Judy Crockett

Judy Crockett
Judy Crockett

Monday, February 28, 2011

And Did You Know...?

Michigan Women's Marketplace (MWM)

History

The Michigan Women's Marketplace (www.miwomen.com) MWM, an initiative of the Center for Empowerment & Economic Development (www.miceed.org) CEED, is sponsored by the Small Business Administration (SBA), General Motors, and Comerica Bank.

MWM was designed to help bring women business owners online. The original site was a virtual mall where women sold their products and services through the Marketplace. It was intended that, by having multiple products online, each vendor would receive additional business just because of the traffic – similar to a physical mall.

Over the years, MWM has evolved into a first-class women's information and education site, with multiple partners and associates providing a wealth of information to help maintain and grow our women businesses.

On the site today, you will find:

•The Women's Business Directory, which offers an opportunity for a woman-owned business to register and receive additional business from online visitors looking to do business with women and a wonderful networking opportunity for our women to also work with each other.
•The original Chat sessions have evolved into Webinars, where you will find some outstanding presenters and topics.
•The Training Center, which consists of articles on many business topics, as well as a list of business resources and links for further research.
•Our Photo Gallery will keep you up-to-date on past events.
•Our Calendar of events, including many opportunities from other non-profit organizations across the state of Michigan.

Did you know....?

About Inforum

Inforum is Michigan’s leading business forum for women, with more than 1,800 members from a cross-section of Michigan's business community. The mission of the organization is to strengthen the business environment by creating opportunities for women to lead and succeed. Founded as the Women's Economic Club in 1962 in Detroit, Inforum has affiliates in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and Lansing, Michigan. For more information, visit our website, www.inforummichigan.org or call 877.633.3500.

The Happiness Project Book Review

The Happiness Project, a book written by Gretchen Rubin, is a 'how to' book with a little different approach.

Interestingly enough, happiness is the most sought after human condition. Even our constitution mentions the pursuit of happiness.

What intrigued me about the book is we identify areas we wish to work on, break the list into months, and work on mastering an area each month which makes results somewhat measurable. While goals are specific to each individual, it's amazing how many are common to all. Also interesting are the things that actually contribute to a feeling of well-being that are practical and doable.

For instance:
.clutter drains energy...(so clean up the clutter)
.work is critical to happiness...(so get off the couch)
.change the way you think to change results...(instead of complaining)
.having too many choices can be paralyzing...(so clean the closet)
.unfinished tasks can be disproportionately draining...(too true)

So now on to next month...

This review was provided by Ms. Phyllis Hanna of Manistee.

Carrying a Load

A quote heard at the Oscars:

"It's not the load that wears you down...it's the way you carry it.

- - -Lena Horne

Clarity is Power

“When you are clear, what you want will show up in your life,
and only to the extent that you are clear."
- from The Passion Test

Clarity is power.

It is the power to create the life you choose to live.

The whole purpose of The Passion Test is to give you a level of
clarity that will allow you to create that life.

With clarity, opportunities will present themselves.

You may not know how your ideal life will appear, but you will
be given the chance to learn.

Here is a means for you to create the kind of life and lifestyle
that you wish. It can take you from where you are to where you
would love to be.

If you are clear.

If you are, and you are ready to really follow your passions to
create a fulfilling, prosperous life, then the approach described
in our videos is one we know works.

You deserve a fulfilling, abundant life.

It is our wish for you.

With all our love and appreciation,

Janet and Chris

Janet Bray Attwood and Chris Attwood
Co-authors of the NY Times bestseller,
"The Passion Test - The Effortless Path
to Discovering Your Life Purpose"

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Women Achievers Become Leaders

https://www.inforummichigan.org


Check out this seminar offered throught Inforum Michigan:

March 3: Powering Up: How America’s Women Achievers Become Leaders
Celebrate women who dare to lead.

Join Inforum and author Anne Doyle for a luncheon to launch “Powering Up: How America’s Women Achievers Become Leaders."

About Anne Doyle
As a journalist and auto industry executive, Anne has worked side-by-side with some of the most admired leaders in global business, sports and politics. From global manufacturing plants and executive suites, to the halls of Congress and sports locker rooms, she has been tested and mentored. The lessons Anne has learned have fueled her work as a speaker, media commentator, consultant and workshop leader.

For more about Anne, visit www.annedoylestrategies.com.

Event Details:
Date: Thursday, March 3
Time: 11:30 a.m - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Hyatt Regency Dearborn, 600 Town Center Dr. Dearborn
Cost: $55 for Inforum members and $65 for nonmembers – including a copy of Anne's book

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Activity Breeds Activity

A number of years ago at a real estate training seminar, the trainer told the story of a new agent named Bert who went into the office everyday for three months yet never made a sale or listed a property. His wife had lost her patience with him and finally gave him a deadline: "If you don't make a sale or list a property by the end of the week, you're going to have to go get a real job." So as he had done everyday for the past three months, Bert went into the office on Monday, and on Tuesday, and on Wednesday, each day growing more anxious about the looming deadline and prospect of looking for another job if he could not make a sale or get a listing. On Thursday as he looked out the window and stared at the phone, he was loosing all hope that anything would ever come of his dream to become a successful real estate agent. (An aside here would be the definition of insanity: Doing the same thing over and over expecting different results.)

Bert lay away all night knowing that in the morning, he would go into the office and sit behind his real estate desk for the last time. As he prepared to leave for work that dreadful Friday morning, his wife issued his final warning: "This is it. Today is the last day of your real estate career if you don't write an offer or listing by the end of the day."

As he trudged his way out to the car, briefcase in hand, head held low, thinking about the loss of his dream career became too much for Bert. He suddenly became overwhelmed by the urge to show his wife - and himself - that he could do this. He trained for this. He's dreamt of this his entire life. He was going to make it happen.

Rather than turn into his regular parking spot and make his way into his office, Bert turned into the lot of the local grocery store. He bounced his way into the store and went up to people waiting in line and one by one he asked every person: "Do you or someone you know want to buy or sell a house today?" He asked people in line at the deli counter: "Do you or someone you know want to buy or sell a house today?" He made his way over to people waiting for the butcher: "Do you or someone you know want to buy or sell a house today?"

Next he made his way to the coffee shop and eagerly approached every person and asked them the same question: "Do you or someone you know want to buy or sell a house today?" At the drug store he did the same thing: "Do you or someone you know want to buy or sell a house today?"

As he was waiting in line for a sandwich at the sub shop, he asked every patron the same question: "Do you or someone you know want to buy or sell a house today?" And sure enough, a gentleman waiting for his lunch as well said to Bert: "Actually, I do want to buy a house. I saw a little place and would like to make an offer on it, and would like to sell my present house as well. And because of all of your enthusiasm that I've seen in you here today, I think you are just the person to list the house."

While over the years I have taken many continuing education classes and attended many seminars, this trainer left his mark on me. I vividly remember him telling the story of Bert and still today, when I feel myself slipping into a funk, unable to make the next move or see a possiblity for tomorrow, I remember Bert on the verge of loosing his dream until his activity led him on a path of activity that led to his successful real estate career.

The next time you feel like your business is too slow, or you don't know your next move...do something, do anything. Make a few phone calls. Write a few letters. Stop in to see someone you have not seen in awhile. Talk to people in line. Network. Make connections...you'll quickly find what I learned years ago in that seminar: Activity breeds activity.

Good luck! Now go DO SOMETHING!

Monday, February 21, 2011

Pursue Purpose

Check this out - - -isn't this really what it is all about?

Pursue purpose

“True entrepreneurs will never be satisfied with riches. They have to affect change, and will risk everything to make their vision reality.”
– The Last Blog Post: 5 Lessons I’d Leave Behind by Paul Roetzer, PR 20/20

Snoeshoe Stampede 2011 this Weekend at Manistee National


netWorking takes place in many places - - maybe in every place. Why not do some netWorking outdoors this weekend and raise awareness and support for the Sally Johnson One Good Day Fund as well.

Join the Fight and Rally with us to Stomp Out Cancer.
SNOWSHOE STAMPEDE 2011
STOMP OUT CANCER
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 26TH @ 1:00pm
SNOWSHOE / CROSS COUNTRY SKI EVENT

Your likely sitting at home wondering what the heck you’re going to do, as you look out your window and see snow on the ground, which will not seem to go away. WHY NOT get out of the house and HELP US STOMP OUT CANCER!

We invite you to join us in support of a new winter event that is sure to provide WINTER WELLNESS and FUN with FRIENDS! Our first winter cancer awareness event tagged, Snowshoe Stampede 2011 will take place on Saturday February 26th. We encourage you to participate and invite your friends to join you.

A number of activities will be going on during the day, including the Snowshoe Stampede, Tug of War, 20 Yard Snowshoe Dash and a Chili Cook-Off contest. Additional information is listed on the attached flyer.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Sally K. Johnson's "One Good Day” Fund and Noah’s Angels Relay for Life Team.

Here is the run down and schedule for all of the events. Please feel free to contact Manistee National if you have additional questions or if you are unable to attend and would like to make a donation.

Snowshoe Stampede Chili Cook Off - 11:30am start
No Registration Fee (You may enter more than once if you wish.)
Chili Cook Off Rules
1. All Chili must be cooked and ready for judging by 11:30am. Set up and registration will begin by 1pm at Manistee National in the Hotel
2. We will supply the table, tablecloth, tasting cups, spoons and napkins for everyone.
3. Each pot must be labeled for public as follows: *HOT = Has Hot peppers or spice that makes it hot! *MILD = Not very Hot. *REGULAR = Children and seniors can eat.
4. Please bring all items needed, such as: crock-pots, extension cords, accessories, and other useful items.
5. We will be serving chili until 3:00pm unless we run out early!
6. The public will be making donations to taste and judge all of the Chili entered in the competition.

Please call Manistee National at 231.398.0123 to register! The winner will be announced at 5pm on February 26th and awarded a Trophy and Bragging Rights for 1 year! SIGN UP DEADLINE for this event is February 23, 2011 at 5:00pm.

Snowshoe Stampede - 1:00pm start
Participants will snowshoe or cross country ski around a 2.1 mile packed trail stopping at different stations to answer a multiple choice question. Participants will take a guess on an important question that pertains to this event at each of the stations. Cash prizes will be awarded to participants with the most correct answers following the event.

During the event, participants will have an opportunity to “wet their whistle” at the halfway point of the trail. A fire will be lit and refreshments will be available at the Sand Trap Bar halfway house on Canthooke. Following the “STOMP”, participants will gather at the west fire pit near the Inn for chili judging, snacks and refreshments.

The entry fee for the event will be $20 per person. Entry includes; donation to Sally K. Johnson's "One Good Day” Fund and Noah’s Angels Relay for Life Team, prize money, snacks and two drink tickets, each valid for a non-alcoholic or alcoholic beverage. NO Shoes No Problem. Snowshoe rentals are available in limited quantity, CALL TODAY to reserve a pair. $20 rental fee. SIGN UP DEADLINE for this event is February 23, 2011 at 5:00pm.
Snowshoe Stampede 20 Yard Snowshoe Dash - 3:00pm start
To register for the 20 Yard Snowshoe Dash, contact Manistee National. Entry Fee for the dash is $1 and can be paid the day of the event. To register please call Ian Ziska at, 231.398.0123. SIGN UP DEADLINE for this event is February 23, 2011 at 5:00pm.

Snowshoe Stampede Team Tug of War - 4:00pm start
Tug of War Rules (Double elimination)
1. Teams must consist of 7 people with at least 2 of them being women
2. No wrapping the rope around hands or wrists
3. If a member of your team falls they are disqualified and your team must continue without them.
4. There will be a flag in the middle of the rope once that flag has crossed the designated area the winner will be announced by the Judge.
5. Have FUN !!

Team captain will be in charge of registering team and notifying Manistee National of the other six members of their team.

Tug of War Teams are to be at the designated starting area 10 minutes prior to their start time. Designated times will be given to each captain on February 25th. Captains, please turn in your participation forms along with a team entry fee of $35 ($5.00 per person) no later than February 23rd. Entry forms can be turned in at Manistee National to Ian Ziska or at Dr. Hengy’s Office to Rachel Vasquez. All checks should be made out to Manistee National. SIGN UP DEADLINE for this event is February 23, 2011 at 5:00pm.

To sign up or if you have additional questions about this event, please respond to this email or call the Inn at 231.398-0123.

Participants are asked to meet at the Inn at 11:30am to register. We look forward to seeing you out for what is sure to be a great time with friends.



4797 US 31 South Manistee, MI 49660 231.398.0123 www.ManisteeNational.com

Gardeners Wanted

Ladies if gardening is your passion - -keep reading. One thing we've always said about the netWork, is you choose your passion, we'll help you get the most out of it.

Community Kitchen Kicks Off Plant a Row. Help Fight Hunger.
MANISTEE – Feb. 21, 2011 - The recent spring-like weather has prompted many to begin thumbing their way through seed catalogues, selecting popular and hybrid tomato seeds and other all-time favorites for the upcoming growing season. And as the sun and wind clear away accumulated snow banks from the garden plot, true backyard gardeners are itching to get their hands dirty and are looking for a warm, sunny window fit to germinate seeds. These are just the folks the Manistee Community Kitchen hopes to engage in their new “Plant a Row. Help Fight Hunger.” campaign.

“We’re looking for backyard gardeners as well as large scale farmers to commit to planting an extra row of produce to share with hungry Manistee County families who currently report inadequate consumption of fruits and vegetables,” said Brandon Seng, founder and CEO of the Manistee Community Kitchen. “We’re asking them to do what they love, only do a little bit more of it.”

Participation is easy. Call or email the Community Kitchen to get a commitment form, drop off instructions, and a yard sign that shows your neighbors you are participating in the program. Shop seed catalogues, your local farm store or hardware store, and local greenhouses and select the fruit and vegetable seeds and plants you’d like to grow in your garden.

When your produce is ready to harvest, donate surplus produce at one of the designated drop off sites throughout Manistee County. Check the Community Kitchen website, www.ManisteeKitchen.org, for updated details. Your harvest will be shared with food-insecure families that will greatly benefit from the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor.

“Plant a Row” isn’t a new idea,” said Seng. “Our residents have been sharing garden yields with their families and friends forever. Our initiative simply coordinates the effort to ensure that the hungriest local families gain access to foods growing in Manistee County’s soil. We know we have a lot of backyard gardeners and large scale farmers that are willing to help feed hungry Manistee families with healthy Manistee produce.”

When the spring fever bug bites you, and as you plan the layout of your garden this year, plan to Plant a Row to help fight hunger in Manistee County. To learn more or to register to participate in this county-wide program, contact the Manistee Community Kitchen at www.ManisteeKtichen.org or call 231.357.4334.

Saturday, February 19, 2011

4th Annual West End Ladies Night

While I am not the first to say it, I am a strong believer, that when a few women put their efforts together, anything can be accomplished. This fact is proven again in downtown Manistee as the women on the west end of River Street refuse to give up and roll over during the long, cold, slow, winter months in this Lake Michigan shoreline town.

On Saturday, March 19, 2011, a number of women-owned businesses on the west end of River Street will host their 4th Annual West End Ladies Night Pajama Party from 5-8 pm. They'll have food, drink, great deals and prizes of course. But more than that, I see a group of women with determination, perseverance, and a willingness on their part to turn off the news, forget the economy, and make their own party.

This is what women can do when they join forces for the good of the whole. Each of these women own and operate their own businesses, working long hours and finding their own niches in this quaint Victorian community. It's not easy to eek out a living in a county of 25,000 people, high unemployment, and a high rate of poverty among women and children.

But these women have raised the bar, quit complaining and anted up to carve out individual retail stores highlighting their individual passions against the odds. In February and March, I have to believe they accentuate a "fake it till you make it" attitude that hydrates their spirits until the sunshine and summer residents and tourist return.

The Annual West End Ladies Night Pajama Party takes little effort to organize, really. They simply pull together a few women with "yes" attitudes who do what they say they'll do. They go for it rather than go against it. They posses "can do attitudes."

If you are looking for a mid-winter get-a-way, or if you're in the area, stop down and enjoy the comradery Saturday evening, March 19th in Manistee. You'll find a couple very lovely places to stay on River Street. Plan a girl's night out. You'll meet a few business women who know how to make a party. You might make a few new friends. And you're sure to find a few great shopping deals - - all while shopping in your jammies.

Kudos ladies!