Mary Sue Wilkinson To Perform at December Luncheon

The always musical December luncheon of the Women's Economic Resource Center netWork Luncheon will feature a performance by Mary Sue Wilkinson.

Mary Sue started playing and singing as a teenager and since that time has become one of the leading "pure" singers in the traditional music scene. Her crystal clear voice rings true whether on a tender ballad or a straight-ahead swing number. Mary Sue is best known for her work in the band Iowa Rose, a roots band well known throughout Michigan and beyond. She is currently hard at work polishing the sound of her new band "Sister Wilene", a band dedicated to old time country songs and western swing music.

The Thursday, December 18th luncheon will be held at the Little River Casino Resort beginning at 11:30 am. Cost is $10. We have a few very special door prizes. Our luncheon sponsor is Bob Hathon, Representative, Edward Jones, Manistee.

About General Fedder

Women's History Month: General adds to family's military legacyBy Danielle GregoryTinker Public AffairsTINKER AIR FORCE BASE - March is Women's History Month and women have come a long way throughout history. Here at Tinker Air Force Base we are fortunate enough to have many outstanding professional women - military and civilian - who hold great significance in supporting the warfighter. As it happens with many people, , commander of the 76th Maintenance Wing was in college when she realized the career field she was meant to be in. What she did not realize at the time was that she would one day become one of a select few - a general officer in the United States Air Force. At the age of 20, she joined the Air Force, saying she felt like she needed to belong to a group after making the transition from a small town girl into a major university student. "One day I was in school and I saw a group of Reserve Officer Training Corps run by in formation and I thought, 'now that's where I belong,'" said General Fedder. Because General Fedder's father is retired military, her immediate family wasn't surprised by this step in her life. However, she said her hometown friends were very surprised and didn't think she would fit the mold. "One of my heroes as far as the military goes is my dad," the general said. "He was Army for 26 years and I learned to appreciate the life of service from him." That life of service has brought her to where she is today - one of a few female generals and commander of the 76th Maintenance Wing. She has become a role model for all women - military and civilian, according to wing members. "Her selection as commander of the largest maintenance wing in the Air Force, a historically male-dominated environment, is a tribute to her leadership and character," said Brenda Jones, chief of the 76th MXW's Financial Management Office. "She serves as an inspiration to all -- men and women -- with her logical calm leadership style and vision for the Air Force," said Bobbi LaRue, 545th Propulsion Maintenance Squadron director. General Fedder said she didn't aspire to come this far, she just aspired to do whatever her bosses did. She said she would observe what they were doing and try to learn what their job was. "I wanted to learn something from everyone," she said. Those under her leadership at Tinker are getting to learn from her today. "General Fedder's method of questioning allows her to gain understanding while guiding her people to constructively think outside the box," said Ginger Keisling, DMAG program analyst in the Business Operations Office. "This approach leads to a deeper understanding without being judgmental or condescending. She's a great leader who inspires her people to strive to achieve their greatest potential." Holding the leadership position that she is in now, General Fedder said she appreciates being on a team of professionals and serving people on that team. "Serving all Airmen and the flag is what drives me," she said. "When we look at people who are serving overseas and on the front lines, I know they can't really perform their mission unless we are all pulling to make sure they have what they need." General Fedder says she hopes to clear paths for future generations of women. "There are, fortunately, in the Air Force today, quite a few senior women who are serving. People should see this and know there are opportunities out there for everyone -- men and women," General Fedder said. "I believe everyone wants to do their best at whatever their job is. It is my job as a senior officer to help people be as successful as they can be." General Fedder said when Airmen put on the uniform and look in the mirror, they have to ask themselves, "Am I worthy to serve and lead?" "When I put on my uniform it makes me ask that question, and it forces me to stop and think about people's expectations of someone at my level, and whether I meet those expectations," she said. "I am very grateful to wear this uniform. People in uniform and people who wear civilian clothes are all serving. I thank them for the opportunity to serve them and serve with them." General Fedder's advice to those looking to advance is to excel in what they are doing now and know the job they're in is the most important job. "People will look to you for a job with greater responsibilities if you've excelled in your current duties," she said. "What is great about the Air Force are our core values," she continued. "We have people who really believe in them. What person wouldn't want to be part of a team whose core values are excellence, integrity and service? It is fulfilling a dream to still be a member of the Air Force."

BIO: And to read more....and Photo

http://www.af.mil/bios/bio.asp?bioID=8418

December 18th Luncheon

December 18 Thursday - -our Christmas Luncheon Special
11:30 - 1:15 $10 Little River Casino Resort

Featuring the music of Iowa Rose Mary Sue Wilkinson
This is also the luncheon where you bring a book for the library...
Gini Pelton will be getting us more information about the book drive soon.
Sponsored by Edward Jones Bob Hathon in Manistee - -THANK YOU!!!!

BONUS!!
And a special December guest: Brig. Gen. Judith Fedder ...hometown Manistee

Thursday November 20th Luncheon

Treat Yourself...
November 20 Thursday 11:30 - 1:15
at the Little River Casino Resort $10
Host: Anna Detz from the Casino
Sponsored by Women's Lifestyle Magazine
Program: Thanksgiving; Getting the most out of Networking; and Speaker CPA Mary Weishaar, owner of Weishaar and Company will talk about what you need to know about your finances prior to the end of the year and moving into 2009.

Mary founded her company in 1990 and has a strong commitment to community leadership. Her company has received numerous awards.
RSVP: manisteewomen@yahoo.com
Pay at the door...please RSVP and keep your reservation as the LRCR does a head count for food preparation.

WEDO TOUR Save the Date Oct 21, 2008

Women's Economic Resource Center WERC
Presents WEDO
Women's Economic Development Outreach Tour
BreakThrough! Impact through Innovation:
Your Competitive Advantage!
Save the Date: Tuesday October 21, 2008
Center Stage Theatre in the Arts and Sciences Building
Campus of West Shore Community College in Scottville
National WEDO 2008 will feature a satellite program panel
and national interactive
question and answer program as well as local programming,
a keynote speaker, and networking luncheon.
Registration will begin at 9:00 am. Cost is $45 and includes lunch.
Pre-Registration information will be available soon.
Save the Date
Creating Connections. Building Business.
WWW . MANISTEEWERC . ORG
MANISTEEWOMEN @ YAHOO.COM

US Senator Debbie Stabenow to Speak

MANISTEE – U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow will be the guest speaker at a Thursday, September 4 Women’s Economic Resource Center (WERC) breakfast beginning at 8:15 am at the Bungalow Restaurant in Manistee. The breakfast is open to everyone.
“We are pleased Senator Stabenow's schedule allowed her time to meet with the women in our community,” said Judy Crockett, WERC President. “Our families are facing many issues including job losses, decreases in income levels, and rising medical care costs. With more and more women left as the heads of households, caring for their families is becoming increasing challenging.”
A valuable question and answer format will be incorporated to allow attendees to pose questions around these and other tough issues, emphasizing Senator Stabenow's accessibility. Renewable energy plan, the economy, and the two ongoing wars will also be discussed.
WERC builds partnerships with other programs and organizations that are working to provide sustainable livelihoods, political and leadership opportunities and access for women and girls. Earlier this summer, WERC became a U.S. SBA Affiliate Women's Business Center. More information about WERC can be found at the web site www.manisteewerc.org
“We hold our regular monthly Women’s netWork luncheons on the third Thursday of each month,” said Crockett. “All women are encouraged to attend the luncheons and participate in WERC. WERC board meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month. This breakfast will be held in addition to our regular monthly September luncheon.”
The breakfast meeting will be held Thursday, September 4 at the Bungalow Restaurant at the corner of 28th Street and US 31 in Manistee. Doors open at 8:15 am. The cost is $10 payable at the door to the Bungalow, and includes the breakfast buffet, juice, coffee, tax and tip. To register, please send an email to manisteewomen@yahoo.com. Seating is limited.

Two Dumb Dames to Speak

MANISTEE - - - It has been said, "never under estimate the power of a woman" and if there are two women....something is really going to happen. Something good will happen Thursday, September 18 at the Women's Economic Resource Center (WERC) luncheon featuring two Bear Lake women, Gloria Edwards and Pauline Jaquish.
During Bear Lake Days they are affectionately known as the "Two Dumb Dames", a name they copied from a business in Eureka Springs, Mo. when they were on their yearly spring trip. Then a year later while in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, they attended a Chuckwagon Supper. On one of those trips back home, Gloria talked about her sister-in-law who had sent a few packages to a soldier in Iraq. She added, "We could do that!"And, “we” did, last July, with a fund-raiser at the Manistee County Fair.
Last October the ladies presented the Care Package project to the Bear Lake Promoters and asked for their financial backing if needed. So far there has been no need to ask for money from the Promoters, although their labor force has been well used in the processing and packing part of the project. Currently, there have been 303 Care Packages sent to military personnel of all branches serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Over $3,000 in cash has been donated to help pay for postage and buy supplies to send. Approximately 2,400 pounds of items ranging from prepackaged food items to personal hygiene products, writing material, magazines, books, white socks, t-shirts, lip balm, combs, razors, baby wipes, and the list goes on.....but only non-alcohol items and no aerosol cans....Postal Department rules. Contributions have come from all over Manistee and Benzie counties as well as throughout the state and even Chicago. Packages need to be sent throughout the year with holiday decorations included to help make their surroundings a little more home like.
Checks may be written to the Bear Lake Promoters and mailed to Gloria Edwards, P. O. Box 224, Bear Lake, Mi 49614 and items may be dropped off at her home at the corner of Main and Wise Sts. Bear Lake. For additional information, contact Pauline at pjaquish@coslink.net .
The women will tell their story Thursday, September 18 at the WERC luncheon to be held from 11:45 – 1:15 at the Tuscan Grille on River Street in Manistee. Cost is $10. RSVP to manisteewomen @ yahoo.com. Please also bring an item to two to include in their next shipment.
To sponsor a luncheon, contact the Women’s Economic Resource Center at manisteewomen @yahoo.com. The luncheons are a program of WERC. For more information visit the WERC website at www.manisteewerc.org. The mission of WERC is to support the professional development and leadership of women and girls.

Caroil Atkins / Sharron Lemmer Book Now Available

Carol Atkins' newest collection of poetry is now available. Titled Rainstorms and Fairies, the book contains 42 of Carol's poems with companion photography by Sharron Lemmer. See www.sharolbooks.com for more information. Rainstorms and Fairies can be purchased locally at: MacBeth & Co. – 8011 First Street, OnekamaMoving Spirit – 429 River Street, ManisteeRiver Street Gallery – 384 River Street, ManisteeThe Bookmark – 348 River Street, Manistee Please take note: The book signing on July 19 at River Street Gallery regretfully has been cancelled.

June 19th Luncheon - Leap into a New Venture

MANISTEE – “A Tale of Two Women Who Ventured into Unchartered Territories” will be the topic at the Thursday June 19 Women’s Economic Resource Center netWork luncheon beginning at 11:45 at Manistee Golf and Country Club on Cherry Street in Manistee. The luncheon is sponsored by Filer Credit Union.

Rosalind Jaffe and Sharron Lemmer will share how their leap of faith led both of them to a very cool experience. Roz Jaffe had family and friends tell her for years that she should be a contestant on Jeopardy. She will share the whole adventure from, trying out, being chosen, and actually being LIVE in Hollywood. The best part…. She is ready to try something else that she has never done.

Sharron Lemmer collaborated with local author Carol Atkins to publish a collection of Carol's poetry paired with Sharron’s photography. It all started with Sharron reading and admiring Carol’s poems in The News Advocate. They met, they talked…and this month their book, Rainstorms and Fairies will be available to purchase. Sharron will give a brief overview of the publishing process.

What is pulling on your heart strings? Are you ready to try something you have never done before? Don’t miss this luncheon if you are looking for inspiration to take the Leap into a New Venture.

The mission of WERC is to actively cultivate and support the professional and political development and leadership of women and girls in Manistee County and the surrounding area. The mission will be accomplished through programs of WERC, such as the Women’s netWork luncheons, the Women’s Empowerment Giving Circle, Women’s Business Support, LUNAFEST, Career Mentoring, and Personal Finance.

WERC will also build partnerships with other programs and organizations that are working to provide sustainable livelihoods, political and leadership opportunities and access for women and girls. More information about WERC can be found at the web site www.manisteewerc.org

The luncheon will be held Thursday, June 19 at Manistee Golf and Country Club on Cherry Street in Manistee. Doors open at 11:30 am. The cost is $10 payable at the door. To register send an email to manisteewomen@yahoo.com. This luncheon is sponsored by Filer Credit Union, with two offices in Manistee. If you live, work, or worship in Manistee County, you can now join Filer Credit Union.

“All women are encouraged to attend the luncheons and participate in WERC,” said Crockett. “We hold our regular monthly Women’s netWork luncheons on the third Thursday of each month. WERC board meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month.”

Congratulations Carol Atkins

Manistee held its fourth annual Athena Awards at Manistee Golf and Country Club today, Wednesday, May 7, 2008. Carol Atkins was the recipient of the award at a luncheon filled with community members and supporters.

The ATHENA Award Program was created in 1982 by ATHENA Founder Martha Mayhood Mertz through her partnership with the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. The program was developed to recognize and honor outstanding business and professional individuals for excellence in their chosen field, for providing valuable service to their community, and for actively assisting women in their attainment of professional goals and leadership skills.

By honoring exceptional leaders, the ATHENA Award Program seeks to inspire others to achieve excellence and to improve the quality of life for others in the community.

Carol was a natural fit for this prestigeous recognition. A playwright, newspaper columnist, journalist, poet, historian, and activist, Carol has been a tireless champion of women's rights and she has been a supporter of the National Organization for Women (NOW) since its inception in 1966.

Carol is a member of the Women's Economic Resource Center and she was the keynote speaker at our annual meeting. We are so honored to have Carol among us, mentoring us, and continuing to pave the way for equality for all people. Bless you Carol and Congratulations.

LUNAFEST May 10, 2008 in Manistee

MANISTEE - - - The Women’s Economic Resource Center will host their third annual LUNAFEST Film Festival Saturday May 10th at 6:30pm at the Historic Ramdsell Theater in Manistee. These international award-winning films tackle issues of war, death, homelessness, happiness, homosexuality, family ties, women in sports competition, cosmetic surgery, and motherhood.
“This film festival features nine short films by, for, and about women,” said Judy Crockett from the Women’s Economic Resource Center. “These films celebrate and inspire women through the art of film and community fundraising. If you love good films, you will love LUNAFEST, men and women alike.”
How important is a birthday cake? Make a Wish is a 12-minute film about a young Palestinian girl who will do whatever it takes to buy a birthday cake. This film has a surprise ending.
My Other Mother deals with the issue of crib death, or “cot” death as it is known in Africa. When her baby sister dies, Margo’s other mother shows her how to grieve.
In the two-minute animated Mrs. Ana, homeless Mrs. Ana is the seller of medicinal plants in Medellin, Columbia. She shares the joys and hardships of her life along with her love of strawberries.
For some women, buying new shoes brings happiness. Seventy-one percent of women would buy more shoes if they could afford to, and fifty percent acknowledge they sacrifice comfort for style. Director Sophie Barthes from New York introduces us to Iwona, who buys a box of Happiness at a strange discount store and has to decide what to do with it.
Keeping a secret for some means hiding a part of themselves. For Katrin, keeping her secret means leaving her native Iceland, in this whimsical tale of family secrets, only to return to find hers is not the only story in the family. Director Isold Uggadottir of New York reveals prejudices of homosexuality in this nineteen-minute film filmed in part in Iceland.
If you have ever been embarrassed by your mother and thought “I’ll never be like her,” then looked in the mirror one day and saw your mother in yourself, you will appreciate the animated work of director Ru Kuwahata. In Daikon Ashi, a young girl struggles with adolescent rebellion and the reality of family ties.
Women were excluded from the original Olympic Games, so in 776 B.C. they formed their own games, The Games of Hera, honoring the Greek goddess of women and earth. Women were formally allowed to join Olympic competition in 1900. Breaking Boundaries: The Sondra Van Ert Story is a documentary of female athlete’s determination and success by Director Jennifer Grace of Bozeman, Montana.
Movies, magazines, and commercial advertising tell women beauty is attainable through cosmetic surgery, lotions, and creams. Award-winning director Jesse Erica Epstein tells a male dancer’s comical story about his prominent nose and the effect it has on his career in The Guarantee.
The final film in the nine-film LUNAFEST Film Festival is only three minutes in length. Screened in Turkey, Australia, and Los Angels, Pockets is directed by Sophia Ohara. In this animated short film, a pocket becomes an abstract metaphor for the journey of motherhood.
Of the top 250 grossing films of 2005, only 17% of all directors, executive producers, writers, cinematographers, and editors were women. In 2005, only 7% of film directors were women. LUNAFEST highlights the contributions of women to film. To learn more about the films and the stories behind them, visit www.lunafest.org.
“This is the third LUNAFEST Film Festival we have held in Manistee,” said Crockett. “Each year, we are more impressed with the captivating intellect, humor, and story-telling of these short films. WERC is proud to sponsor this festival and celebrate the work of these writers, directors, and producers, and to bring a program of this quality to our communities. Men and women alike with appreciate this event.”
Tickets for the film festival are $25 and are available at Wahr Hardware, Goody’s Juice and Java, and Suvi Boutique in Manistee and at Closson’s Jewelry in Ludington. The cost of admission includes the film festival, as well as a cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres social following the films. Doors open at 6:30pm. The films begin at 7:00pm and the social follows at 8:30pm. The event will be held at the Historic Ramsdell Theater on Maple Street in Manistee.
LUNAFEST net proceeds benefit the Breast Cancer Fund as well as the local Women’s Economic Resource Center Giving Circle Fund at the Manistee County Community Foundation.
LUNAFEST is a program of WERC. For more information visit the WERC website at www.manisteewerc.org. The mission of WERC is to support the professional development and leadership of women and girls.

Career- Mentoring Scholarships Awarded

MANISTEE – Participants in the WERC Career-Mentoring program will be recognized at the Thursday May 15 Women’s Economic Resource Center netWork luncheon beginning at 11:45 at Manistee Golf and County Club on Cherry Street in Manistee. This program of WERC was created to match high school aged girls with women working in professional fields, giving the girls an opportunity to experience a career path before college.

Certificates of Completion, including the first $250 scholarships awarded by WERC, are being awarded to:
-Megan O'Brien
Mentoring Program: Public Service
Senior, Manistee High School
(She completed the program during her sophomore year.)
Mentor: Janice McCraner, Manistee County Commissioner
College: Central Michigan University

-Kathrine Russell
Mentoring Program: Architecture
Senior, Brethren High School/KND
(She completed the program during her sophomore year.)
Mentor: Kendra Thompson, Kendra C. Thompson Architects, P.C.
College: Grand Valley State University

The current mentor/mentee participant will be awarded a certificate of completion at the June luncheon. Attorney Jane Johnson was the mentor for student Ashley Fraley, from Brethren High School/KND. Ashley’s area of interest is law.

Past career-mentors included a nurse practitioner and a chemical engineer.

WERC is finalizing mentors for the 2008-2009 academic school year and will be notifying county school counselors soon. Applications will be made available to interested students in early September.

“Scholarship dollars for this program are from the WERC Giving Circle Endowment Fund at the Manistee County Community Foundation. This fund was started in December, 2005 with initial dollars raised by the Women’s netWork,” said Kendra Thompson, WERC Scholarship Chair. “We encourage the community to support this fund so that we are able to expand the scholarship program.”
In addition to the Giving Circle Fund, WERC will also build partnerships with other programs and organizations that are working to provide sustainable livelihoods, political and leadership opportunities and access for women and girls. More information about WERC can be found at the web site www.manisteewerc.org

LUNAFEST Film Festival Sat May 10 2008 Manistee

The Women's Economic Resource Center will be hosting LUNAFEST Saturday May 10, 2008 at the Historic Ramsdell Theatre on Maple Street in Manistee. Everyone is invited to attend.

Filled with stories of reflection and whimsy, hope and humor, grace and perseverance, LUNAFEST films are renowned for celebrating the talents and stories of women. Our films include many off the traditional “festival circuit.” Collectively, LUNAFEST films captivate audiences, compel dialogue and arm those who participate with both the knowledge and the motivation to make a difference in their communities.

LUNAFEST’s films have won industry awards and audience accolades, and the films selected for 2007-08 LUNAFEST share this brilliance. From quirky animation to touching documentaries, the 9 selected films are incredibly diverse in both style and subject matter, united by a common thread of exceptional storytelling by…for…about women.

Watch the film trailers at http://www.lunafest.org/

Doors open at 6:30. Films start at 7:00pm and run until 8:30pm. Following the films, join us in Hardy Hall for complimentary desserts and cocktails and conversation.

Tickets are $25. They are available at the door, at Wahr Hardware, Suvi's and the CVB in Manistee or at Closson's Jewelry in Ludington.

Proceeds benefit breast cancer research, WERC, and the WERC Giving Circle Fund at the Manistee County Community Foundation.

RSVP NOW for April 17th Luncheon

RSVP NOW for April 17th luncheon featuring

Elizabeth Thompson of the Michigan Women's Commission Topic: Status of Women in Michigan report update. Important information to help with better understanding women in several categories: employment and economic status; political leadership; health, rights, and demographics. Very good stuff....

Thurs April 17 11:45-1:15 $10 at the door Manistee Golf and Country Club Cherry Street Manistee

RSVP to manisteewomen@yahoo.com

Welcome Back!

With so much going on with the Women's netWork and with formation of the Women's Economic Resource Center (WERC) ...some things...like this blog...took a backseat. It's time to reactivate the blog and to get conversations going about various topics and issues that impact women in our region. We invite you each to share your thoughts, ideas, programs, information...anything you think would be of value to women in the professional development and leadership arena.

Welcome Back. Upcoming Events:

We have lots of great programs the next few months to help you with your businesses and personal growth. Important Dates to Remember: Print and Save - - SHARE with others

Thursday April 17 11:45-1:15 Luncheon featuring Elizabeth Thompson, Michigan Woman's Commission - - Manistee Golf and County Club $10Elizabeth will provide important information about the status of women in Michigan...Women make most of the financial decisions in their household; they are important to your business...understand them better...attend this luncheon. RSVP manisteewomen@yahoo.com

Saturday May 3rd 9:00am-4:00pm Zonta's Zest for Living Day Devoted to Women - -WSCC Tech Center Atrium - -Keynote Speaker: Denise Ann Taylor - -Denise was a very popular speaker at the netWork luncheon last year - - - Breakout session, booths

Monday, May 5th 5:30 pm - - -SBA Financial Round Table Tuscan Grille - - River Street, Manistee - - $35 included dinner -- RSVP manisteewomen@yahoo.com Space is limited so that you can receive personal attention and have your questions answered.

Wednesday May 7th Noon - - Athena Luncheon $15 Manistee Golf and County Club - - poster attached Saturday

May 10th 6:30 pm LUNAFEST - - film festival, cocktails, desserts, social, Ramsdell Theater tickets $25 includes everything Poster attached Sponsorships available. This makes a great date night or gift for Mom. Take a preview look at the films at http://www.lunafest.org/

Thursday June 19 Luncheon -- 11:45 - 1:15 Our own Roz Jaffe will talk about her experiences taking a big chance and stretching herself. Manistee Golf and County CLub $10

Thursday May 15 Luncheon 11:45 - 1:15pm featuring Pat Travis - - inspirational, motivational...educational Pat has been one of the lesser know or seen inspriational women in our county....Manistee Golf and County Club $10

Friday July 11 Rally for a Cure Golf Outing at Manistee National....would you like to be a hole sponsor? Sponsors are encouraged to have an activity and personal contact on the hole they sponsor - - that's good for your business!


RSVP events: manisteewomen@yahoo.com

New Events Coming Up

Nomination forms for the third annual Manistee County ATHENA Award are now available at the Chamber office and on the website at http://www.manisteecountychamber.com/ATHENANominationForm2007.htm. The deadline is March 31 to nominate someone who has impacted Manistee County by demonstrating excellence, creativity and initiative in their business or profession; providing valuable service to improve the quality of life for others in Manistee County ; and assisting Manistee County women in reaching their full leadership potential. The ATHENA Award program, part of the Celebrating Women Festival, will be held at noon on Wednesday, May 9 at noon at the Manistee Golf and Country Club. In this photo, 2006 keynote speaker Lyn Myers, former head of General Motors’ Pontiac-GMC Division, admires the ATHENA sculpture received by Betty Noteware.


Make plans now to get together for the second annual LUNAFEST to be held Saturday May 12th as part of the Celebrating Women Festival. Check out all the films online that will be shown during this film festival. The festival will be held at the Ramsdell Theater. Tickets will be $25. Jo Hall from Ron Ringel Real Estate is this year's Chair.

MARCH LUNCHEON: Camille Kocsis will host the March 15th Women's netWork luncheon at the Tuscan Grille from 11:15 - 1:15. She will be talking about the "Laws of Attraction" and she will get us prepared to view the DVD "The Secret" The netWork will host a free showing of "The Secret" on Friday evening, March 23rd at the United Methodist Church on First Street in Manistee. This will be a family event...not for women only!

More details about all these events will follow.

Be your best - -

Salute to Andrea Parhamovich

A heroic American woman who worked to expand democracy in Iraq was killed in Baghdad last week. Andrea Parhamovich, a 28-year-old from Ohio who traveled to Iraq to work for the National Democratic Institute (NDI), had just finished leading a training seminar for Sunni politicians, when her armed convoy was ambushed. She and three bodyguards were killed. Andi, as she was known by her friends and colleagues, will be remembered for her idealism, bravery, and positive spirit.

We bring you her story because in a matter of months, Andi was slated to take on the new role of training Iraqi women to increase their political involvement. A tragedy like Andi's makes us realize how much we take for granted when we talk about gender-parity and advancing women's leadership in America. Andi risked her life doing work that we talk about every week.

Last summer, several Iraqi government officials who were in the US to learn about democracy, came to our office. Out of a group of eight, there was one woman, and we learned that during the legislators' three-week visit to the states, not a single meeting had focused on women. Halfway through the trip, she requested a tutorial on women's leadership, which led the group to The White House Project. Over the course of an afternoon we presented the case for women's leadership to a largely skeptical audience. Although quotas in Iraq now guarantee women's involvement in government, in the years since the Gulf War, women had very few rights at all. At the table sat one very brave woman who epitomized what it means to step up and lead.

Andi worked so that Iraqi women like the one that came to our office could lead in her community and in her life. Here and abroad, work is underway to change the status quo so that women can have a greater stake in government. The White House Project would like to honor Andi by bringing you her story, and by reminding you how important it is for women to lead—both because we have the freedom to do so, and because strong women, as consensus-builders, collaborators, and listeners, are much needed during a time of war.

We admire Andi's belief that she could create change in such a violent and unstable environment. We hope you will remember her fearlessness and courage as a young woman leader.

Sincerely,
The White House Project

Denise Anne Taylor to Speak January 18 2007

Happy New Year!
The Women's netWork is busy lining up incredible speakers for 2007.

Jan 18th 2007 11:30 - 2:00pm Tuscan Grille Downtown Manistee $10
Yes! This is longer than usual! Mark your calendar now.

Speaker:
Denise Anne Taylor/CEO/Owner
Competitive Advantage, Inc.
www.passportforsuccess.com
Sponsored in full by Members Credit Union THANK YOU!!!!!

Professional Development Skills-Business Etiquette
"Your bottom-line is a result of your frontline...who is on your frontline?

Business etiquette is simply another tool that will empower an individual
to move with ease and confidence in any business setting.
An excellent program for anyone looking to set herself apart from the competition.

Learning outcomes from this speaker:
1. Project a more professional image
2. Offer more refined customer service
3. Communicate more effectively
4. Project increased confidence in business situations

Overview:
1. Refine you business communication skills
2. Demonstrate appropriate business behaviors
3. Conversations skills
4. Non verbal/eye contact
5. Total Quality Issues in the business arena
6. How to make an entrance and work the room
7. The fine art of the handshake

Thank you MEMBERS CREDIT UNION for sponsoring this speaker.
What a great way for the netWork to kick off the new year!

See you on the 18th
RSVP to manisteewomen@yahoo.com

Bob Proctor Friday Story - The Secret

Here is your Friday story,

Your Wish Is My Command!

I am gong to take a little idea from The Secret - and expand upon it - and also introduce a principle to those of you who haven't yet seen The Secret. I recommend that you do see it as soon as possible!

OK - here's the principle: That each and every thought you have is actually heard by your very own genie!

Stick with me here - because I do understand just how challenging this suggestion might be to some of you. I'm asking you to look at this light-heartedly - as it doesn't have to shake your foundations completely - it can be absorbed in a light-hearted way - and used in the same manner.

We've all been getting told for years to "be careful what you ask for - you just might get it"!

Some of us have been told this in a light hearted way; some in the form of a joke; some in the form of reference to prayer in a religious sense; and some in a very serious way. Whichever way we tend to view this - it is in itself part of the relationship we have with our genie... our thought processes.

The Law of Attraction which is the main focus of The Secret, is about owning what we create within our lives - and taking responsibility for our thoughts and understanding just how powerful they can be.

OK - the genie principle.

I truly believe that if each of us can embrace the simple idea that we have a friendly genie paying attention to each and every thought we have - then we will learn to grasp in a light-hearted way that we do actually create our own results in life.

If we can imagine that each thought (and our verbalizing of those thoughts) is being heard, and responded to like this; "OK - your wish is my command"! "I'll get right onto that for you"!

Whether the thoughts and words we use are positive - or negative - the results will be in alignment with those thoughts and words. Too many sages down through the ages and into the present have been agreeing on this for too long for it not to be true!

Remember - the votes have been unanimous for centuries!

What we think - we will manifest!
What we think - we will become!

What we think - we will continue to think - unless we take action to change our habitual thinking.

Thinking that has been put there by life; by our experiences in life; by other people who have had the same thought patterns put there by life; by their experiences in life; and by other people in their lives... and so it goes. Generations of thoughts which have created reality for millions of people - have been passed down to us.

Right now we all have a choice: To continue living under other people's opinions passed down to us about life; or to embrace change here and now and begin to create our own positive thoughts based upon a few pinnacle principles...

Unconditional Love; Abundance; Forgiveness; Spiritual Awareness; Inner Peace (which will spread to your community, then to your state, then to your country, and eventually globally); Deserving; Kindness; and Mind/Body/Spirit balance.

Of course there are other pinnacle principles on which to base new thoughts and ideas - but those just given above are some of the main ones necessary for each of us to manifest abundance, good health, a balanced lifestyle, peace and happiness in our lives.

I am very aware that many of you reading this will already be relating to your own genie as being God, and of course I encourage and respect that thought process, and the feelings surrounding those beliefs. My reasoning in writing this is to encourage a light-hearted aspect to our relationship with our thought processor.

A genie is something that most of us can actually visualize - so being capable of visualizing someone taking notes - then acting on those notes - is one slightly different way to view the importance of how our thoughts turn into reality!

May you and your genie have a sensational week together.

Remember: "What others do or say is their stuff; how we react, or not, is our stuff"!

© Phil Evans

Phil Evans is a Motivator, Business Coach and Inspirational Writer based in Australia. You can visit his website at: www.peoplestuff.com.au or feel free to email Phil with your comments on his story at: phil@peoplestuff.com.au

League of Women Voters Position on Proposals

League Opposes Ballot Proposals 2 and 5
The League of Women Voters (LWV) has taken positions opposing both
Proposal 06-2, the anti-affirmative action proposal, and Proposal 06-5,
known as the "K-16" school funding proposal. Although the LWV never
supports or opposes candidates for elected office, it does take
positions on selected public policy issues.

Proposal 06-2:  The LWV continues to support affirmative action. It has
become clear that the term "affirmative action" is widely
misunderstood.  It is NOT the selection of an unqualified female or
minority over other candidates who are qualified.  In fact, federal
regulations explicitly prohibit that. Affirmative action addresses this
question: Who gets the job (contract, placement) among a number of
qualified candidates when there are more QUALIFIED applicants than
positions? Affirmative action is about expanding options for women and
minorities; it is about inclusion, not exclusion. It is a tool to
promote fair decision-making, not about unfair preferences.

Affirmative action programs counteract continuing injustice caused by
discrimination in education, hiring and contracting.  Will such
injustice disappear if affirmative action disappears?  No, rather, one
way of addressing inequality will be lost. The LWV believes that
Proposal 2 supporters are not acting in the best interests of
Michigan's citizens.  We urge a NO vote on Proposal 06-2.

Proposal 6-05:  The League of Women Voters has traditionally supported
adequate funding for education and recognizes the serious financial
problems faced by our public education system.  However, LWVMI 
believes that Proposal 5 is not the appropriate solution.

LWV opposition to Proposal 5 is based primarily on the premise that
earmarking revenues or prioritizing expenses in the state's
constitution for specific purposes is unwise. The League opposed a
similar proposal in 2002 that would have earmarked the tobacco
settlement revenue for health care programs. Senate Fiscal Agency
analysis shows that if this proposal passes, there would be an
immediate mandated increase to the overall state education budget of
$566 million. The recent state budget included an increase to schools
without this proposal. The question is whether school funding levels
should remain within the control of the Legislature as they adopt the
state budget from year to year, or whether school funding increases
should be taken out of their control.

LWV is not abandoning support and advocacy for adequate funding and
better schools.  However, the mandated increase will mean less money
for everything else unless the Legislature raises taxes.  Either state
money will be shifted from non-mandated school programs (such as adult
education, school readiness or middle school math grants), or other
areas the state supports such as social services and public safety will
be cut, or perhaps both will be required for the Legislature to balance
the state budget.

Sixty-eight percent of the projected first year increase would be a new
mandated state funding of the teacher retirement system (MPSERS).  The
mandate in what the state will be obligated to pay to the MPSERS will
make that growing expense a priority over other state budget items for
the foreseeable future.  Adequate support for schools and state budget
priorities are issues that must continually be addressed.  Creating
mandates without creating mandated revenue is not fiscally
responsible.  The League urges citizens to vote NO on Proposal 6-05.

************************

Michigan League For Human Services

Candidate Questions 2006

1. Medicaid is a state/federal partnership that provides health care
services to 1.5 million persons
in Michigan, 1.1 million of whom receive no cash benefits from the
state, they simply need
health care coverage. The Medicaid program has become the health care
program for low-
income families, disabled persons, and the elderly who do not have
access to, or cannot afford
private medical care coverage. Polls find strong support for the
program time and time again.
Would you be willing to advocate for resources, and if so, what
specific actions would you take
to maintain and strengthen this critical program.

2. There are currently between 800,000 and 1.1 million uninsured
persons in this state. Families
USA, in 2005, issued a report that indicates that employers in Michigan
pay $274/individual
and $730/family in increased premiums to offset the cost ofhealthcare
for the uninsured. Do
you believe it is in Michigan's best interest to pursue programs that
reduce the number of
uninsured in the state and reduce the added burden on businesses? Would
you actively support
the Governor's proposed Michigan First Healthcare Plan to reduce the
number of uninsured
people in Michigan? Specify why or why not. What other approach(es)
would you take to
reduce the number of uninsured in Michigan?

3. Between 2000 and 2004, child poverty in Michigan escalated by 29
percent, according to the
latest national Kids Count report. Roughly one of every five children
in the state lives in a
family with income below the poverty line - under $20,000 for a family
of four. Please outline
at least three strategies you would recommend to respond to the
increase and level of child
- poverty in Michigan.

4. Every day three babies die in Michigan. In the latest Kids Count
national report, Michigan
ranked 43rd among the 50 states with one of the ten highest infant
mortality rates in the country.
Recognizing the seriousness of this situation, please outline two
appropriate policy responses to
improve the state's infant mortality rate.

5. The rate of children confirmed as victims of abuse or neglect rose
by 43 percent in Michigan
between 1995 and 2004, according to the Kids Count in Michigan data
book. Most child
victims suffer from neglect rather than abuse. What role should the
state play in preventing
child abuse or neglect? What three policy options would you promote to
address prevention?

6. Many children in Michigan do not have access to quality early
childhood education programs
even though research has resoundingly demonstrated the critical and
long-term impact of the
environment and relationships in a child's early years. In some states
universal preschool
programs for four-year-olds have been instituted. What are some of the
strategies you would
use to improve access to quality early childhood programs for all
children?

7. Because the value of the federal minimum wage has eroded
substantially over the past ten
years, the Michigan legislature recently voted to raise Michigan's
minimum wage. Please
explain your philosophy on minimum wage. How often should it be
increased in order to keep
pace with inflation? Should Michigan enact a higher minimum wage when
the federal one
becomes inadequate? If you do not believe in minimum wage at all, what
else can the state do
to ensure that workers are paid adequately for their work?

8. The federal earned income tax credit has been shown to be an
effective poverty-fighting tool,
allowing low-income Michigan residents to pay less in federal taxes and
giving a boost to local
economies. Yet many of those same Michigan workers pay far more in
state taxes than do low-
income workers in many other stales. Would you support a state earned
income tax credit for
Michigan's low-income workers, even if it means foregoing some tax cuts
for wealthy
Michigan residents?

9. Most people agree that the best way for individuals and families to
escape poverty is by having
a job that pays them enough to meet their needs. Yet many full-time
workers remain in poverty
because they do not have the skills necessary to progress to higher
paying employment. Given
that skill-building is a key to leaving poverty, what strategies would
you use to make it easier
for welfare recipients to access training that would give them
marketable skills? In what
situations should welfare recipients be allowed to substitute such
training for work?

10. Many poor and low-income workers live far from where they work, and
lack of adequate
transportation makes it difficult from many of them to get and keep a
job. This is the case in
many rural areas, and also in the city of Detroit. Please discuss
specific ways you would
address this problem.

11. As you know, there is an array of state-funded public services for
Michigan's low-income and
poor families. These services provide an important safety net for such
families; they have
dramatically improved outcomes for children and have even saved lives.
When state revenues
are low, as they are now, would you be willing to cut the funding for
any social services
programs in order to balance the budget? If so, which program funds
would you cut, and by
how much?

12. The Headlee amendment to Michigan's constitution limits state
revenues to no more than 9.5
percent of personal income. The proposed Stop OverSpending (SOS)
constitutional
amendment, if adopted, would effectively replace the Headlee revenue
limit with a spending
cap starting at approximately 7.5 percent of personal income
(approximately $5 billion below
the Headlee cap), and over time, given the inflation plus population
growth limit, would assure
that the percentage of personal income supporting state services
continued to decline.
Do you support the Stop OverSpending initiative and if so, what
programs would you cut to
offset rapidly increasing health care costs and other public service
costs associated with an
aging population that will clearly outstrip the inflation plus
population growth limit that would
be established under SOS?

PKc:sfai\Candidates Questions 2006.doc/am

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