Uncommon Sense

7 ways to fight off bankruptcy

Editor's note: Columnist MP Dunleavey and eight other women have come together online to strip away the myths surrounding money, lay bare their assets and liberate themselves from debt. Follow the quest for financial fabulousness of these "Women in Red" every second Monday in Dunleavey's column on MSN Money.

Over the last two decades, bankruptcy rates among women have been rising at a frightening rate.

Some 69,000 women filed for either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy in 1981. By 2001, according to research by Harvard law professor Elizabeth Warren, women filing independently or as part of a couple numbered close to a million.

As part of a small, brave band of Women in Red who struggle against the financial forces of darkness in the world, I have to ask why -- and what can we do to protect ourselves?

A lack of financial stability

Obviously, being female doesn't predispose you to bankruptcy any more than, say, having brown hair. But the research seems to indicate that women are more likely to end up in certain economic straits that can lead to bankruptcy.

Contrary to the stereotype that those who file for bankruptcy have irresponsibly spent themselves into a hole, nine out of 10 women were forced into bankruptcy by a job loss, medical emergency or divorce.

These are the same factors that send many men into bankruptcy, says Warren, co-author of "All Your Worth." But a woman's hold on economic security tends to be more tenuous to begin with -- particularly if they have children.

Warren's data, based on Chapter 7 and 13 filings, make it scarily clear:

• For unmarried men, the bankruptcy rate was 6.3 cases per thousand.

• For unmarried women, it was 7.2 cases per thousand.

• For married couples without children, it was 7.4 cases per thousand.

• For married couples with kids, the rate about doubles to 15.3 per thousand.

• And for single women with kids, the bankruptcy rate nearly triples to 21.3 cases per thousand.

Single women alone comprise almost 40% of all bankruptcy filings.

Bankruptcy's red flags

What's going on? "Women often start off with lower incomes, and they're particularly vulnerable after a divorce, when they're typically bearing the brunt of the child-care burden," says Travis Plunkett, legislative director of the Consumer Federation of America.For example, Marian, the newest member of the Women in Red, has not filed for bankruptcy. But she has many of the classic warning signs:

• She's a single mom. When Marian's husband left eight years ago, she was left to raise her three children without any child or spousal support. "Divorce isn't a picnic for men or women," says Warren, "but the economic strain falls disproportionately hard on women," who are often left to care for children or aging parents. "They have every cost that married couples do, and they're trying to do it on one income."

• She didn't have a steady income. Also, like a lot of moms with very young children, Marian worked from home, helping out in her husband's business. In the event of a split, women without a full-time job or the skills to get one are the most financially unstable, says Harlene Miller, a bankruptcy lawyer in Santa Ana, Calif. "They (don't) have a significant employment base so they're less able to get out in the marketplace to start supporting themselves."

• She wasn't paying attention to money matters. With three children and a struggling business, it's no wonder Marian pushed aside the bigger financial questions -- like how they would repay the family loans that floated their enterprise. Luckily, their families forgave those debts, but many women pay a price for keeping their heads in the sand, says Miller. She cites a client whose husband died suddenly at age 50, leaving her with over $100,000 in credit card debt that she'd had no idea about. "It's imperative for all women, as a matter of survival, to be involved in the family's finances," she says.

• She took on more debt than she could handle. In her 17 years as a bankruptcy attorney, Miller has seen women pile up tens of thousands of dollars in credit card debt to get by. Marian did exactly that, tapping the equity in her home (which had been paid off) to borrow $100,000. She used the money to pay off a personal loan and medical bills and to cover her son's tuition at a special-needs school.

• Many women don't adjust their lifestyle quickly enough. This is less true of Marian, who used her college accounting degree to get a job after the divorce and recently started her own business. But Warren says many women are vulnerable to going broke because they don't face the realities of what it takes to survive on one income and adjust speedily.

Nor would women's risk of bankruptcy be lowered much if they got more support from their ex-spouses, Warren says. "The increased cost of raising children has far outstripped the increase in child support."

"You do better if there are two parents, but the reality is that any parent is at much greater risk of collapse," she says. "It's parents who are pushing themselves to their limits to buy houses in decent school districts. It's parents who are struggling to pay for health insurance and a second car and good child care."

"And if a married couple can barely make it on two incomes, a single mother won't be able to make it on one and a quarter," assuming she gets that support from her ex, Warren adds.

Steer clear of bankruptcy court

Obviously, there are some times when filing for bankruptcy may be a woman's best or only solution. But despite being financially at risk, Marian would benefit little from filing for bankruptcy, Miller says.

Most of Marian's debt is secured, i.e. tied to her house. That debt would not be discharged, or forgiven, in a bankruptcy case. Women with unsecured debt, like credit card debt, used to have a better chance at seeing their financial slate wiped clean.

But a new law that took effect in late 2005 is far more stringent and focused on getting people to repay their debts, not walk away debt-free.

If you feel that bankruptcy might be your best choice, Miller advises consulting with a full-time bankruptcy lawyer who can help you decide if it's worth the consequences.

Meanwhile, if you feel you're at risk for bankruptcy based on these five financial risk factors, and especially if you're a married woman on the brink of divorce, act now to protect yourself:

• Get savvy. If you're not on top of your finances, now is the time to take a crash course (and read lots of Women in Red articles, of course).

• Divide your debts. Cancel all joint credit cards and other debts.

• Claim your assets. Make sure your name is on the title to the house and on all investment accounts.

• Shore up your career now. Don't wait for divorce, layoff or illness to strain your income.

• Scale back your lifestyle now. "If you're getting divorced, you need to live on 50% of what you're used to," says Warren.

• Know your rights. In the event of divorce, the IRS allows you to file an "innocent spouse" claim, if you feel you don't owe certain taxes.

• Get financial counseling. Depending on your circumstances, you may not need bankruptcy if you can learn to live within your means.

League of Women Voters Meeting

From Dendra Best
Manistee County League of Women Voters

The next meeting of the newly formed Manistee County League of Women
Voters will be held at 7pm at the Farr Center, Main Street, Onekama on
Monday June 5, 2006 . The League wishes to acknowledge with gratitude the
generous gesture of the Village of Onekama who waved the customary fee
for the use of the Farr Center.

With August primary elections plus local millage and proposals on the
ballot, as well as new voting machines to get used to - there will be
much to discuss with this month's Guest Speaker - Manistee County Clerk
Marilyn Kliber.

State level proposals and important filing dates may be viewed via a
link from the Manistee League's web site at www.lwvmanisteecounty.org.

An alternative date will be set for July as the customary First Monday
conflicts with the Holiday - but the location will be in Copemish in
keeping with LWV's intent to visit each Manistee County Community and
promote citizen involvement in local government and governance.
August's meeting is slated for the Wellston area, September for Kaleva
(again on an alternate date). October will see a full slate of
preparedness and forums for the November elections.

Anyone interested in learning about the Manistee League of Women Voters
is welcome to attend. Membership is open to anyone eligible to vote in
the US. You may print a form to mail or join via the web at
www.lwvmanisteecounty.org.

For more information please contact Jackie Johnson at 231 864 5030 or
email info@lwvmanisteecounty.org

Laughing Matters Leader Certification Workshop

You remember Gail Robinson...we laughed with her at our November luncheon...Laughing Matters! is her program. Several area businesses hired Gail to conduct smaller workshops at their businesses after our luncheon. Gail is scheduled to be our speaker again in November 2006 - - - helping us to have a laugh through the traditionally stressful holidays.

Gail will be conducting a Laughter Leader/ Certification Workshop June 23 and June 24 in Lake Leelanau Michigan. This unique Laughter Workshop will benefit health care providers, counselors, yogo insturctors, therapists, teachers, social workers, and community volunteers...anyone who is ready to explore the scientifualy proven heath benefits of mirthful laughter while adding more joy, wellness, and relaxation to their life and the lives of others.

For more information contact Gail Robinson gail@laughingmatters.us 231-256-3477

Stop Multitasking

Stop Multitasking

by Margaret Heffernan

We must carve out time to think.

Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, at 11:30, my calendar had an unmovable meeting. It lasted only half an hour but my assistant knew that on no account could it be changed or cancelled. And so, three days a week, at 11:30, I’d walk out the door; I’d be back at noon.

No, it wasn’t face time with the boss. I didn’t visit a therapist and I wasn’t at the gym. I held this all-important appointment for myself. It was my thinking time. I had finally reached the conclusion that, if I didn’t book time to think, I’d never do it. I couldn’t do it at my desk – phones, email, and In trays were too distracting. I couldn’t do it at home – kids, husband, garden, house, and the permanent pile of laundry were too demanding. If I wanted to think then I had to make time for it – and get that time protected.

What I’d discovered was the downside of multitasking. Nowadays, we scan our email while talking on the phone, check the Blackberry in the bathroom, make phone calls from the train. Women, we’re told, are natural multitaskers, confidently cooking dinner while on the phone and supervising homework. Men struggle to emulate us, proudly boasting that they too can attend soccer matches while listening in on conference calls. The competition is not just about how much work we can shift but how many different jobs we can complete simultaneously. Real leaders, we’re told, have a bias for action – so to look like leaders, we become hyperactive, never doing two things when we could be doing four.

What gets lost is thoughtfulness. We’ve gotten so attached to multitasking that we’re in danger of forgetting how to single-task. When did you last have a conversation, a real conversation, with a colleague or a friend – while paying them the compliment of your full, undivided attention? When did you last read a book and give yourself time to think about what it meant and whether or not you agreed with it? When did you last analyze the themes of your career to find out how you could achieve more?

My appointment with myself showed me many things. It always reminded me of something important that had been overlooked in the heat of the day. It often revealed patterns in my work, or the work of my colleagues, that indicated problems or opportunities. Occasionally, it made me see a mistake we could avert, or an opportunity that was staring us in the face. It regularly helped me to recognize patterns – in relationships, problems, products and markets.

Half an hour’s thinking time, three times a week, doesn’t seem like much. But you don’t actually need vast amounts of time to think; you just need that time to be focused and uncluttered. My half hour of walking around a very mundane city block didn’t change my life but it did change my way of working. It made me see the difference between being busy and being productive. I came to learn that having that uninterrupted conversation, for as long as was necessary, turned out to be more effective than the rushed corridor chat or the quick email. I learned that a lot of work, when you ignore it, really does go away – and no one cares. (This felt, and still feels, heretical.) I learned that thoughtfulness beat multitasking most of the time.

One of the places I do my best thinking nowadays is on planes. I used to hate flying and I’m not a big fan now. But I appreciate the fact that the phone won’t ring, no new emails will arrive, and I probably am not going to run into anyone I have to talk to. On a plane, I can think. It’s something I can never do in the office.

When asked if they wanted to be able to use cell phones on flights, most passengers said no. They didn’t want to overhear other peoples’ conversations, they didn’t want to be contactable. Like me, I think they’ve come to treasure their time alone in the sky. When I speak at conferences and I ask my audience how much time they get to think, mostly what I get is nervous laughter. We all know that we should think – but we also all know that it is impossible to do at work. We have built a knowledge economy that depends, for its very survival, on thinking. But we have built organization and offices which won’t let us think. We have to walk around the block, or fly around the world, in order to do what is the very heart of our work.

That we have built organizations which preclude the one activity they’re designed for is an irony of monstrous proportions, well beyond the scope of a single individual to fix. Solutions aren’t going to emerge quickly or easily. They certainly won’t emerge in the white heat of multitasking. What, as individuals, we need to do is carve out our own thinking time and learn to protect it. We need to do so on the understanding that this is not not working – it is the foundation of work itself. When I see spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations flickering on planes, I feel a twinge of regret. I want to say: Stop it! Your boss isn’t watching. No one will walk in. The phone won’t ring. You have the luxury of uninterrupted time. Seize it. Cherish it. Catch up on the one task that never figures on your Action List. Sit back. Shut your eyes. And think. You won’t regret it.

Mentoring Margaret Heffernan Fast Company

Fast Company

Of Proteges and Pitfalls

A complete plan for getting the mentoring you need.

From: Issue 97| August 2005 | Page 81 By: Margaret Heffernan and Saj-nicole Joni

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When John (unless explicitly identified by full name and company affiliation, names have been changed to protect identities) worked for a global energy company, he gained skills and visibility through the coaching of his mentor and boss, Richard. But when Richard fell out of favor, suddenly John lacked cover. He was so strongly associated with his boss that his stock started to fall, too.

Alice was so effectively advised by her mentor that she started to overtake him. When Alice found herself within striking distance of his job, she was distraught. If she didn't go for it, her company's hard-charging culture would write her off. But if she did, she'd feel disloyal.

Ah, mentoring. No one disputes its value, but its pitfalls are legion. Since the 1970s, studies have repeatedly demonstrated that mentoring is the single most valuable ingredient in a successful career for both men and women. So now everybody wants a mentor. But mentors aren't fairy godmothers; they can't and shouldn't be expected to make all your dreams come true. For women and minorities in particular, the overexpectation problem is acute. Female leaders are often expected to fill the roles of mother, sister, girlfriend, and activist -- and do their day job. Minority executives speak of a responsibility to "lift as we rise," to improve conditions for the whole group while carving out their own careers. Men are often wary of mentoring women, fearing gossip and innuendo, but they also don't want to appear sexist. Considered together, it's inevitable that mentoring will consistently create issues of trust and confidence. So how can you negotiate these effectively? What should you be thinking about when initiating a relationship with a mentor, and what should you expect? What are the rules of the mentoring game?

1. Choose well

Find someone who is committed to the relationship, will give it time, wants to see you thrive, and doesn't need to compete with you. Be explicit about needing honest feedback, not just moral support. A great mentor tells you when you're brilliant, but more important, delivers tough love. This also means that you have to be prepared to listen to some hard truths and awkward questions. When Saj-nicole Joni was a rising executive at Microsoft, her finance person kept making mistakes, which she pointed out as soon as he passed out his spreadsheets. Meeting with her mentor, Jeff Raikes, she expected praise for the division's best ever quarter. Instead, he read her the riot act. "I don't care if Jack's numbers are wrong, or how smart you are," he said. "You don't treat a junior employee like that in front of others. If you don't fix this, you aren't going anywhere." Tough love of the best sort. And Joni fixed it fast.

2. Get formal mentors

Many companies run formal mentoring programs, and if yours does -- go for it. You can learn a great deal about corporate policies, politics, and fault lines just by watching these relationships. But when mentor and protege work for the same company, there will always be things that can't safely be discussed.

When Jane signed up for her ad agency's mentoring program, she was a little daunted when the company assigned Jacqui to be her mentor. A managing associate, Jacqui had a reputation as a ferocious leader who drove teams hard to get results; she had little interest in feedback or dialogue. Jane learned a lot from her, though, and they got along well. But when Jane heard that most of Jacqui's group thought Jacqui was heading for a fall because she wasn't listening, Jane could only take it in, not intervene. Formal mentoring programs obey formal lines of command. There's a limit to what you can share.

3. Mentors don't have to be the boss

Not all mentoring relationships need to be so formal or follow the chain of command. When Paige Arnof-Fenn ran the Olympic Coin Program, which raised funds for the Atlanta Olympics, her mentor was her assistant, Beverly Spears. "I learned more watching Bev handle people and situations than you can imagine," she says. "She always took the high road and never compromised her integrity." Spears's ability to teach Arnof-Fenn how to handle complex personality politics turned Arnof-Fenn into a strong corporate player and illustrates how mentors can be found at any level. Their informal relationship continues to this day, because it wasn't fundamentally based on their business relationship.

4. Find expertise mentors

We all have areas of expertise. Find someone -- inside or outside your organization -- who you consider outstanding in your field. When Ed Hotard was COO of Praxair, a Union Carbide spinoff, he made a habit of introducing his highfliers to leaders in the same disciplines in other companies. He wanted to give them the opportunity to stretch themselves in their field. But some were too preoccupied with day-to-day operations to find the time. "I didn't blame them," he says, "but I found that those who didn't take advantage of the introductions weren't going to progress very far." Hotard provided expertise mentors to deepen his proteges' knowledge and experience, but he also used the introductions to test for professional and intellectual ambition.

5. Find a third opinion

When you get to the top, you can't look to a mentor for all the answers. Problems are too complex and time consuming. Instead, find someone who looks for answers with you. You need a third opinion -- a thinking partner outside your company, often on retainer, who has no vested interest in anything except your success.

Ramon got his first leadership break when he became EVP of manufacturing at Coatings Worldwide, an industrial paints and adhesives business. But he found that his manufacturing teams were so siloed that they caused expensive production breaks. His first thought was to hire better people, but that would cost time and money with no guarantee of success. He knew he needed a different approach. Hearing Anesh, an experienced player in global manufacturing, speak at a conference gave him an idea. Ramon needed his breadth of experience, so he invited him to Coatings as a consultant and paid him to reframe and test the issues. "Anesh challenged my thinking and made me stretch to see areas I wouldn't have otherwise considered," he says. Anesh was a great mentor because he didn't have an agenda. He was an outsider, and he didn't have a solution he was trying to sell. This let him frame the questions differently and move beyond fault finding.

6. Think life, not just career

We tend to think of mentors purely in the context of work, but work is just part of your whole life. Holly, a software executive at General Electric, argues that you need mentors for each part of your life -- who, together, represent a personal board of directors. "The key to the personal board of directors is to make sure it is balanced," says Holly. "If it is all work and no family, then guess where your advice will be skewed? If you neglect one area of your PBOD, you will neglect that area of your life." If financial security, community, or spiritual life are important to you, find mentors for these, too. Having a personal board doesn't just enrich your life, it also protects you from a dependency on a single mentor. And it puts you in a strong position to evaluate where your mentoring relationships are thriving -- and when it's time for a change.

Sidebar: Pointers for Mentors

Choose wisely.

Choose a protege you can learn from, too -- someone who may give you some insight into different layers of your organization.

Be serious.

Don't commit to a mentorship if you can't invest the necessary time. Block out regular meetings, set goals, and plan on spending at least one hour a month.

Observe boundaries.

Know what kind of mentor you are and concentrate on that role. Make sure you and your protege understand the limits on trust within an organization.

Encourage outside voices.

If you can't provide the third opinion to your protege, make sure he or she gets one from somewhere outside the company.

Introduce your protege to other mentors.

This lessens dependency and provides other growth opportunities. A network of mentors beats a single one and provides an outstanding model for leadership.

Sidebar: Open-Source Mentoring

Memo to General Electric CEO Jeffrey Immelt: We hate to be the ones to tell you, but apparently there was a much easier way. The International Mentoring Network Organization (IMNO) is a nonprofit group devoted to helping early- and midcareer professionals connect with A-list mentors. Its idea is that everyone should be able to have access to the Welchian wisdom Immelt received. So IMNO founder Patrick Tedjamulia paired with two friends to reach out to bigfoot mentors, interview them, and share their knowledge with everyone at IMNO.org. Among their gets so far are, yes, Jack Welch, Larry Bossidy, even a storyboard artist from Spiderman 2 (IMNO refreshingly knows not everyone wants to be GE's CEO).

There are several ways to use IMNO.org. One is to interview your own mentor and post the transcript. Or you can choose a dream mentor and request that he or she sit for an interview. Or you can just read others' postings.

IMNO's transcripts offer several advantages over career-advice tomes, and most of the credit belongs to hungry mentees who don't beat around the bush about wanting to get ahead. For example, Bossidy was asked how to advance at GE (succeed in projects that touch a variety of industries) and when to jettison a good gig for a risky one (when you've learned all you can in a job).

Like any open-source project, the site is free. What you achieve with the advice, of course, could be invaluable.

-- Mike Brewster

Sidebar: Match.com for Mentors

Those who lead charmed professional lives might find a trusted career mentor in an office down the hall, or maybe even in the next cubicle. But how will you find that perfect sounding board if he or she toils hundreds -- or thousands -- of miles away?

Forward-thinking companies are turning to Mentor Scout, a Web-based mentor-matching tool created by Nobscot Corp. An annual subscription costs anywhere from $2,500 to $25,000, depending on the number of participants. Home Depot, Best Buy, and even Brunswick Corp.'s bowling division have adopted the technology to help far-flung operations managers.

General managers-in-training at Brunswick Bowling & Billiards can log on to the system, fill out a member profile -- including skills they want to improve -- and up pops a list of volunteer mentors from within the company that fit the bill. "I don't want to say it's like a dating service, but it kind of works that way," says Dean Schuller, a longtime general manager.

Using the service, newly minted Brunswick manager Kelly FitzGerald, based in Chicago, found a mentor in Philadelphia. "Because we connected through the Web, a mentor doesn't have any preconceived notion of what you know," Fitz-Gerald says. "You just have to ask them for help, and it's all confidential." Besides, there can be some advantages to a mentor who can't see a messy desk -- or catch you rolling a few extra frames after closing.

-- MB

Margaret Heffernan is a fastcompany.com columnist and author of The Naked Truth (Jossey-Bass, 2004). Saj-nicole Joni is CEO of Cambridge International Group and author of The Third Opinion (Portfolio, 2004).

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Copyright © 2005 Mansueto Ventures LLC. All rights reserved.
Fast Company, 375 Lexington Avenue.,New York , NY 10017

Give Mom the Gift of Financial Security

Give Mom the Gift of Financial Security This Mother’s Day

AAUW: Nearly One-Half of U.S. Adults Don’t Know Mom’s Financial Situation

WASHINGTON – While repaying mom for all she’s done in years past may be an impossible task, asking her a few simple questions right now may make a difference when it comes to her financial future. A recent American Association of University Women Educational Foundation survey of U.S. adults found that 40 percent knew very little or nothing about mom’s financial situation. In addition, the poll found that younger adults – those whose mothers have not yet reached retirement age – are less likely to know the importance of Social Security to the economic security of their mothers. According to the report, Social Security is the largest source of income for older women and is expected to remain so.

“The best gift you can give mom this Mother’s Day would be to supply her with financial information concerning her retirement,” said Catherine Hill, interim director of research at the AAUW Educational Foundation. “Women today live on average three years longer after the age of 65 than men do and, unfortunately, too many women spend their retirement years in poverty. They also tend to marry somewhat older men, which means women are more likely to be on their own when they retire.”

Whether it’s Social Security, pensions, 401(k)s, or personal savings, knowing what questions to ask mom about her personal financial situation may make a huge difference in her retirement and her life as a whole.

Useful thoughts and facts to share with mom this Mother’s day

· While the average 65-year-old woman can expect to live another 20 years, she has a 14 percent chance of living for 30 years to her 95th birthday. Savings need to comfortably stretch past “average” life expectancy.

· Over time, the value of mom’s nest egg will decrease as the cost of living rises. Even a modest inflation rate of 3 percent will make $100 today worth about $74 in 10 years; after 25 years, the value would drop by more than half to $45.

-more-

· Social Security is the only source of retirement income that is fully protected from inflation and longevity. Mom maximizes her Social Security benefit by delaying the date that she begins receiving benefits.

· Mom can continue to work while receiving Social Security retirement benefits. Even if she begins taking benefits before the normal retirement age, she might need or want to continue working. If she begins receiving benefits before the normal retirement age, much of her earnings will be exempt from the “earnings test.” Furthermore, reductions made under the earnings test result in higher benefits later on, when she stops working altogether.

· Recent proposals to privatize Social Security have been thwarted. Further, such plans usually exempt current retirees and workers close to retirement age. Nevertheless, it makes sense for mom and you to keep your eye on Social Security in next election cycle to ensure that future generations can retire with security. Privatizing Social Security would substantially reduce benefits and significantly increase the national debt.

· Be sure to ask mom about a power of attorney should something unexpectedly happen to her. With a power of attorney, a family member will be able to act on mom’s behalf regarding financial, legal and medical matters.

To read the report, visit www.aauw.org/research/mothersdaypoll2006

Or visit www.aauw.org

Contact Ashley Carr at 202/466-9633 for more information regarding the AAUW survey or to schedule interviews.

Available interviews

Catherine Hill, AAUW Interim Director of Research, AAUW Education Foundation – For information about the report

Lisa Maatz, Director of Public Policy, American Association of University Women – For information about AAUW’s public policy position

Maria Umbach, Vice President, Prudential Financial – For information on retirement

for women

Survey methodology

Lake Research Partners added the requested questions to an omnibus phone survey of 1,015 adults ages 18 and older, including 508 men and 507 women, living in the continental United States. Interviews were conducted from March 16 to March 19, 2006.

The AAUW Educational Foundation is a leader in research on the educational and economic status of women and girls. Its research on gender equity issues raises public awareness and provides a call to action for educational institutions, policymakers, legislators, and the public. The AAUW Educational Foundation is also one of the world’s largest sources of funding exclusively for graduate women. Together with the American Association of University Women, a leading advocate for equity and education for women and girls since 1881, the Educational Foundation has adopted a multiyear programmatic focus, Education as the Gateway to Women’s Economic Security.

The Mom’s Retirement Security research project was made possible by a generous contribution from Judy Horan, AAUW Educational Foundation development vice president, in honor of her mother, Rose Steinkampf Horan.

AAUW: Because Equity Is Still an Issue

www.aauw.org

Online Database of Women Experts -

SHESOURCE.ORG is an opportunity for the media to help close the gender gap in the news.

Despite their growing ranks as experts in fields ranging from national security and military spending to technology and health care, women continue to be drastically underrepresented in the news media as shapers of policy and leading voices of experience and authority on critical issues.

Too many journalists do not quote women as experts simply because they do not know any women who are experts in the fields that they cover.

SheSource.org closes the gender gap in news coverage by making it easy for journalists to connect with women experts to quote and voice their opinions on topics of interest. With a few quick clicks, journalists can find women experts in a variety of fields all across the country.

SheSource.org is an online database of women experts on diverse topics for journalists. SheSource.org is designed to include spokeswomen from a variety of backgrounds, representing demographic and ethnic diversity as well as work in a variety of issue areas - particularly ones that are traditionally male-dominated.

SheSource.org is the cornerstone of an initiative by The Women's Funding Network, Fenton Communications and The White House Project to foster more representative public discourse by increasing the number of women whose opinions are reflected in the news media.

Journalists can search for experts by issue, simply by using the pulldown boxes on the front page of the SheSource.org web site. A list of women who fit the search criteria will be displayed with link to their biographies, which includes detailed information about their expertise, media experience, background, and contact information.

Manistee County League of Women Voters

The Manistee  County League of Women Voters is moving full steam ahead!
 On May 1 the new organization officially became a Member At Large
group affiliated with the State of Michigan League of Women Voters. 
The next meeting of the local organization will be held 7pm Monday, 
June 5 at the Farr Center in Onekama. Each of the next monthly meetings
will be at a different community throughout the county to build
membership in preparation for holding candidate forums throughout the
county prior to the November elections. The local organization has an
official website (www.lwvmanisteecounty.org) where interested
individuals, men as well as women, can learn about who and what the
League is as well as obtain a membership form.  At the last meeting
members worked in groups to list the activities they wanted to see LWV 
Manistee County take on. The list was prioritized with the final
emphasis being to begin preparing a "They Serve You" publication
listing all elected and appointed positions within the county, the
terms and when they expire, how to register to vote, with links to
information sources such as the county clerk.  For more information
about this new Manistee  County group, or to offer to host a meeting in
your community, e-mail info@lwvmanisteecounty.org or call
(231)864-5030.

New Books Available at the Library

Two new books are now available at the Manistee County Library thanks to the Women’s netWork and two authors who spoke in Manistee recently. “The One Decision” by Judith Wright and “Bold Spirit” by Linda Hunt have been added to the Women’s netWork section of the library.
Judith Wright spoke at the April netWork luncheon that was attended by 142 women in the area. According to Wright, making the One Decision and choosing a life of MORE—purpose, fulfillment, satisfaction, love, career, and worldly success—is a definitive act, one that will separate your life into the time before and the time after. Your One Decision leads you to be the very best you can possibly be. Have the sense that your life counts—a life of more of everything you desire.
“She was very inspirational and a number of women purchased her book at the luncheon,” said Judy Ouvry, a co-founder of the netWork. “And Judith has invited local women to attend a training at the Wright Institute in Chicago in August. More information about that can be found on her web site” (judithwright.com).
Linda Hunt was a speaker during last week’s Celebrating Women Festival. She donated a copy of her book, “Bold Spirit, Helga Estby’s Forgotten Walk Across Victorian America”.
Desperate. Determined. Unwaveringly confident. In 1896, a Norwegian immigrant named Helga Estby dares to cross 3500 miles of the American continent to win a $10,000 wager. On Foot. BOLD SPIRIT: Helga Estby’s Forgotten Walk across Victorian America introduces readers to this fascinating journey of an audacious act of courage and love of a mother trying to save a family farm.
The Women’s netWork section of the library was started with a collection of over 50 books donated by area women in December 2005 through the Women’s netWork.

MI Supreme Court Justice Weaver May Speaker

Justice Weaver will be the speaker at the May 18 luncheon. RSVP to manisteewomen@yahoo.com Tickets are $10 at the door. It will be held at the Little River Casino Resort. Doors open 11:30am until 1:15pm. Ticket price includes a great lunch.

Justice Weaver, of Glen Arbor, attended undergraduate school at H. Sophie Newcomb College, receiving her bachelor's degree, Phi Beta Kappa, in 1962. She earned her law degree from Tulane University in 1965, served as an editor of the Tulane Law Review, received the Order of the Coif, and served as law clerk for Judge Oliver P. Carriere of the Louisiana Civil District Court. Justice Weaver began her law practice in Louisiana, then in Michigan in 1973. Elected Leelanau County probate/juvenile judge in November 1974, she was re-elected to six-year terms in 1976 and 1982, serving through January 1, 1987. In 1986, Justice Weaver was elected to the Michigan Court of Appeals, 3rd District, for a six-year term, and was re-elected in 1992. She was elected to the Michigan Supreme Court in 1994 and served as Chief Justice from 1999-2000. She was reelected in 2002. Justice Weaver's term expires January 1, 2011.

Justice Weaver was appointed to the Michigan Commission on Criminal Justice by Governor William Milliken; to the Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice by Governors James Blanchard , John Engler, and Jennifer Granholm. She was also appointed to chair the Governor's Task Force for Children's Justice and the Trial Court Assessment Commission by Governors Engler and Granholm. She has served as chair of the State Bar of Michigan Juvenile Law Committee and as president of the Top of Michigan Probate and Juvenile Judges Association. In addition, Justice Weaver has served on the National Council of Juvenile and Family Judges and as secretary of the Probate and Juvenile Judges Association of Michigan. Justice Weaver's honors and awards include being selected as one of five "Outstanding Young Women in Michigan" by the Michigan Jaycees and as one of "Thirty Outstanding Women in Michigan" by the Michigan Womens' Commission. In 1999, she was named "Jurist of the Year" by the Police Officers Association of Michigan. In 2000, she received the "Michigan Champions in Childhood Injury Prevention: Lifetime Dedication to Children Award"; also in 2000, Justice Weaver was honored by Governor Engler and the Family Independence Agency for outstanding service to the children and families of Michigan. The Michigan Association of Drug Court Professionals honored her in February 2002 for her exceptional service to and support of Michigan 's drug courts. In 2003, she was recognized as an "Outstanding Woman in Leadership and Learning" by Ferris State University . She has been featured in People magazine .

LUNAFEST Coming to Manistee

Eight Award Winning Films to be Featured at LUNAFEST


For more information and film photos, go to:
www.lunabar.com/lunafest/


MANISTEE - - - - The Women’s netWork is hosting LUNAFEST as part of the 2006 Celebrate Women Festival. LUNAFEST will be held at the historic Ramsdell Theatre in Manistee Saturday, May 6th beginning at 6:00pm. LUNAFEST will be followed by cocktails and desserts at intermission, then guests will be treated to the DVD “Vagina Monologues” beginning at 8:15pm.

LUNAFEST was created to raise awareness about women's issues, highlight women filmmakers, bring women together in their communities and raise money for the Breast Cancer Fund.

LUNAFEST is a national film festival that showcases short films by, for and about women. LUNAFEST is a special evening where women (and their friends, families, partners, husbands and boyfriends) can gather to view a selection of diverse films. The films range from documentaries to animated shorts to dance narratives and cover topics such as women’s health, body image, sexuality, spirituality, sports, relationships, cultural diversity, breaking barriers and the environment.
LUNAFEST 2005-2006

The 2005 winning filmmakers come from around the globe and have won awards at film festivals from Sundance to Los Angeles with their inspirational films and stories. It is an honor to have them as part of LUNAFEST this year.

“We are very honored to have this opportunity to bring films of this quality to Manistee as part of the Celebrate Women Festival,” said Judy Ouvry, one of the event organizers. “If you appreciate quality award-winning films, this is an event you won’t want to miss. It is only fitting that the Women’s netWork bring this event to Manistee.”

As a special feature this year, LUNAFEST is turning 5, and in celebration they have compiled their top 8 films from the past 5 years for your viewing pleasure. Come celebrate with us on the 5th Year Anniversary of LUNAFEST!

Tickets are $25 per person ($50 per couple) and include LUNAFEST, cocktails and desserts and the Vagina Monologues. Tickets are available at the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau or the studios of Oldies 101.5 FM at 52 Greenbush. Doors open at 5:30 pm. The films will be shown in the historic Ramsdell Theater. Refreshments will be served in Hardy Hall. More information about LUNAFEST can be found at www.lunabar.com/lunafest/




The following films will be featured at part of LUNAFEST 2006

BACKSEAT BINGO
Liz Blazer
5 Minutes 25 seconds
Sexy Senior Seeks Same. Backseat Bingo is an animated documentary about the romantic lives of Senior Citizens.
Awards/Screenings: Official Selection Telluride Film Festival, Official Selection AFI Fest, First Prize Animation Magazine Student Award

ONE WEEKEND A MONTH
Directed by Eric Escobar
11 Minutes 30 seconds
Meg McDermott (Reneé O’Connor) is a busy single mom juggling time spent in the National Guard and time spent caring for her two young children. The film begins on a typical crazy Monday morning as Meg gets her children ready for school. She receives a phone call that changes her life. A friend informs her that her National Guard unit will be activated for duty in Iraq in two weeks. This begins the ride that is the film. We witness Meg unravel as she struggles through a series of phone calls to figure out who will take care of her children. She cannot turn to her friends, the fathers of her children or her mother. What will she do?
Awards/Screenings: Official Selection Sundance Film Festival, Official Selection AFI Fest

TAHARA
Directed by Sara Rashad
17 Minutes 30 seconds
TAHARA revolves around Amina who must decide if she will submit to family pressure to circumcise her daughter or abandon this age old tradition because of pressure she recieves from her mother when her husband's away on a business trip. Does Amina find courage to save Suha from the brutal physical and psychological effects of female genital mutilation?
Awards/Screenings: Santa Barbara Int’l FF, Victoria Independent Film festival, DC Independent FF

BLESSING
Directed by Suju Vijayan
14 Minutes
Maya, home for her brother Nealís high school graduation, is forced to deal with their often overbearing, sometimes embarrassing mother, Asha. For as long as she can remember, Maya has been frustrated by what she sees as her mother's inability to listen to her or understand her. The free-spirited Asha, however, is seemingly oblivious to her daughter’s feelings, and instead forces unwanted and sometimes misguided advice on Maya, from the spiritual to the romantic. But Asha is not without surprises, forcing Maya to rethink her opinion of her mother...
Awards/Screenings: Santa Cruz Film Festival, LA Film Festival

TWILIGHT
Directed and Produced by Victoria Gamburg
21Minutes
A story about loss, despair and the possibility of redemption, set in the mysterious Russian city of St. Petersburg during its strange White Nights, when darkness never falls. A woman, Masha (Maria Voronina) searches fruitlessly, through morgues and down alleys, for a daughter who disappeared three years previous. A bored policeman ignores her when she tries to file yet another missing person report. Doggedly scanning St. Petersburg's many discarded children, she focuses on her own task and ignores their cries for help.
Awards/Screenings: Best Narrative Short, San Francisco Int'l Film Festival, Best Student Live Action Over 15-minutes, Palm Springs Shorts Fest, Official Selection Telluride Film Festival and Toronto Int'l Film Festival

PERFECTION
Directed by Karen Lin
6 Minutes 24 Seconds
From infancy, an Asian American woman learns the game of perfection. But if your goal is perfection, will the game ever end? Milton Bradley’s game Perfection is “a race against time” where players must match shapes to a board in 60 seconds. The game mirrors an Asian American woman’s struggle to achieve success and gain her parent’s approval. Taught the game as an infant, she races into her teens winning competitions and getting straight A’s, only left to wonder whether or not her parents will love her even if she fails. Ultimately she must decide whether to end the game.
Awards/Screenings: LA Film Festival, San Francisco Int’l Asian America FF, Seattle Int’l FF, Vancouver Int’l FF

LAYING DOWN ARMS
Directed by Carol Schreder
13 Minutes 45 Seconds
This is the story of two women who forge an unlikely friendship through a mistaken phone call. Janet, a troubled young woman, and Esther, and elderly holocaust survivor, engage in a conversation that transforms both of their lives.

MABEL'S SAGA / LE VOYAGE DE MABELLE
Directed by JoDee Samuelson
15 Minutes 3 Seconds
Mabel is juggling the demands of work, teenagers and an elderly mother. Now, she is confronted with a new challenge: hot flashes and chin hairs! Before you can say "estrogen," purple-haired Mabel finds herself the unassuming heroine of her own adventure... the adventure of aging. MABEL'S SAGA is a touching, funny film without words that celebrates menopause as a natural transition, rather than a medical condition to be feared. The film blends animation with a lush musical landscape, offering a reassuring look at one of the most important passages in a woman's life.

Awards/Screenings: Winner- Montreal World Film Festival, Best Short- Atlanta Film Festival

Women’s netWork Luncheon Draws Record Crowd

Women’s netWork Luncheon Draws Record Crowd

MANISTEE - - - - The monthly luncheon of the Women’s netWork drew a record crowd Thursday at the Three Fires Conference Center at the Little River Casino Resort. Over 140 women attended the luncheon with guest speaker Judith Wright.
Wright is hailed as a peerless educator, world-class coach, lifestyles expert, inspirational speaker, best-selling author, and corporate consultant. In her first book, There Must Be MORE Than This: Finding More Life, Love, and Meaning by Overcoming Your Soft Addictions, she examines how Soft Addictions often get in the way of a more fulfilling life. In her new book, The One Decision, she shows readers what a fulfilling life of MORE really is, and how making the decision to live a life of MORE changes what we do, how we think, and what we feel.
“We could not have been more thrilled to have been able to bring such an inspirational speaker to Manistee,” said Judy Ouvry from the Women’s netWork. “She evoked so much emotion from the women and she told stories that we could all relate.”
A media favorite, Judith has appeared on over 300 radio stations and 30 television shows, including Oprah, Good Morning America, The Today Show, and Fox & Friends. Magazines and newspapers across the country feature her work, including Marie Claire, Fitness Magazine, Health, Better Homes and Gardens, Shape, The New York Daily News, The Chicago Tribune, The Boston Herald, and The Detroit Free Press.
“Judith will be holding a weekend seminar at the Wright Institute in Chicago for women in our netWork in early August,” said Ouvry. “We expect many women from our area to attend. Anyone interested can get more information from her web site: judithwright.com.”
Judith and her husband, Bob, are the founders and directors of the Wright Institute in Chicago (www.wrightliving.com), where every day they inspire and teach others to live lives of MORE by making their One Decision. Judith and Bob live, love, work, and play near the Institute in Chicago, and at their conference and training center in Elkhorn, Wisconsin.
Judith Wright was sponsored by Bottrell Wireless, Your Alltel Authorized Agent in Manistee and Benzonia.
For more information about the netWork check out the blog at http://womensnetwork.blogspot.com . The netWork meets the third Thursday of each month. For more information contact the netWork at manisteewomen @yahoo.com

Judith Wright April Luncheon Speaker

Judith Wright, a peerless educator, world-class coach, lifestyles expert, inspirational speaker, best-selling author, and corporate consultant, will be the speaker at the monthly Women’s netWork lunch Thursday, April 20, 2006. Due to the expected large turnout, the luncheon will be held at the Little River Casino Resort Three Rivers Conference Center.
In her first book, There Must Be MORE Than This: Finding More Life, Love, and Meaning by Overcoming Your Soft Addictions, she examines how Soft Addictions often get in the way of a more fulfilling life. In her new book, The One Decision, she shows readers what a fulfilling life of MORE really is, and how making the decision to live a life of MORE changes what we do, how we think, and what we feel.
Judith has appeared on over 300 radio stations and 30 television shows, including Oprah, Good Morning America, The Today Show, and Fox & Friends. Magazines and newspapers across the country feature her work, including Marie Claire, Fitness Magazine, Health, Better Homes and Gardens, Shape, The New York Daily News, The Chicago Tribune, The Boston Herald, and The Detroit Free Press.
“We are truly excited to have a speaker of this caliber coming to Manistee for one of our netWork luncheons,” said Judy Ouvry, co-founder of the netWork. “Women typically would need to travel to Chicago or New York to attend one of Judith’s seminars. We’re blessed she agreed to come here. She recognizes the work our netWork is doing in West Michigan.”
The May and June speakers are also expected to draw a large crowd. Michigan Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Weaver will be the speaker May 18 and Michigan Women’s Commissioner Brenda Quick Jones will be the guest June 15. Both of these luncheons will also be held at the Three Fires Conference Center
The luncheon will be held Thursday, April 20th from 11:45-1:15 pm at the Three Fires Conference Center. The cost is the usual $10 which includes a buffet lunch. An additional $5 donation is requested from those able to help defray expenses. Reservations can be made by sending an email to manisteewomen@yahoo.com. The luncheon will be sponsored in part by Bottrell Wireless, Your Local Authorize Alltel Agent in Manistee and Benzonia.

Bold Spirit Author Linda Hunt to Speak May 4

Talk about determination. Talk about inspirational. Please get a copy of Bold Spirit and read it today. It is the story of a Norwegian immigrant mother of eight children names Helga Estby who boldly walked across the continent with her 18-year old daughter Clara to win $10,000 in an attempt to save her family home. This book covers social, economic, political and cultural landscapes in America in the late 1890s.

Linda Hunt will talk about this book, (Thursday, May 4 Tuscan Grille, $15) the importance of family stories, and how easy it can be to erase someone. Helga will inspire you, build your confidence, and give you the determination you need to succeed at anything. Book signing will be available at the luncheon.

Tickets for the luncheon will be available at the Convention and Visitor's Bureau in Manistee.

League of Women Voters meeting April 3, 2006 at 7 p.m

The next meeting of the League of Women Voters of Manistee County will
be Monday evening, April 3, 2006 at 7 p.m.  The meeting will be held at
The Manor in Bear Lake, on the corner of Main and Smith.
At the last meeting, at which Anne Magoun, current State President of
LWV was the guest speaker, the group decided that having a set date
(the 1st Monday of the month), time (7 p.m.), and place (Bear Lake
Manor) would be helpful in these early stages.  Later, quarterly
meetings may be more appropriate and locations will vary.  And, of
course, The Manor is such an elegant and comfortable location.
The agenda for the upcoming April 3 meeting will include the following:
1.  get acquainted time
2.  confirm selection of meeting dates/time/location
3.  develop membership campaign strategy
4.  select 1-2 projects on which to direct our immediate attention. 
Projects that elicited the most
interest at our last meeting were:
preparing "They Represent You" bulletins for Manistee County voters;
holding "Meet Your Local Candidates" seminar(s) for the upcoming
elections;
and organizing LWV observers to attend local government council
meetings
Bring Your IDEAS, for projects and Bring a FRIEND.
LWV Membership applications will be available at the April 3 meeting. 
Or, you may become immediate members online at www.lwvmi.org.  
If you have any questions or need to contact us prior to Monday's
meeting, please call Jackie at 864-5030 or Dendra at 864-2686. 

Carol Atkins to Speak at March Luncheon

Make plans now to attend the March 16, 2006 Women's netWork luncheon at the Tuscan Grille downtown Manistee. March is Women's History month...so we ask you to think about women who have made a positive impact on your life...you'll have the opportunity to talk about them during lunch. Following lunch, we have the pleasure of listening to a video presentation from Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm addressing Women's History Month.

Did you vote in the last election? You will want to thank our speaker, Carol Atkins. Carol was one of many women who spent years working on the campaign to give women rights. No, she is not 150 years old. She is not 125 years old. She is not 100 years old. Women earned the right to vote in the 20s thanks to women like Carol who worked hard for years and through much abuse to give each of us women a very special gift - -- women's rights . Come to the luncheon Thursday and thank her personally!

RSVP to manisteewomen@yahoo.com The cost is $10 and includes your lunch. 11:45 - 1:15pm.

From www.womensmedia.com

Interview with Madeleine Albright: Advice for Working Women By: Nancy Clark CEO, WomensMedia

Inside Career Negotiation Be Accountable Proper Response

Nancy Clark: Among our audience are 25,000 professional women each month. Their concern is frustration in not reaching the upper levels of corporations. Looking at the statistics, it appears gender is making a difference — 16% of upper management is female (46.5% of workforce is female). What advice and insights do you have for women? Madeleine Albright: I tell women to act in a more confident manner. You need to learn to interrupt. Ask questions when they occur to you and don’t wait to ask. Also, you don’t need to ask permission to ask a question. Be a risk taker; business appreciates risk takers. This trait is desirable in prospective leaders. I want to emphasize: Don’t be a woman with a chip on her shoulder. I see many women with this attitude. They don’t accomplish as much as they could. Others don't want to assist them with their concerns. Nancy Clark: Do you see business starting to appreciate the talents women can add? Madeleine Albright: Yes, I see relational leadership skills beginning to be highly valued by business. Sometimes being a woman is an advantage in business. Women are excellent multi-taskers, and as such, are well suited to new business demands. When my daughters had children, they perfected this talent and could appreciate how I’ve used it in my life. Multi-tasking is necessary for raising children and now is very important in the way business needs to be conducted. Nancy Clark: My reason for taking action is the realization that decades after the start of the women’s movement, recent MBA female graduates are still saying, “If I just put my head down and work through lunch, work even harder, then I’ll be recognized.” Repeating these same actions and expecting new results is alarming to me. Madeleine Albright: Yes, I read that same Catalyst survey and agree that if women continue to keep their heads down working away, instead of speaking up, they won’t get noticed. Madeleine Albright Former U.S. Secretary of State, Author of Madam Secretary Madeleine Albright and Nancy Clark, CEO WomensMedia in a photo taken during this interview. Madeleine Korbel Albright was nominated by President Clinton on December 5, 1996 as Secretary of State. After being unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate, she was sworn in as the 64th Secretary of State on January 23, 1997. Secretary Albright was the first female secretary of state and was the highest ranking woman in the U.S. government. Secretary Albright has three daughters. Order Madam Secretary Today!

League of Women Voters Monday, March 6

Manistee County Chapter of the League of Women Voters. Everyone is invited to an informal (coffee and chocolate!) gathering to discuss the role and purpose of the League of Women Voters of Michigan, and to consider reconstituting the Manistee County Charter. Mary Grover, President of Grand Traverse Area League of Women Voters will be the Guest Speaker. The gathering will be held at Bear Lake Manor, Corner of Main and Smith Street, Bear Lake, on Monday, March 6, from 7 until 8.30 p.m. The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization established in 1920 to encourage informed and active citizen participation in government. It never supports or opposes any political party or candidate but rather works to increase understanding of local and major policy issues through education. Membership in the League of Women Voters is open to all citizens, women and men, of voting age. See www.lwvmi.org for more information about the League. An RSVP would be appreciated - please call 231 864-2686 or email lwv@deertracks.com.

More Business Lunch Tips

Ten Quick Etiquette Tips for Business Lunches

Knowing what to do when meeting a prospective client for lunch, or going to lunch with the boss or colleague can be confusing at times. Here is a quick list of items to remember:
By Catherine Franz
1. Be in the present moment with whoever you are with. Limit glancing around the room. It's a sign that you are looking for something better. There is nothing worse than having a conversation with someone who is half there.

2. Being on time. This sounds so commonsensical. The percentage of people being late is over 65 percent. Don't push your time to the last minute before leaving the office so you will be late. Take some reading or work with you, arrive early, sit in the lobby, and work. Or give yourself some space to think over how you want to approach the time together. You introduction, tone, style, or even plan a quick get away if the union isn't working. The memory implant of your lateness will always override any request for forgiveness.

3. Turn off your cell phone before entering the restaurant. No one around you wants to hear your conversation. Even if you let it ring, pick it up and then take it outside. Did you leave your lunch companion alone? This is just plain rude. If you have an "I don't care attitude" about this, I'll tell you a story about a lunch guest of mine who did this and the three prospects she was meeting didn't even sit down. They saw her talk, she waved a 1-minute finger single to them, and they turned around and walked out. They wouldn't even answer her phone calls or emails afterwards.

4. If you are woman and this is business, it's appropriate now to stand up and shake the hand of a male. This overrides the old rule of staying seated. If the meeting is for your spouse's business and you are coming along because other spouses are coming, then you stay seated as your spouse stands up. This rules applies for either gender.

5. Offer your hand and give a firm handshake. Sometimes, people who don't like to shake hands will not meet yours. Don't think anything of it if they don't, this is just their preference. And particularly don't say something cute or funny.

6. Think of an opening statement to make as you are shaking hands. This is part of your first impression, so make it good. Always use the guest's first name either at the beginning or at the end of the statement. For example, "Thank you for taking the time to get together today, Catherine." When needing to complete a group of introductions, highest rank rules over gender.

7. Small talk is important--don't leave it out. The length of time for small talk depends on many factors. If you are in the presence of famous or very rich people and not in a social setting, then the small talk, if any, is going to be quick and short. It could be as short as one or two sentences. People who know how much their time is worth, or who are doing you a favor by being there, also fall into this category.

8. Aha, who picks up the tab? If you did the inviting, you are responsible for the check. No matter how more well-off they are. If a joint meeting, ask at the beginning or when scheduling the lunch on check splitting. Waiting until the check arrives to state the check splitting is a sign of professional weakness. If you are meeting with someone who is giving you valuable advice, you must pick up the tab. A personal handwritten follow-up note is also appropriate. If they have saved or helped you make more money, send them a gift or gift certificate. If you don't you will never get any more of their time again. This has occurred to me, and the person never gets any time again.

9. Where does the napkin go? Immediately after sitting, place the napkin in your lap. If you notice the napkin is in the goblet, this is usually a signal from the restaurant that the server will place the napkin into your lap. If you excuse yourself during the meal, place the napkin on the left hand side of your plate or on the chair. This signals the server that you aren't done. When done, place napkin on the right of the plate and your fork and knife horizontally across the plate to signal the server.

10. What to eat and use first? Which glass or which fork can be confusing. Bread and salad plates always to the left, drinking glasses to the right. Utensils start from the outside in and the dessert fork is by the dessert plate. Lay your fork and knife across your plate to signal the server you're finished.
Keywords: etiquette, lunch, meetings, business, marketing, CatherineFranz, how-to, article, free

Catherine Franz, Arlington, VA USA
catherine@abundancecenter.com
http://www.abundancecenter.com
Catherine Franz is a 30-year veteran in the marketing industry and is a Certified Business Coach, Certified Teleclass Leader and Trainer, and Master Attraction Practitioner. Her clients include accounting firms, restaurants, retail stores, coaches, employees wanting to find better jobs, and independent professionals from hundreds of service businesses. For daily marketing tips and newsletters on "Tennis Shoe Marketing," "Law of Attraction," and "Marketing Writing," visit: http://www.AbundanceCenter.com or contact her directly at 703-671-5677.

Dining Etiquette...did you know?

http://www.bsu.edu/students/careers/students/interviewing/dining/

From Ball State University - - the above web site offers great tips and reminders on dining etiquette - - please take a minute to check it out before your next business dining experience!

Dining Etiquette
Table manners play an important part in making a favorable impression. They are visible signals of the state of our manners and therefore are essential to professional success. Regardless of whether we are having lunch with a prospective employer or dinner with a business associate, our manners can speak volumes about us as professionals.

February Meeting Notes...

Women’s netWork
manisteewomen@yahoo.com


For those who missed it…

The Women’s netWork met for their regular luncheon Thursday, February 16 at the Tuscan Grille on River Street in Manistee. Nearly fifty women attended on the cusp of a blizzard.
The program focused on the kick-off of the Women’s Empowerment Giving Circle Career Mentoring Program. The first mentors/mentees were matched and they will begin meetings.
Selected for the program were Katherine Russell, a Brethren High School student with an interest in architecture. Her mentor is local architect Kendra Thompson and their work will focus on the new Manistee Blaker Airport terminal project.
Also selected was Megan O’Brien, a Manistee High School student with an interest in political science. Her mentor is Manistee County Commissioner Janice McCraner. Megan will be exposed to county commission meetings as well as the political scene in Lansing and around the state.
This program is being made possible as a direct result of the Women’s Empowerment Giving Circle fund that was created by the netWork through the Manistee County Community Foundation.
A second round of career mentoring will take place in Fall, 2006. More information will be available late summer through the MCCF. Cash donations for the Giving Circle are always encouraged and welcome.
Also discussed at the February 16 luncheon: 360 degrees - the Measure of a Leader that will be held in Manistee May 5th at the Manistee United Methodist Church. The live simulcast will feature a renowned line up of leadership experts for a remarkable day of leadership training. Contact Sally Koon at Jackpine Business Centers for more information.
The League of Women Voters of Michigan invites people to an informal gathering to discuss reconstituting the Manistee County Chapter. The meeting will take place at the Bear Lake Manor on the corner of Main and Smith Street in Bear Lake Monday March 6 at 7:00pm. RSVP to 864-2686.
Athena Award nomination forms are now available from Joni Purgiel at National City Bank or from the MECCA office at 11 Cypress Street. The award will be presented Wednesday, May 3rd at the Athena Award Program and luncheon during the Celebrate Women Festival.
Women are invited to learn more about how The International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) can enhance your professional career, and the benefits of membership, by attending a special meeting of the Sandy Shores Chapter from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 15, 2006 at the Manistee City Hall Council Chambers, 70 Maple Street, Manistee. The keynote speaker will be Julian Tonning. You may R.S.V.P. by phoning Cindy Lokovich at 231-398-2801 or by e-mail to clokovich@ci.manistee.mi.us.
The next monthly luncheon is Thursday, March 16, 2006 at the Tuscan Grille. Email manisteewomen@yahoo.com for more information.

SURVIVING AND EXCELLING

SURVIVING AND EXCELLING WITH THE CHANGES IN YOUR ADMINISTRATIVE CAREER

Change is constantly occurring and seems to be coming at a much more rapid rate. Your success as an administrative professional will be determined by whether you recognize, and how you handle, these changes. Whether it is enhancing your current skills or learning new skills, knowing who to contact for information about various topics, or networking with other administrative professionals, the International Association of Administrative Professionals® (IAAP®) can give you insight into these questions, plus much more.

All administrative professionals are invited to hear our keynote speaker address the topic of change, learn how IAAP can enhance your professional career, and gain insight into the profession by attending an informational meeting of the Sandy Shores Chapter of IAAP from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 15 at the Manistee City Hall Council Chambers, 70 Maple Street, Manistee.

IAAP is the world’s largest professional association for administrative staff, with nearly 700 chapters and 40,000 members and affiliates worldwide. For over 50 years, IAAP has provided up-to-date research on office trends, cutting edge publications, outstanding seminars and conferences, top-notch resources to help administrative professionals enhance their skills and become more effective contributors to their employers.

For more information about attending the meeting, and to R.S.V.P., contact Cindy Lokovich at 231-398-2801, or via email at clokovich@ci.manistee.mi.us

Women’s netWork Donates Books

Women’s netWork Donates Books to Manistee County Library


MANISTEE - - - - The Manistee County Library has a new collection of books thanks to the Women’s netWork in Manistee County. At their regular December meeting, the women each brought a book on a professional development and leadership related topic. The collection was donated to the library.
“We often recommend books through out netWork, but we also know not everyone can afford to purchase the books on their own” said Judy Ouvry, one of the founders of the netWork. “So giving the books to the library was our gift to all women in the area - - - access to a wealth of information important to the professional development and leadership of women.”
Thanks to the Manistee County Library, these netWork books will be easy to identify and find at the library. Simply ask for the list at the circulation desk for a copy of the Women’s netWork books. All the books are currently on special display at the Manistee library.
“Manistee County Library was happy to receive books from the Women's netWork. At the December meeting, members of the netWork donated books that had touched their lives,” said Sue Wess, Executive Director of Library Services for Manistee County. “ The library is pleased to share these books with the community.”
For more information about the netWork check out the blog at http://womensnetwork.blogspot.com . The netWork meets the third Thursday of each month. For more information contact the netWork at manisteewomen @yahoo.com

The White House Project

Please check out The White House Project Web Site - - -

The White House Project Mission

The White House Project, a national, nonpartisan, non-for-profit organization, aims to advance women’s leadership in all communities and sectors, up to the U.S. presidency. By filling the leadership pipeline with a richly diverse, critical mass of women, we make American institutions, businesses and government truly representative. Through multi-platform programs, The White House Project creates a culture where America’s most valuable untapped resource—women—can succeed in all realms.

To advance this mission, The White House Project strives to support women and the issues that allow women to lead in their own lives and in the world. When women leaders bring their voices, vision and leadership to the table alongside men, the debate is more robust and the policy is more inclusive and sustainable. By supporting women and the values that allow women to succeed—the full range of health options, security platforms that utilize all our resources, economic stability for all—we work to create an equitable culture.

Find out more about our team at The White House Project:

• Board of Directors
• Advisory Board
• Staff
• Consultants
• Our Partners
• Job Opportunities
• FAQ

The White House Project
110 Wall Street
16th Floor
New York, NY 10005
212-785-6001 (Tel)
212-785-6007 (Fax)
admin@thewhitehouseproject.org

For press inquiries and interviews, please contact Candace McAdams, Director of Marketing and Communications at 212-785-6001 x 26 or Lindsay Clinton, Communications Manager at 212-785-6001 x 12.

June 15, 2006 Luncheon Speaker

Brenda Jones Quick, Traverse City
Brenda is an attorney with the law firm of Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge in Traverse City. Prior to joining the firm in an "Of Counsel" capacity, she served as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs (1995-1998) and Professor of Law (1989-2001) with the Michigan State University, DCL College of Law. At the time she "retired" from legal education, she was awarded the position of Professor of Law Emeritus. Brenda is a member of the State Bar of Michigan and the American Bar Association. She has spoken at numerous events and has published several articles on a myriad of issues, including sexual harassment in the workplace and fair treatment for America's Native Americans. She currently serves on the Board of Zoning Appeals of Traverse City, the Board of Trustees of Goodwill Industries of Northern Michigan, and is Secretary for the Board of Trustees of G.W. Services, Inc., a non-profit corporation dedicated to providing employment opportunities to the severely handicapped. She also is certified to provide national disaster relief services with the American Red Cross.

Brenda has expertise in the areas of law and education that should be useful to the Michigan Women's Commission. She is committed to women's issues and is willing to devote the time and energy necessary to promoting these issues. She also is in a position to provide insight into the culture of Northern Michigan, and how these matters might be addressed in that venue.

May 18 2006 Luncheon Speaker

Justice Elizabeth A. Weaver
Justice Weaver, of Glen Arbor, attended undergraduate school at H. Sophie Newcomb College, receiving her bachelor's degree, Phi Beta Kappa, in 1962. She earned her law degree from Tulane University in 1965, served as an editor of the Tulane Law Review, received the Order of the Coif, and served as law clerk for Judge Oliver P. Carriere of the Louisiana Civil District Court. Justice Weaver began her law practice in Louisiana, then in Michigan in 1973. Elected Leelanau County probate/juvenile judge in November 1974, she was re-elected to six-year terms in 1976 and 1982, serving through January 1, 1987. In 1986, Justice Weaver was elected to the Michigan Court of Appeals, 3rd District, for a six-year term, and was re-elected in 1992. She was elected to the Michigan Supreme Court in 1994 and served as Chief Justice from 1999-2000. She was reelected in 2002. Justice Weaver's term expires January 1, 2011.

Justice Weaver was appointed to the Michigan Commission on Criminal Justice by Governor William Milliken; to the Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice by Governors James Blanchard , John Engler, and Jennifer Granholm. She was also appointed to chair the Governor's Task Force for Children's Justice and the Trial Court Assessment Commission by Governors Engler and Granholm. She has served as chair of the State Bar of Michigan Juvenile Law Committee and as president of the Top of Michigan Probate and Juvenile Judges Association. In addition, Justice Weaver has served on the National Council of Juvenile and Family Judges and as secretary of the Probate and Juvenile Judges Association of Michigan. Justice Weaver's honors and awards include being selected as one of five "Outstanding Young Women in Michigan" by the Michigan Jaycees and as one of "Thirty Outstanding Women in Michigan" by the Michigan Womens' Commission. In 1999, she was named "Jurist of the Year" by the Police Officers Association of Michigan. In 2000, she received the "Michigan Champions in Childhood Injury Prevention: Lifetime Dedication to Children Award"; also in 2000, Justice Weaver was honored by Governor Engler and the Family Independence Agency for outstanding service to the children and families of Michigan. The Michigan Association of Drug Court Professionals honored her in February 2002 for her exceptional service to and support of Michigan 's drug courts. In 2003, she was recognized as an "Outstanding Woman in Leadership and Learning" by Ferris State University . She has been featured in People magazine. In October 2005, she was named to the Michigan Hall of Fame.

April 20, 2006 Luncheon Speaker

JUDITH WRIGHT is hailed as a peerless educator, world-class coach, lifestyles expert, inspirational speaker, best-selling author, and corporate consultant. In her first book, There Must Be MORE Than This: Finding More Life, Love, and Meaning by Overcoming Your Soft Addictions, she examines how Soft Addictions often get in the way of a more fulfilling life. In her new book, The One Decision, she shows readers what a fulfilling life of MORE really is, and how making the decision to live a life of MORE changes what we do, how we think, and what we feel.

A history of vision in action
Judith's life has been dedicated to exploring optimum ways of living and being. After receiving her BA in psychology and her MA in education and counseling, Judith rose to national prominence in her first career in academia where she designed programs to help adults with disabilities attend college and modeled nationally recognized programs to support children with disabilities and their families. A trailblazer in human development, she has since been revolutionizing the personal growth industry, founding SOFIA (Society of Femininity in Action), a cutting-edge woman's organization and co-founding the Wright Institute in Chicago with her husband Bob, where they help individuals, couples, families, and corporations get more out of everything they do—more meaning, fulfillment, and success in relationships, career, parenting, and all the areas of their lives.

Prolific and effective in experience
Called "one of the most sought-after self-help gurus in the country" by the San Francisco Chronicle, Judith demystifies what it takes to lead a great life as she teaches proven, time-tested perspectives on how to have it all through her writing, teaching, coaching and public speaking. A media favorite, Judith has appeared on over 300 radio stations and 30 television shows, including Oprah, Good Morning America, The Today Show, and Fox & Friends. Magazines and newspapers across the country feature her work, including Marie Claire, Fitness Magazine, Health, Better Homes and Gardens, Shape, The New York Daily News, The Chicago Tribune, The Boston Herald, and The Detroit Free Press.

A speaker of inspiring truths
Judith is a sought-after speaker and expert in areas like relationships, creative conflict, work productivity, wellness and lifestyle, women's training and development, spirituality, and more. She has been a keynote speaker for many events, conferences and corporations, including Miss USA Symposium, Association of Junior Leagues International, McDonalds, Bank One, AC Nielsen, and the Association of Humanistic Psychology. Judith has the rare ability to touch audiences of all different types and sizes, communicating her messages with great passion that inspires audiences.
Judith and her husband, Bob, are the founders and directors of the Wright Institute in Chicago (www.wrightliving.com), where every day they inspire and teach others to live lives of MORE by making their One Decision. Judith and Bob live, love, work, and play near the Institute in Chicago, and at their conference and training center in Elkhorn, Wisconsin.
Judith Wright will be sponsored by Bottrell Wireless, Your Alltel Authorized Agent in Manistee and Benzonia.

netWork Update

Lots has been happening with the netWork in the past several weeks - - here is an update:

We have raised over $6,000 to date towards the Women's Empowerment Giving Circle fund we formed with the Manistee County Community Foundation. What an incredible amount to raise so quickly. Thanks to all who gave. We have a long way to go until we are able to grant dollars - - so don't stop giving. Please give more if you can; please ask someone else to give. It's simple - - - 100 women give $100 each - -we have the $10,000 we need to start the granting portion of the Giving Circle. Thanks to all so very much.

The December meeting luncheon was one of our best. Each woman who came to lunch brought a book on a women's issue or an issue of importance to women. Over 55 books were donated to the Manistee County Library System on behalf of the Women's netWork. We also had door prizes: Thank you to the Hollyhock, Hulls of Manistee, the Book Mark, Lake Michigan Broadcasting, Inc, Tuscan Grille, Goody's Juice and Java, the Little River Casino Resort, and Closson's Jewelry of Ludington. Our speaker was the wonderful Camille Kocsis who prepared us for the new year with a dynamite goal setting session. Thank you Camille!

A PowerPoint presentation is now complete. "The Status of Women in Michigan" is based on recent studies. Judy Ouvry did the first presentation January 17 to the evening Rotary in Manistee. We would like all of our governmental decision makers and leaders in the community to see this presentation. If anyone is interested in the presentation please contact the netWork manisteewomen@yahoo.com for details.

After the January luncheon - we all feel a little better equipped to protect ourselves. Thanks to Manistee City Police Det. Sgt. John Riley and Officer Kirsten Goodspeed who presented self defense and self protection information and tips. Trust your intution when faced with potential danger. Have a plan. Work the plan. Call the Manistee City Police Department if you would like a copy of their tip sheet. Thank you!

Watch for the list of speakers the netWork has put together for 2006 - - so far! Yo won't want to miss a single luncheon.