in north Peoria, close to Dunlap.  They teach infants thru preschool age children in a new 9,000 square foot facility.  The Academy is located at 6431 North Big Hollow Road and is situated on over two acres.  The expansive park like setting has allowed for a very generous sized exercise and play area for the children.

Michelle Didesch and Nancy Weichmann are joined NAWBO-CIL in January. Congratulations!

Building Available for Lease in Peoria

Fidelity On Call has bought a building and will be moving - probably by June. Our facility at 1711 W Detweiller in Peoria will be available for rent, and we are trying to help our landlord "get the word out".  We are in a very nice building with a reasonable lease rate that has served us well.  The building is 3312 sf and has a garage attached at the back which we use for additional storage.  There are at least 8 offices, a conference area, kitchen, main entry, etc.  The parking lot can easily handle 20 cars.  
 
If you know anyone who might be interested in re-locating, please forward this information to them.
 
Thanks for your help.
 
Pat Drake
Fidelity On Call
309.691.1500
800.836.763

Symonds To Be Featured As Keynote Speaker

Congratulations to Doris Symonds! She is the keynote speaker for the Tri-County Chapter of the Illinois Association of Administrative Professionals. She will be presenting "Ten Tips for a Successful Interview." The event is on April 7, 2009 at the Peoria Civic Center, Room 135/136. If you're interested in more information, click here.

A+ Believes Children Are Never to Young to Reach for the Stars!!!

At A+ Children’s Academy, one of their fundamental beliefs is that children must be seen as capable individuals with tremendous potential.  Michelle says “The Reggio Emilia Approach promotes a love for investigation and brings learning to life. At A+ Children’s Academy our curriculum promotes creativity through the visual arts, literacy skills, science, math, socialization and hands on learning. As your child investigates an interesting topic in smaller groups they will be problem solving, journaling, and exploring the world around them”.

This is why as the children investigated the properties of light, it naturally turned into an investigation of the constellations and then the solar system!!  A+ Children’s Academy children will be taking a field trip to Lakeview museum’s planetarium this Thursday, March 6th, to continue their observations and investigations.

Sharon Mindock Named Social Service Provider of the Year

Sharon Mindock, Director of Mindock Counseling and Consulting, was recently honored at the Mental Health Association of Illinois Valley's awards of excellence banquet.  Ms. Mindock was named the social service provider of the year for her extensive work in the Peoria area for the past 17 years.  Some of her work includes:   working in schools, agencies, and businesses providing consultation and counseling services.  Ms. Mindock was instrumental in developing the Joining Forces for Children mental health collaboration and currently works with Peoria Public Schools as the grant administrator for a mental health, substance abuse and violence prevention project.

Congratulations Sharon!

Diana Hall Attends "Transition Academy"

Diana Hall, President of Bard Optical and four additional members of their management team recently attended the Transition Academy at Disney in Orlando, Florida.

The Academy brought attendees from all over the world for extensive leadership training, customer service training and information on planned future Transition product announcements.

Bard Optical, one of the “Top 50 Optical Retailers in the Country” by a national optometric publication, is a full-service vision care organization with 17 retail locations throughout Central and Southern Illinois. The home office, central laboratory, and distribution center are located in Peoria.

Ron’s Carpets of Peoria Named One of the Top 100 Businesses in Illinois

Congratulations to Carol Hayse, owner of Ron's Carpets in Peoria. Her business has been named one of the top 100 businesses in Illinois by DiversityBusiness.com, the nations’ leading business-to-business internet site. Ranging in revenue size from $1 million to over $202 million, the companies listed on the Top Business Lists represent the Nation’s top multicultural earners and challenge the long-held notion that a privately held business is small or insignificant. Winners are sought after by major corporations wishing to increase spending with small businesses.

Read about her award and her business here.

Members Contribute to Midwestern Family Magazine Article

Congratulations to members Joy Duling, Alice Anthony, and Andrea Flairty! Joy authored an article in the January/February issue of Midwestern Family Magazine entitled, "Profiles in Entrepreneurship: Central Illinois Women Balance Business and Motherhood." The article features Alice as owner of Aleece's Pita Chips, and Andrea as owner of Storage Options & Solutions, Inc. It also features Springfield mom and business owner Kim Little. The NAWBO-CIL organization gets a nice mention as well!

For a little entrepreneurial inspiration, be sure to go out and get a copy of the magazine to read the article!

Sharon Mindock Named to Children's Hospital of Illinois Board

Congratulations to member Sharon Mindock for being named a board member for Children's Hospital of Illinois. She will serve for two years and chair the Advocacy Committee.  She has served as the subcommittee chair of the school safety committee for the past four years.  Children's Hospital was recently named the best in the world for the neonatal unit. Nice work, Sharon!