NAWBO® Central Illinois - The PULSE

Congratulations to Doris Symonds - 2011 NAWBO Champion of the Year!!

NAWBO-CIL Member Doris Symonds of “Talk to Doris Now” will receive the 2011 Women in Business Champion of the Year Award. She will be honored along with other NAWBO award winners at the 2011 Small Business Week Awards Reception to be held on June 22nd of this year. This event will be sponsored by the SBA in partnership with SCORE: Counselors to America’s Small Business, and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Small Business Development Center network.

Congratulations Doris! What an awesome accomplishment!!

Read the letter here.

George Washington Banquet Seats Still Available!

Limited seating is still available for the 113th George Washington Banquet, which is on Wednesday, March 9th at the Hotel Pere Marquette. Shelly Hranka has 4 seats left at the NAWBO-CIL table. The cost for members is only $100. If you are interested, please contact Shelly before Friday, February 25.

NAWBO Survey Request

Brian Nagy, Bradley University faculty and speaker at one of our fall meetings, is requesting our assistance to help him understand factors that lead to an entrepreneur’s successful attempt to gain legitimacy and scarce resources during the nascent stage of firm development.

The specific requirements involved include about fifteen (15) to twenty (20) minutes of your time. The activity is painless, and it will result in very little to no discomfort and stress. Arguably, the exercise is actually somewhat enjoyable. If you choose to volunteer to help us, Brian asks that you do a few things.

The first is to very carefully read over an entrepreneur’s biographical information. This task should take about five minutes. Next, watch a video recording of the entrepreneur, David Noble, as he describes his ideas related to his nascent venture. The video is very short. It is two to three minutes in length. Following the video, please complete a web-based questionnaire related to the entrepreneur and his prospective new venture.

Again, your participation is completely voluntary and your responses are completely confidential.
If you have questions that you would like to ask in private, Brian’s Bradley University office telephone number is 309-677-2314. Please feel free to use that number to ask anything about this exercise.

The website where you can view David’s information and answer our survey questions is:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=ZpPs38WPgGf2_2fKygc1d9Hg_3d_3d

Thanks.
Wendi Ramsay

See NAWBO Represented on Television

On February 9th, Dina Emser and Doris Symonds will appear on TV Channel 25 at Noon to represent NAWBO and promote the Membership Drive. Be sure to tune in!


Thank You

Becky Dailey sent a thank you card to NAWBO to thank all of the members for their prayers on the lost of her mom.

NAWBO Membership Guide 2010-2011

The new 2010-2011 NAWBO-CIL Membership Directory is now available as a pdf. Click here to download.

The Membership Directory is also available at www.nawbopulse.com in the middle column under "About Our Members."

February NAWBO Meeting is February 16, 2011

Our February meeting will be Wednesday, February 16, 2011, at Mt. Hawley Country Club in Peoria. Your reservations are due by Monday, February 14.

This month is Membership Month, so we will be recognizing new NAWBO members. Ms. Dina Emser will be our Guest Speaker. Download Meeting Flyer

Times and Agenda
4:30 pm – Create Your Business Roadmap Using the Top 10 Tips the Pros Know – Session I, by Ms. Dina Emser
5:30 pm - Social and Networking Time
6:00 pm – Dinner
6:15 pm – Welcome and Announcements
Evening program – Membership recognition, led by Doris Symonds; Session II  Speaker’s Recap, led by Dina Emser

About the Presentation:
Do you ever feel like you’re floundering in your business, creating things over and over, and spinning your wheels? In this session, Business Coach and Author, Dina Emser, will show you the Top 10 Tips that her clients use to maintain strength in their businesses. Each participant in Dina’s education session will receive a complimentary copy of her book, Roadmap to Success, written with authors Stephen Covey and Ken Blanchard. (Extra copies of the book will be available for purchase – they make great gifts!) Come prepared to rethink some of your business practices and learn new ideas for keeping your operations both organized and fresh.

Please respond as soon as possible by replying to this message or sending your response to secretary@nawbo-cil.org. Please make sure you receive a reply back to confirm that we've received your e-mail.

For your convenience, you can now pay for your meal online! Just go to http://www.nawbo-cil.org/store.php.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – MEMBERS - $30, GUESTS - $35
RSVP – by Monday, February 14, Noon

Reservations made but not kept will be billed accordingly.

Door Prize: Everyone is invited to bring a door prize this month.

Make check payable to: NAWBO
Click to: secretary@nawbo-cil.org
Mail to: PO Box 10072, Peoria, IL 61612
Call: 309-692-2225

NAWBO-CIL / Pathways Survey

For the last 10+ years NAWBO, and, recently in conjunction with Women in Leadership, has hosted the Pathways to Success conference. The event was not held in 2010.

Please take a few moments to answer 7 questions about the conference. Your response will help us determine the future of this event.

Click here to take the survey - http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/M7MNW25

The survey deadline is Monday, January 31, 2011, so please consider answering our questions today!

If you have any questions, please contact Wendi Ramsay at 309-692-4016. Thanks.

Thanks to Jennifer Robin, PHD & Book Signing

Our January speaker, Jennifer Robin, has left her contact information for anyone who would like to keep in touch with her:

Email: jrobin@bradley.edu
Phone: 415-572-6286
Twitter: @jenrobinideas
Websites:

• The Great Workplace Book: www.thegreatworkplaceonline.com
• My Blog: www.jenniferrobin.net
• My Co-author’s Site: www.michaelburchell.com

Books and Articles:

• Burchell, M., & Robin, J. (2011).  The Great Workplace: How to Build It, How to Keep It, and Why It Matters.  Jossey Bass.Sartain, L. & Schumann, M. (2006).  Brand from the Inside: Eight Essentials to Emotionally Connect Your Employees to Your Business.  Jossey Bass.
• Stybel, L, & Peabody, M. (2005).  Friend, Foe, Ally, Adversary … or Something Else?  Sloan Management Review.  http://sloanreview.mit.edu/the-magazine/articles/2005/summer/46404/friend-foe-ally-adversary-or-something-else/?type=x&reprint=46404

In addition, Jennifer's book, The Great Workplace: How to Build It, How to Keep It, and Why It Matters has been released! (http://amzn.com/0470596260) And now, time to celebrate!

Please join Jennifer at Seven on Prospect on Tuesday, January 25 for wine, appetizers, good conversation, and good cheer.  Seven is located in Peoria Heights (www.7onprospect.com).   We’ll be there from 5:00-7:00, so stop by whenever you can.

Of course, She'll be happy to sign books too. We'll have copies for sale, or you can bring your own! I look forward to celebrating with you!

WEEK-TV Women in Business

WEEK 25 is looking for Women owned Business for the new show "Women in Business".  The 30-minute show will feature 6 women owned businesses.  Additional advertising opportunities exist.  Detail are on the flyer - Click here to download!

Dress for Success

"A Decade of Success" Awards and Recognition Brunch for Dress for Success Peoria is being held Sunday, January 30, 2011 from 12 PM - 2PM at the Hotel Pere Marquette.

Tickets are $50 or $400 for a table.  Contact Laura Clark, Program Director, 309-671-5200.

Also, you can review the Sponsorship information here - Download Sponsorship Packet. Go to www.dressforsuccess.org/peoria to register.

Consumers Can Step Up for Small Business with First Annual "Small Business Saturday"

90% of Consumers Are Willing to Pledge Support For a "Buy Local" Small Business Movement

First came Black Friday, then came Cyber Monday, and now comes "Small Business Saturday SM". Consumers can step up for small business with the first annual "Small Business Saturday", which will launch during the most critical time of year for small retailers: the heart of the holiday shopping season, Saturday, November 27th. Small Business Saturday is a national effort to help small businesses do more business. While Black Friday and Cyber Monday drive sales to national chains and online retailers, this initiative recognizes the importance of small business to the overall economy and local communities. In fact, for every $100 spent in locally-owned independent stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. And according to the U.S. Small Business Administration, an estimated 27.5 million small businesses operated in the United States in 2009 and they created 65 percent of net new jobs.

Available for interviews, Cinda Baxter, Retail Expert, will talk about "Small Business Saturday" and why shopping at small businesses is critical to the health and vitality of the U.S. economy and the local communities where we live and work. Cinda's objective is to raise consumer consciousness about where they spend their money and put small business owners "front of mind" as a means to jumpstarting demand for small business products and services. Cinda founded The 3/50 Project, a "buy local" initiative that asks consumers to pick three businesses they can't live without and spend $50 per month with them. The goal is to drive revenue back to independent brick and mortar businesses. Find out how to support the small businesses you love and help keep your own city vibrant.

Talent/Guest: Cinda Baxter, Retail Expert
Noted for forward thinking, creative approaches, best practices, and a straight-shooter ability to "cut through the crud," Cinda Baxter is bringing positive change to the retail community. Through professional consulting, international speaking, and editorial contributions to leading industry publications, she delivers results-oriented advice combining modern day methods with first hand experience. As someone who's worn the shoes of a national award-winning retailer, Cinda understands small business from the ground up. As a consultant, coach, speaker, and writer, she offers her expertise in support of not just one company, but many. Cinda's 3/50 Project has been featured in both trade and mass media, including the Wall Street Journal, CNN, Entrepreneur and the Chicago Tribune.

Topics Cinda Baxter can discuss:
- How consumers can step up for small business and the first annual "Small Business Saturday"
- Why consumers should care about small businesses and their impact on the overall economy and their local communities
- How consumers can participate in The 3/50 Project
- How consumers can support the small businesses they love and help keep their own city vibrant
- For more information:www.smallbusinesssaturday.com

This interview is produced for: American Express OPEN

YWCA Soup for the Shelter

Central Illinois chefs are serving up soup to support the YWCA, the largest provider of homeless services in our community! Sip some soup, help the homless.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010
4:30-8:00 p.m.

Rhythm Kitchen
305 SW Water Street, Peoria

Tickets / 309-685-7655
Pre-Sale: $20 / At Door: $25

Also available: Cash bar, handpainted bowls ($15) and silent auction items.

Click the link to download the a printable flyer. Download now

November Monthly Meeting - New Location!

The November monthly meeting is Wednesday, November 17. Please RSVP by Monday, November 15 to secretary@nawbo-cil.org.

Our theme is "The Comforts of Health and Home for the Holidays" and the presentations will be given by Mary Ardapple of Apple’s Bakery  and  Yvonne Greer of Power Zone.
 
Please note the different location for this month! We'll be at Apple's Bakery, 8412 N Knoxville Ave, Peoria. The phone number there is 309-693-3522.

Here's the schedule:

4:30 Choose your comfort!

• Frost cupcakes
• Shape and Bake bread
• Learn home exercise tips (fitness q/a)

5:15 Networking

Wine, Beer, and soda
Assorted appetizer selection

6:00 Soup and Bread Dinner

Dinner will be a buffet self serve style meal of:
Selection of 3 soups:  1. meat  2. vegetarian 3. creamed
Assorted breads that will have been baked at the 4:30 session
Desserts:  Cupcakes decorated at the 4:30 session

7:00 Holiday Fitness Strategies

Think

• Decide who you’re going to be before you decide what to do.
• Recognize your body’s uniqueness and honor it.
• Expect success and enjoy the many ways it is revealed to you.

Move

• Yes, get some exercise… you know it’s good for you.
• Rest is good for you too.
• If neither exercise or rest seems appropriate, just breathe.

Eat

• Have a healthy snack before the holiday party to curb hunger and reduce temptation.
• Have a glass of water after every alcoholic beverage.
• Give yourself permission to indulge, just choose indulgences in advance.

Additionally, the evening will be a collection evening for Dress for Success.

All attendees are encouraged to bring a special holiday recipe which will be cataloged on our website for members to download as a Holiday Gift  for our home kitchens.

Attire is casual. This event is intended for members and guests to come laugh and relax before the rush of the Holiday season is upon us.

MBE Outreach Meeting Scheduled

Peoria County would like to encourage involvement of minority-owned businesses (MBE) in the Peoria Riverfront Museum project. Therefore, we are sponsoring an informational outreach meeting on Monday, November 8 at 10:00 a.m. at Lakeview Museum, at 1125 W. Lake Ave. in Peoria. The meeting will be conducted by Absolute Risk Management Strategies (ARMS). While open to all interested business owners, this meeting offers minority, women, and disadvantaged business owners in particular an opportunity to learn more about the museum project and brainstorm creative ways to participate in the museum's development.

For more information, please call Kelly Peterson, Chairman & CEO of ARMS, at (309) 676-ARMS.

Your Invited to "From Day to Dazzle"

 

The Purple Team Recruits New Members

The heat is on! The Purple Team has recruited three (3) new members: Jannish Bush, Nancy Churchill, and Kate White.

Welcome New Members!

This Purple Team photo was taken at the October 2010 monthly meeting.  Shown are NAWBO members and guests.

Business Networking Conference Scheduled for December 9th

The Business Networking Conference is packed with solid, relevant and current information for women business owners.  Come and obtain information from Wendi Ramsay, a competent and knowledgeable EA and CPA on the New Jobs Act of 2010.  Learn about the $30 billion in lending capital and $12 billion in tax credits that may help your company's success today!
 
DO YOU HAVE A NEED For:

• Business Tax Credits
• Business Tax Deductions
• New Tax Laws/Tax Savings
• Speed Networking
• New Contacts for 2011
• Fine Hors d’oeuvres
• Music/Wine Bar/Gifts

Then attend the December 9th, Business Networking Conference, held at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in East Peoria:  Cost $65 or $45.  Register now to reserved your seat.  309 224 9665 or email Doris Symonds, dsymo92699@aol.com.   Request registration form!

For more information, download Dec 9 Final Flyer Tax Tips

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

October NAWBO-CIL Meeting Information

Our October meeting for NAWBO-CIL is Wednesday, October 20, 2010. Your RSVPs are due Monday, October 18, by Noon!

October is an exciting and busy month for NAWBO.  We will be kicking off our membership campaign, "Ask me about NAWBO".  Search your rolodex for potential members and invite them to the October and future meetings.  Remember there's buckos, dineros, $dollars$ in it for the members that recruits the most "joined" new members. 
 
We've invited the members of Women in Leadership (WIL) to join our October meeting.  In the absences of Pathways to Success, what a better way to renew friendships with the WIL membership.
 
Our 4:30 PM program features, Cindy Fleming of VisionShift, Inc.  Her topic is "Finding the Perfect Client".  We can all use one or two of those, so plan on attending to learn how to attract a perfect client.
 
Our dinner program will feature Cindy speaking on "Infinite Success - Getting It, Keeping It".  
 
To keep the program jammed packed, we even have a few candidates coming.  Their campaigns are gearing up for the final push and the candidates what to hear what we think and to share what they want to accomplish.
 
Whether you’re interested in the education, socializing or just want to hang out with a fabulous group of dynamic women,  plan on attending.

LOCATION
This month’s meeting is at Mt. Hawley Country Club, 7724 N Knoxville Avenue in Peoria.
(Click here for a map.)
TIMES AND AGENDA
Education Hour - 4:30 to 5:30
• Cindy Fleming of VisionShift, Inc. on "Finding the Perfect Client"
 
Dinner Program – dinner served at 6:00 pm, program starts at 7:00 pm
• Infinite Success - Getting It, Keeping It" by Cindy Fleming

PAYMENT
Members - $30, Guests - $35
You can pay for your meal at the door or by mailing a check. Make check payable to: NAWBO
For your convenience, you can also pay for your meal online! Just go to http://nawbo-cil.org/payment.htm.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – Due Monday, October 18th by Noon
Please respond as soon as possible by replying to this message or sending your response to secretary@nawbo-cil.org. Please make sure you receive a reply back to confirm that we've received your e-mail. You can also check the attendance list at http://www.nawbopulse.com/the_pulse/see-who-is-attending.html. It’s a great place to verify that we’ve received your RSVP or cancellation! Reservations made but not kept will be billed accordingly.

Door Prize: Remember, if it’s your birthday, please bring a door prize.

Ameran's Act On Energy Business Program

The Act On Energy business program is announcing the first ramp-down of the 15% bonus that is offered on top of the current incentive for the replacement of T12 lamps. The 15% bonus for T12 replacement will remain in effect for all eligible applications submitted through December 31, 2010.  After that date, the bonus incentive amount will be reduced to 10%.  Therefore, you have just over three months to submit an application to guarantee the best incentive Act On Energy will EVER offer for replacing their T12 lamps.

It’s important to understand that the project does not have to be approved or completed by December 31, 2010 to be eligible for the current 15% bonus the application just needs to be submitted before January 1, 2011 and the project completed within 90 days of your pre-approval date.  Your should also understand how we have designed the program; it’s intended to provide the best incentives for replacing T12 lamps if they act now!  As we move closer to July 2012 (the date when T12 production will be phased-out), the bonus incentive amount will only decrease.  Once an incentive or bonus is reduced, the new bonus amount becomes a “ceiling” for the incentive amount, meaning the bonus will never be higher than the current offer.  Customers can have the confidence the incentive and bonus amount their project has been approved for will be the best incentive they can get for the remainder of the T12 program.

With the incentives decreasing in the near future and the inherent cost of waiting by delaying replacement of antiquated equipment, it’s in your best financial interest to submit their applications now.

Below is a flyer that explains the T12 Program along with how to identify these bulbs in your facility.  If you would like a pdf version of this insert, or have questions contact me at gbrigham@ameren.com.

 
 

Enterprising Women of the Year Award

Dear Friends:

Please mark your calendars for March 10-11, 2011 for the 9th Annual Enterprising Women of the Year Awards at the Boca Raton Resort in Boca Raton, Florida!

Nominations for the Enterprising Women of the Year Award are now officially open on the magazine's Web site at www.enterprisingwomen.com. Entries must be submitted by midnight on November 15, 2010.

You may apply for the award if you have been in business at least three years and you meet any of the following criteria:

• your company is at least 51 percent owned and managed by a woman;
• you are a woman who owns, manages and controls the business with a partner, and you own at least 33 percent of the business; or
• you are a woman entrepreneur who leads a company that has obtained venture capital and, as a result, you now hold an equity position of less than 51 percent in your company.

Winners will be recognized in the following categories:

* woman-owned enterprise with up to $1 million in annual revenues;
* woman-owned enterprise with more than $1 million and up to $5 million in annual revenues;
* woman-owned enterprise with more than $5 million and up to $10 million in annual revenues;
* woman-owned enterprise with more than $10 million and up to $25 million in annual revenues; and
* woman-owned enterprise with more than $25 million in annual revenues.

Award winners will be recognized at a gala awards dinner in Boca Raton on March 11. Winners also receive national recognition for themselves and their businesses through local, regional and national publicity. Every winner will be profiled in Enterprising Women magazine, and the top winners will appear on the magazine's front cover in the spring of 2011.

"The Enterprising Women of the Year Award is one of the world's most prestigious honors for a woman entrepreneur. We are looking for dynamic nominees who have built strong businesses, shown leadership in their communities, and understand the importance of giving back to mentor and support other women in business. This event is all about shining the spotlight on the top women entrepreneurs in the world," Monica Smiley, Publisher/CEO of Enterprising Women, said.

For more information, call 919-674-6640 or visit www.enterprisingwomen.com.

NAWBO Confirms New Board

Click to open the press release about the new board members and their goals for 2010-2011.

Press Release_NAWBO Confirms New Board

Presentation Slides from the September Meeting

The PowerPoint presentation from the September meeting are available by clicking on the following links:

Download Nagy presentation 1

Download Nagy presentation #2

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.

###

Peoria Symphony Orchestra Performs with "The Beatles"!

On September the 24th at 7:00PM at O'Brien Field, the Peoria Symphony Orchestra will be performing with a tribute band that looks and sounds just like the Beatles. Tickets are $30 and $40 each. Sharon Law is buying a block of tickets, so the cost will only be $20 each. If any member of NAWBO would like to attend, please let Sharon know, and she will make sure to get enough tickets.

Sharon's Contact Information:
Phone: 309.683.2363, ext. 52363
E-mail: Sharon.Law@busey.com

NAWBO Membership Special!

If you know anyone who is interested in NAWBO-CIL, now is the perfect time to invite them to join! NAWBO is running a special for new members ho join between October 1st and November 30th. During this 2 month Fall Membership Drive, new members will receive $25 off National dues. Be sure to let your friends, business contacts, and colleagues know about this great deal. It wont' last long! Effective January 2011, dues will increase $50.

New members can join by clicking here >>

Effective Communication in the Modern Workplace

 

Print a copy by clicking here!

Lt. Gov candidate courts women business owners

We'd like to share this link to a news story about Sheila Simon, a candidate for Lt. Governor.

http://www.centralillinoisnewscenter.com/news/local/Lt-Gov-candidate-courts-woman-business-owners-99491139.html?vid=a

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

Women in Economic Development Forum

Women in Economic Development Forum
Connecting Women Economic Developers for Greater Professional Success
October 24 - 26, 2010
The Sofitel Water Tower Hotel | Chicago, IL

Join us this fall for the first Women in Economic Development Forum organized by The Consultants Forum. This Conference is an acknowledgment of the growing importance of the role of women in the industry, and is intended to encourage and inspire both professional and personal growth. This one-of-a-kind program is designed to allow you to interact with some of the most influential women currently working in the industry.

The Consultants Forum series has built a reputation as a no-nonsense, insightful event where you'll meet and learn from the best minds in site consulting, corporate real estate and economic development. This reputation also includes distinctive venues to match the quality of the program.

In addition to offering valuable networking opportunities, the program will include sessions on:

• Changing Times: Coping During This Period of Economic Uncertainty
• Site Selection Trends - A Vision for the Future
• The Ladder: What is Required to Move Up in Economic Development
• Best Practices for Successful Negotiations & Client Relationships
• Transformational Leadership: What Successful Leaders Know and Do
• Mentoring: Value in a Professional Network
• FDI: When Cultural Differences Impact Women in Economic Development
• Q&A: Everything You Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask

Invited Speakers include:
(as of August 3)

Christine Bustamante
Tax, Managing Director, KPMG

Kathy Mussio
Managing Partner, Atlas Insight, LLC

Rebecca Truelove
Partner, Ernst & Young

Maureen Ehrenberg
Executive Managing Director
CB Richard Ellis, Global Corporate Services

Tracy Bosman
Director, Grubb & Ellis Company

Jeanette Goldsmith
Principal, McCallum Sweeney

Ros Taylor
CEO, Ros Taylor Group, UK

Deborah Gillis
VP North America, Catalyst

Gail Edgar
VP Corporate Facilities Services, W.W. Grainger, Inc

Martha O'Mara
Managing Director, Corporate Portfolio Analytics

Forum Schedule

Sunday, October 24th
- Registration
- Networking Reception
- Networking Dinner

Monday, October 25th
- Networking Breakfast
- Morning Sessions
- Keynote Luncheon
- Afternoon Sessions
- Roundtable Sessions
- Networking Reception
- Dinner On The Town

Tuesday, October 26th
- Networking Breakfast
- Morning Sessions
- Roundtable Sessions
- Q&A Session
- Networking Luncheon

To reserve your seat and conference rate ($195) hotel accommodation please click here or go to http://www.areadevelopment.com/consultantsforum/women2010_register.html.

For more information or sponsorship opportunities please contact:
Annie Gregson at 212-579-4469 or annie@areadevelopment.com

Please forward to anyone you know who may be interested in attending this event.

New Leadership Team

As of July 1st, here is your new NAWBO-CIL Leadership Team:

President
Wendi Olson Ramsay - Ramsay & Associates
weor0716@msn.com
847-989-8737

President Elect
Cindy Fleming - VisonShift, Inc.
cynthialfleming@gmail.com
309-648-4969

Past President
Mary Ardapple - Apple's Bakery
apples@mtco.com
309.693.3522

Member Services
Doris Symonds - T.A.L.K Teaching & Learning for Knowledge
dsymo92699@aol.com
309-224-9665

Corporate & Economic Development
Penny Kramer - Kramer Chiropractic
drkramer298@sbcglobal.net
309-693-9600

Public Policy
Lynne Johnson - Lynneterprises
lynneann939@cs.com
309-453-0806

Secretary
Becky Wood - The Service Station Advertising Agency
bwood@servicestationadv.com
309-689-3155

Treasurer
Shelly Hranka - Pyramid Printing, Inc.
shelly@pyramidprintinginc.com
309-648-4969

Public Relations
Lindsay Brown - Lindsay Brown Communications
info@lindsay.net
866-699-1791

A Message from Membership Chair Doris Symonds

Dear NAWBO Members:

I echo the same words as Kelly Scanlon, the new national chair of NAWBO:

“My involvement with NAWBO has been one of the most fulfilling things I’ve experienced other than being a parent and running my own business.”

When I was installed as the 2010/2011 Membership Chair of the Board of  Directors last month, I am honored to be a part of a wonderful group of  business women.   I believe that much work still lies ahead of us today, and hope that in another 2 years, women business owners are as proud of the work this Board will have accomplished.

As we continue to move forward, our public policy impact is more important than ever, but so is helping our members with capacity building, diversifying our membership to new audiences and reaching out for sponsorships that will help our members’ businesses succeed. The journey continues and we all must lead the charge. I look forward to working with you all in the coming months.

—Doris Symonds, Membership Chair

Aaron Buchko's Presentation

Many of you were interested in getting a copy of Aaron Buchko's presentation from last Wednesday's meeting. His Powerpoints follow:

NAWBO June 2010 no 1

NAWBO June 2010 no 2

Reminder: NAWBO-Central Illinois Welcomes Disney Institute to Bloomington on June 25, 2010

Don't forget! NAWBO-Central Illinois is proud to partner with ASTD Central Illinois Chapter to bring Disney’s Approach to Quality Service program, presented by the world renowned Disney Institute, to the Bloomington area on June 25, 2010.
 
A unique one-day event, Disney’s Approach to Quality Service will challenge you to look at your business – no matter what size – in an entirely new light. Showcasing the powerful strategies and business models that are the cornerstones of the Disney organization’s long-term success, you will learn how to apply innovative Disney strategies to your own organization for immediate results. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity and register today.
 
IMPORTANT: Please use promotional code NAWBOMNE to receive $50 OFF PER GUEST when registering. Additional group discounts are available.
 
TO LEARN MORE AND REGISTER GO TO: www.KeysBloomingtonIL.com
No prerequisite training required.

June Meeting Announcement

Our June meeting for NAWBO-CIL is Wednesday, June 16, 2010. Your RSVPs are due Monday, June 14, by Noon!

For your convenience, you can now pay for your meal online! Just go to http://nawbo-cil.org/payment.htm.

This month’s meeting is at Mt. Hawley Country Club, 7724 N Knoxville Avenue in Peoria.
(Click here for a map.)

Times and Agenda
4:30 pm – Educational moment by Dr. Aaron Buchko
5:30 pm - Social and Networking Time
6:00 pm - Dinner
7:00 pm – Program:  “The Virtuous Company” by Dr. Aaron Buchko
“What are the true qualities that define outstanding organizations?  Books and research over the past decades have tried to answer that question in many ways; but have we learned anything?  As we look around us today, we see organizations facing significant challenges.  Despite all of the efforts, we seem to be not much better off today than we were years ago.  How can leaders today build truly outstanding companies?  In this presentation, Dr. Buchko will discuss the various approaches to understanding company performance and shed light on the characteristics that define the best companies in the world.”

Dr. Aaron Buchko is Professor of Management in the Foster College of Business, Bradley University, teaching graduate and undergraduate courses in Planning and Strategy and  graduate courses in Executive Development and Business Ethics.  He earned his Ph.D. in management from Michigan State University. 

Please respond as soon as possible by replying to this message or sending your response to secretary@nawbo-cil.org. Please make sure you receive a reply back to confirm that we've received your e-mail.

You can also check the attendance list at http://www.nawbopulse.com/the_pulse/see-who-is-attending.html. It’s a great place to verify that we’ve received your RSVP or cancellation!

Door Prize: Remember, if it’s your birthday, please bring a door prize.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – MEMBERS - $30, GUESTS - $35
Reservations made but not kept will be billed accordingly.

RSVP – by Monday June 14th, Noon

Make check payable to: NAWBO
Click to: secretary@nawbo-cil.org
Mail to: PO Box 10072, Peoria, IL 61612
Call: 309-692-2225

NAWBO-Central Illinois Welcomes Disney Institute to Bloomington on June 25, 2010

The National Association for Women Business Owners-Central Illinois is proud to partner with ASTD Central Illinois Chapter to bring Disney’s Approach to Quality Service program, presented by the world renowned Disney Institute, to the Bloomington area on June 25, 2010.
 
We invite you to explore world-renowned Disney principles for service excellence and discover how attention to detail creates a consistent, world-class service environment.
 
A unique one-day event, Disney’s Approach to Quality Service will challenge you to look at your business – no matter what size – in an entirely new light. Showcasing the powerful strategies and business models that are the cornerstones of the Disney organization’s long-term success, you will learn how to apply innovative Disney strategies to your own organization for immediate results. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity and register today.
 
Disney’s Approach to Quality Service event is…

• Relevant: Impacts critical drivers of success in a slow economy
• Affordable: Priced to serve more people under limited budgets
• Actionable: Easy to implement upon return to the office
• Inspirational: Generates team excitement and momentum
• Short: Takes only one day away from the office
• Local: No travel expenses

Professional development doesn't cost—it pays.  It pays by creating a framework of focused energy in a vacuum of uncertainty.  It pays by helping an organization gain share in a slow economy.  The long-standing reputation of Disney Destinations for incredible service and friendly employees is not magic, it is sound ideology consistently applied in business. This program is designed to help organizations improve their quality service by immersing themselves in the successful Disney model.
 
IMPORTANT: Please use NAWBO-Central Illinois promotional code NAWBOMNE to receive $50 OFF PER GUEST when registering. Additional group discounts are available.
 
TO LEARN MORE AND REGISTER GO TO: www.KeysBloomingtonIL.com
No prerequisite training required.

NAWBO May Meeting - Emotion & Negotiation

NAWBO-CIL Appoints Doris Symonds & Lindsay Brown to Attend NAWBO’s National Conference In Washington, DC

Local Peoria business woman, Doris Symonds, CEO of Teaching and Learning for Knowledge Company and Lindsay Brown, CEO of Lindsay Brown Communications in Bloomington were appointed by the board to attend the celebration of the 35th Anniversary and “The Power of One” at the Women’s Business Conference in Washington, DC.

Washington, DC is where history is made.  It was 35 years ago when NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners) made its own history when it was founded in the nation’s capital-which is home to the federal government.  Hundreds of women from around the country and the globe will join NAWBO in the celebration on June 8-12, 2010.  Doris and Lindsay will return and present a workshop on the information received at the national conference.   

“This is a very proud moment for me to have been appointed to attend a national conference that works to empower all women business owners and entrepreneurs and for me to represent business women in central Illinois,” said Doris Symonds.  The opportunity to hear keynote speaker, Valerie Jarrett, Senior Advisor and Assistant to the President will be worth the trip for me.

“The NAWBO Central Illinois local chapter is a professional organization where women of Bloomington can come and build relationships in Peoria and network with seasoned business owners that offers and shares technical training, certified expertise, public policy, and participate in community events,” said Lindsay Brown. 

Peoria’s chapter works to strengthen the wealth-creating capacity of our members and promote economic development.  We create innovative and effective changes in the business culture, build strategic alliances, coalitions, and affiliations.  We transform public policy and influence opinion.  Meetings are held the third Wednesday of every month beginning at 4:30 pm at the Mt. Hawley Country Club.  Contact Doris Symonds, 309-224-9665 for membership or visit the website:  www.nawbo-cil.org

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.”  

Discover Your Leadership Instinct

What kind of leader are you? Find out by attending Express Employment Professionals' Leadership Instinct Simulcast on Wednesday, May 5.

Speakers include:

• Our emcee, Andy Buckley, aka David Wallace  on The Office
• Jim Stovall, author of The Ultimate Gift
• Ann Phillips, consulting partner with The Ken Blanchard Companies
• Russ Moen, VP of Human Resources at Express Employment Professionals
• Bob Funk, founder and chairman of Express Employment Professionals

For more information, and to register, go to www.myleadershipinstinct.com.

For a printable flier, click here.

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

Submit Comments on the Proposed SBA Women’s Procurement Program

Dear WIPP Members and Friends,

It is time to act and make your voice heard in Washington!  The deadline for submitting comments is Monday, May 3rd.

WIPP created a template for comment submission, which you can access by clicking here.

To submit a comment, go to www.regulations.gov, referenced by ID#: 3245-AG 06.

Detailed background information is available by clicking here.

It is of the upmost importance to submit your comments and voice your opinion before this proposal is finalized.  Some key points of the proposed program include:

• Allowing contract officers to restrict competition to WOSB in 83 industry categories that were Identified as either "underrepresented” or "substantially underrepresented” by women
• Program Eligibility: Certified small business that is women-owned and controlled (51%+ owned and managed by one or more women)
• Contract Size: $5M for manufacturing contracts; $3M for other goods and services

WIPP had several briefings on the issue, and yesterday, WIPP’s Procurement Committee hosted a detailed webinar on the proposed SBA Women’s Procurement Program, led by Ann Sullivan, WIPP Government Relations, who then fielded live questions. 
 
If you were unable to attend the webinar yesterday and want to learn more about the proposed program, the podcast and presentation are available by request to all WIPP dues-paying members in good standing. 

To request the presentation and podcast, please contact Jessica Davis, WIPP Program Specialist, at jdavis@wipp.org.  If you are interested in joining WIPP and gaining access to these materials, in addition to the wealth of information, updates, and programming WIPP offers, please contact Noelle Duncan, WIPP Member Services, at nduncan@wipp.org. 
 
If you have any questions about the proposed program, please contact WIPP Small Business Policy Analyst, Angelin Barrios at abarrios@wipp.org.
 
Barbara Kasoff, President
Women Impacting Public Policy

Annual WIPP Issues Survey

WIPP Members and Friends:
 
It’s time to be heard and be counted!
 
Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) is conducting its Annual WIPP Issues Survey and your participation is critically important.  This survey allows us to speak authoritatively on your behalf with Members of Congress, key officials in the White House, and renowned national reporters.
 
When the question is, "What do women in business want?” the annual survey lets WIPP answer with the greatest impact.  And "impact” is what it’s all about: Women Impacting Public Policy.
 
If you have already taken the survey, thank you very much.  We appreciate your input and support of WIPP.  If you have not yet taken the survey, please take a few minutes to make sure your opinion is included.  It covers a variety of policy issues such as taxes, procurement, access to capital, energy, and healthcare and lets us know what issues are important to you.  All surveys are confidential and must be completed and submitted by Sunday, April 11, 2010.  Survey results will be posted on our website at www.WIPP.org.
 
It’s time to be heard and be counted!
 
Barbara Kasoff, President

Women Impacting Public Policy

Click here to take the survey.

Women Impacting Public Policy, Inc. (WIPP) is a national bi-partisan public policy organization that advocates for and on behalf of women and minorities in business in the legislative processes of our nation, creating economic opportunities and building bridges and alliances to other small business organizations.  Through WIPP, our collective voice makes a powerful impact on Capitol Hill and with the Administration.

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

April Meeting Announcement

Our April meeting for NAWBO-CIL is this Wednesday, April 21, 2010. Your RSVPs are due April 19th by Noon.

For your convenience, you can now pay for your meal online! Just go to http://nawbo-cil.org/payment.htm.

This month’s meeting is at Mt. Hawley Country Club, 7724 N Knoxville Avenue in Peoria.
(Click here for a map.)

This month we celebrate Corporate Partner Appreciation Night! We'd love to see everyone there to thank our corporate partners for their support.

Times and Agenda
4:30 pm – Educational moment
5:30 pm - Social and Networking Time
6:00 pm - Dinner
7:00 pm – Program:  Social Marketing – “Using Today’s Technology to Take your Business to the Next Level”

Please respond as soon as possible by replying to this message or sending your response to secretary@nawbo-cil.org. Please make sure you receive a reply back to confirm that we've received your e-mail.

You can also check the attendance list at http://www.nawbopulse.com/the_pulse/see-who-is-attending.html. It’s a great place to verify that we’ve received your RSVP or cancellation!

Door Prize: Remember, if it’s your birthday, please bring a door prize.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – MEMBERS - $30, GUESTS - $35
Reservations made but not kept will be billed accordingly.

RSVP – by Monday, April 19th, Noon

Make check payable to: NAWBO   Total: ________________
Click to: secretary@nawbo-cil.org
Mail to: PO Box 10072, Peoria, IL 61612
Call: 309. 692-2225

Name: __________________________ Guest: __________________________

Make Mine a Million $ Business Competition

Think you have what it takes: Apply now to the Make Mine a Million $ Business Competition. If you have already WON, invite and encourage friends and women in your local community to apply:

Find the link below for your reference:

http://www.makemineamillion.org/grow/content/type/tools/article/930

Stories Needed for American Heart on ABC's "World News with Diane Sawyer"

We recently received a request for inspirational "tug-at-your-heartstrings" stories to possibly feature on an ABC "World News With Diane Sawyer" segment. Here's a description of the segment from the ABC News Correspondent who contacted NAWBO Media Relations. If you feel you or one of your NAWBO Chapter members have a story that would be appropriate for consideration, please sent it to media@nawbo.org. We will pass it along for consideration.

Thanks so much,
The NAWBO Media Relations Team

Query:
For those of you who often wish the media would tell more “good” stories, we’d like to alert you to a new opportunity.  ABC “World News with Diane Sawyer” has a new segment called “American Heart,” in which the broadcast features stories of individuals, companies, communities… committing acts of generosity that change lives for the better. For example, the broadcast did a recent segment about the father of a special needs child who couldn’t find an amusement park that would accommodate disabled kids so he rallied the resources to build one himself. If you have a story of great “American Heart,”  please let us know.