Illinois Federation of Business Women's Club, Inc - Public Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Wendy Lalli) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:43:00 +0000

Four Underused Job Search Tools

By

Wendy Lalli
Public Relations Chair of Downtown Chicago/IFBWC

Every job hunter knows that finding a new job is a job by itself. Of course, there are certain “tools” that can help make landing a job easier. Ask most job seekers to name some job search “tools” they’ll probably mention a resume and cover letter. And, indeed, both of these are necessities when you’re looking for work. The only hitch is that all too often people assume that the same resume and cover letter are suitable for every position they apply for. They’re not. Any more than the same screw driver is appropriate for tightening every screw in your house. (Ever try tightening the screws on your laptop with the same screwdriver you use to hang a curtain rod? Good luck!)

But resumes aren’t the only tools a job hunter should have at the ready. There are several others that many candidates ignore or misuse. Here are some tips on how to make these other tools work for you - not only during a job search but throughout your career.

Business Cards
They are the ultimate career development tool. Totally portable, easily affordable, and appropriate for all occasions and audiences from interviewing at a job fair to meeting your best friend’s new sister-in-law at a birthday party and she just happens to work with the very person you’ve been trying to interview with for the last six months. But here’s the sticky part – if your cards look cheap, dreary, boring, or overdone, they could work against you. Presenting such a card is sort of like wearing designer shoes that aren’t shined or an interview dress that’s badly stained. So make the effort to come up with a card that reflects your professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail.

The purpose of business cards is to make it easy for people to: (1)remember you and what you do and (2) get in touch with you again. They should always provide at least two ways (e-mail and phone) for someone to contact you. If you also list your Web site and your LinkedIn URL on the card, every recipient will be able to pull up your resume, work samples, testimonials, and photo immediately (assuming you've completed your Linkedin profile). What could be more convenient than that or a more effective way to sell your professional skills?

Vista Print (http://www.vistaprint.com/) is one resource that gives you lots of design options, good service, and reasonable prices. They even let you insert your own logo or design elements on the cards. Staples, Office Max, and Office Depot are other resources you could look into – not to mention your local printing shop.

Presentation Portfolios
Anyone who works in advertising regards her portfolio of samples or “book” as her most essential job hunting tool. For writers and art directors their books clearly demonstrate the level of their talent and the breadth of their experience. Account executives and production managers also use books to showcase their contribution to an ad campaign's success. But what if you’re not in advertising? Well, if you’re job hunting you are definitely marketing something – your skills and experience! And a portfolio is a great way to help interviewers appreciate what you’ve done in the past and may be able to do for them in the future.

What do you show? If you’re in management or sales you can present any document that demonstrates how you enhanced the success and profitability of your company. For example, you could include graphs showing how your department grew, sales soared, or productivity rose due to your efforts. Also thank you notes from clients and internal supervisors or perhaps a photo of your department accepting an internal award for achievement. How about internal documents you worked on to increase the efficiency of your staff? Assuming these aren't confidential, you could present a new review form you created or brand guidelines that you initiated. Then there are those white papers you contributed to, RFPs you worked on, materials from marketing or sales campaigns you oversaw. Ideally, you should be able to present a visual aid to talk about most of the achievements on your resume. This will help you discuss them more effectively and reinforce your achievements in the interviewer’s mind. This is just Marketing 101. Visualization sells products and it can also help you “sell” yourself as a candidate.

Electronic Samples
To expand the value of your portfolio, create an electronic version by scanning in the contents and storing them on your desktop. Add cover pages to each file explaining what the project was, what your objective was, what you actually did on the project, and the result of your efforts. These files can then be sent as email attachments along with your resume and cover letter.

You don’t necessarily want to submit these samples every time you send out your resume. However, if you’re applying for a specific job and your samples are a clear demonstration of your previous success doing something similar, they’ll help increase the likelihood of your getting an interview. (By the way, recruiters LOVE these samples because they make the job of selling you to their clients much easier.) Note: Please remember that with any document you post online, it can be shared with the entire world including your former employer and colleagues. So be careful to always tell the truth about what you did and how successful it was - without exaggeration.

Thank You Notes
I know, I know. I sound just like your mother! Well, it may be old fashioned and seem silly, but sending a handwritten note within a few days of interviewing is a very valuable job search tool. Here’s why: people hire people they like and no one likes or wants to work with someone who’s selfish, inconsiderate, and full of their own self-importance.

When you send a thank you note you immediately identify yourself as a person who is well-mannered and appreciative of the interviewer’s time. Call it buttering up if you like, but in the grownup world it’s how civilized adults behave. Show the interviewer what a pleasure you'd be to work with by sending a personal note. If you’re the only candidate who does so, you’ll stand out just that little bit more. And if all the other candidates sent one, you’re not doing so will definitely count against you.

Wendy Lalli is a freelance marketing and corporate communications writer who also coaches professionals in transition or on the job. She has written career advice columns for the Chicago Tribune, 25 newspapers in the Chicago Sun Times network, and various online educational sites. Visit www.wendylallicoach.com to learn more about her coaching activities and www.wendylalli.com to see examples of electronic portfolio presentations.

A Holiday Treat: Year-end Tax Tips For a more Prosperous New Year

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:27:00 +0000

By Wendy Lalli

Public Relations Chair of Downtown Chicago IFBWC

We thought that this time of year would be the perfect moment to offer our members some tips on how to save on their taxes. So we turned to Martrice Caldwell of M Caldwell Enterprises (martrice.caldwell@gmail.com) CPA and a new member of the Illinois Federation of Business Women's' Clubs to help us. Here are some strategies* Martrice suggests can help lighten your 2011 tax burden and make your future a bit more secure.

Defer Income

Just contribute a bit extra to your 401(k) or SIMPLE plan. The money you put aside is that much less Uncle Sam can tax now and it will add that much more to your retirement income and your peace of mind.
Contribute to a flexible spending arrangement (FSA) for expenses you anticipate incurring for healthcare and childcare. The money is put in an escrow fund and the government can't tax it. Yet when you need to pay a medical bill or for childcare you can withdrawal it from this fund. Caution: FSAs have a use it or lose it feature. If you don't spend your full contribution, the money is lost; it doesn't carry over to the next year. So make sure you work out just how much you're likely to spend on health and childcare than contribute that amount to a FSA.

Accelerate Income

Taxpayers should plan ahead for long awaited tax changes that may occur in 2013. To prepare for these changes consider:

Asking your employer to pay out bonuses in 2011 instead of next year
Selling off stocks and other investments with taxable gains in 2011 instead of next year to absorb capital loss carryovers or to lock in gains at the 15% rate
Converting pretax retirement savings to a Roth account to lock in a known tax liability.

Accelerate your Deductions

Pay tax deductible expenses in 2011 instead of 2012, such as medical bills, charity donations and property tax.
Sell off stocks and other investments that have lost value so you can take the losses on your 2011 return.
Pay January mortgage in December.
If you have a home office, deduct a percentage of your house expenses utilities and water. (Consult with a tax specialist like Martrice to find exactly what percentage of these expenses is appropriate for you.)

Defer Deductions

Put off paying your medical bills, charity donations, property taxes, and other expenses that are deductible until early next year.
Consider funding a Roth IRA instead of a tax deductible traditional IRA. By forgoing the deduction, you'll be locking in a known tax rate on your contribution in return for tax free investment returns.

Claim Tax Credits

Get Credit for Making Your Home Energy Efficient or Buying Energy Efficient Products. Go on this link for more information http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=237190,00.html

American Opportunity Tax Credit

Note: This program was supposed to end in 2010 but it has been extended for an additional two years through December 2012 by the Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2010. It enables more parents and students to qualify for, the American Opportunity Tax Credit, to pay for college expenses. For details click here: http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=205674,00.html.

Pay Attention to Expiring Current Provisions

Classroom expense deduction expires at end of 2011. Teachers can deduct up to $250 for books, supplies and other expenses related to their classroom until then.
Mortgage insurance premiums can still be deducted for 2011. But this is scheduled to be the last year for this deduction.
Sales tax deduction will also end in 2011. This is an optional itemized deduction that can be taken instead of the deduction for state and local income taxes paid.
Deductions for college tuition expire at the end of 2011. But if you pay for classes starting early in 2012 before the end of 2011, you can still deduct up to $4,000 on your 2011 tax return.
Mass Transit Fringe Benefit Reduced. For 2011, the tax free exclusion for mass transit fringe benefits was set at $230 per month and was the same amount for tax free parking benefits. The 2012 amount for mass transit benefits eligible for tax free treatment will only be $125 per month; while the parking benefit amount will be set at $240 per month.

Hope this helps you save some money this year and next for a happier and more prosperous holiday!

Wendy Lalli is a freelance marketing and public relations writer who also coaches professionals in transition or seeking career advice (www.wendylallicoach.com). She writes marketing and corporate communications for ad agencies, banks, and businesses as well as copy content, articles, and blogs for Web sites, newspapers, magazines, businesses, and nonprofit associations. Her web site is www.wendylalli.com.

M Caldwell Enterprises is one of the leading firms in Chicago providing quality, personalized financial guidance to local individuals and businesses. It offers a variety of services including basic tax management, accounting services and financial statement compilations. Combining expertise, experience and the team mentality of its staff, M Caldwell assures that every client receives the close analysis and attention they deserve. The company's dedication to high standards, hiring of seasoned tax professionals, and work ethic is the reason clients return year after year.

*To the extent the preceding message contains written advice relating to a Federal tax issue, the written advice is not intended or written to be used, and it cannot be used by the recipient or any other taxpayer, for the purposes of avoiding Federal tax penalties, and was not written to support the promotion or marketing of the transaction or matters discussed herein.

noreply@blogger.com (Wendy Lalli) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 19:57:00 +0000

A Holiday Treat: Year-end Tax Tips
For a more Prosperous New Year

By
Wendy Lalli
Public Relations Chair of Downtown Chicago IFBWC

We thought that this time of year would be the perfect moment to offer our members some tips on how to save on their taxes. So we turned to Martrice Caldwell of M Caldwell Enterprises (martrice.caldwell@gmail.com) - CPA and a new member of the Illinois Federation of Business Womens’ Clubs to help us. Here are some strategies* Martrice suggests can help lighten your 2011 tax burden and make your future a bit more secure.

Defer Income

-Just contribute a bit extra to your 401(k) or SIMPLE plan. The money you put aside is that much less Uncle Sam can tax now and it will add that much more to your retirement income - and your peace of mind.

-Contribute to a flexible spending arrangement (FSA) for expenses you anticipate incurring for healthcare and childcare. The money is put in an escrow fund and the government can’t tax it. Yet when you need to pay a medical bill or for childcare you can withdrawal it from this fund. Caution: FSAs have a use-it-or-lose-it feature. If you don't spend your full contribution, the money is lost; it doesn't carry over to the next year. So make sure you work out just how much you’re likely to spend on health and childcare than contribute that amount to a FSA.

Accelerate Income

Taxpayers should plan ahead for long-awaited tax changes that may occur in 2013. To prepare for these changes consider:

-Asking your employer to pay out bonuses in 2011 instead of next year

-Selling off stocks and other investments with taxable gains in 2011 instead of next year to absorb capital loss carryovers or to lock-in gains at the 15% rate

-Converting pre-tax retirement savings to a Roth account to lock-in a known tax liability.

Accelerate your Deductions

-Pay tax deductible expenses in 2011 instead of 2012, such as medical bills, charity donations and property tax.

-Sell off stocks and other investments that have lost value so you can take the losses on your 2011 return.

-Pay January mortgage in December.

-If you have a home office, deduct a percentage of your house expenses - utilities and water. (Consult with a tax specialist like Martrice to find exactly what percentage of these expenses is appropriate for you.)

Defer Deductions

-Put off paying your medical bills, charity donations, property taxes, and other expenses that are deductible until early next year.

-Consider funding a Roth IRA instead of a tax-deductible traditional IRA. By forgoing the deduction, you'll be locking in a known tax rate on your contribution in return for tax-free investment returns.

Claim Tax Credits

- Get credit for making your home energy efficient or buying energy-efficient products. Go on this link for more information - http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=237190,00.html
American Opportunity Tax Credit. Note: This program was supposed to end in 2010 but it has been extended for an additional two years through December 2012 by the Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2010. It enables more parents and students to qualify for, the American Opportunity Tax Credit, to pay for college expenses. For details click here: http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=205674,00.html.

Pay Attention to Expiring Current Provisions

-Classroom expense deduction expires at end of 2011. Teachers can deduct up to $250 for books, supplies and other expenses related to their classroom until then.

-Mortgage insurance premiums can still be deducted for 2011. But this is scheduled to be the last year for this deduction.

-Sales tax deduction will also end in 2011. This is an optional itemized deduction that can be taken instead of the deduction for state and local income taxes paid.

-Deductions for college tuition expire at the end of 2011. But if you pay for classes starting early in 2012 before the end of 2011, you can still deduct up to $4,000 on your 2011 tax return.

-Mass Transit Fringe Benefit Reduced. For 2011, the tax-free exclusion for mass transit fringe benefits was set at $230 per month and was the same amount for tax-free parking benefits. The 2012 amount for mass transit benefits eligible for tax-free treatment will only be $125 per month; while the parking benefit amount will be set at $240 per month.

Hope this helps you save some money this year - and next - for a happier and more prosperous holiday!

Wendy Lalli is a freelance marketing and public relations writer who also coaches professionals in transition or seeking career advice (www.wendylallicoach.com). She writes marketing and corporate communications for ad agencies, banks, and businesses as well as copy content, articles, and blogs for Web sites, newspapers, magazines, businesses, and non-profit associations. Her written communications web site is www.wendylalli.com.

M Caldwell Enterprises is one of the leading firms in Chicago providing quality, personalized financial guidance to local individuals and businesses. It offers a variety of services including basic tax management, accounting services and financial statement compilations. Combining expertise, experience and the team mentality of its staff, M Caldwell assures that every client receives the close analysis and attention they deserve. The company’s dedication to high standards, hiring of seasoned tax professionals, and work ethic is the reason clients return year after year.

*To the extent the preceding message contains written advice relating to a Federal tax issue, the written advice is not intended or written to be used, and it cannot be used by the recipient or any other taxpayer, for the purposes of avoiding Federal tax penalties, and was not written to support the promotion or marketing of the transaction or matters discussed herein.

One in Eight Women

noreply@blogger.com (Lynette) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 21:13:00 +0000

What would you spend on a new pair of jeans? That's how much it costs to fight breast cancer. Did you know that one in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime? That's one every three minutes. With your help, we could change that number. If an organization in your local area is hosting a Lee Denim Day please support them. If not, you can go to denimday.com to make your donation now.

Lee National Denim Day® is one of the largest single-day fundraisers for breast cancer. On Oct. 7, millions of people nationwide will donate to the cause and slip into their favorite jeans to support the Women's Cancer Programs of EIF, who are bringing together world-class scientists to develop an early detection blood test; to work in Lee Labs nationwide to find less toxic, more effective treatments for breast cancer patients; and to fund the Cancer Support Community.

Breaking News: Supreme Court Decision in Wal-Mart v. Dukes Case | National Women's Law Center

noreply@blogger.com (Lynette) — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 17:30:00 +0000

Breaking News: Supreme Court Decision in Wal-Mart v. Dukes Case | National Women's Law Center
The Supreme Court has made a decision in the Wal-Mart vs. Dukes case, ruling against the female plaintiffs in a 5-4 decision. This decision is a huge setback for working women in America, who, unfortunately, are all too often saddled with the need to fight for equal pay. For more information on the case, including background and analysis, please see NWLC.

No-Cost Birth Control? It's Possible Thanks to the Health Care Law | National Women's Law Center

noreply@blogger.com (Lynette) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 15:48:00 +0000

No-Cost Birth Control? It's Possible Thanks to the Health Care Law | National Women's Law Center

Leadership Training for Local and Region Leaders

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 19:20:00 +0000

This is great training for the incoming officers. If at all possible you should make sure that you attend. If you are even thinking about becoming an officer or just wanting to learn more about the organization, please register. This is a great day to learn and network as well as have fun.

Training will be held:

Registration will begin at 9:30 AM and we will end at 4:30 PM.
Cost is $28 and you can register online at www.ifbwc.org website.

LEADERSHIP TRAINING (2).pdf

If you should have any questions you can contact me at president@ifbwc.org.

Best regards,
Tasha Roedl Rhodes
President 2011-2012

Power Friending by Amber Mac

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 17:19:00 +0000

Do you want to start a blog or make money using social networking? Do you want to get the word out about an organization you belong to? Do you want free advertisement for your business? Do you just want to know what social networking is? Well this is the book you need to buy, YES BUY!!!

I was looking to advertise my business in a way that would connect to more customers using the least amount of effort and money. Amber Mac has helped many companies do just that by using Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Many companies like Target, Zappos, Starbucks, and Sony have used social networking successfully to build a more dedicated clientele. The key is not only advertise products, but listen to customers.

Not only does social networking help you find out what your customers want, but helps you work out complaints before the issue gets out of hand. If you are listening to customer complaints and immediately help that customer, you are building a customer relationship not only with the person that complained, but all of those who were reading the complaint.

Yes, it can be overwhelming. I am having an issue keeping up with everything for my own business. But I plan to use some of the program that Amber suggested to keep track of statistics and better communicate with customers.

This book has a list of social networking websites, what the website does, and how to use it to build a business. It also gives a list of equipment that can be used, but it not necessary a requirement and how to use the equipment. She gives a list of ways to track everything about a companies website and social networking sites.

Used correctly, social networking can grow a business or organization. Used incorrectly can also close a business or organization fast. This book gives plenty of stories on what other companies have done wrong so that you do not make the same mistake. Amber also has plenty of stories of what was done correctly so that you can incorporate some of those ideas into your own social networking plan.

Putting your company or organization out on the social networking arena can be time consuming at first. It is best to find a person that can be dedicated to monitoring and posting to those programs. But if you are a one-man shop, you can still get on board the networking train. Just start with one program like Facebook or Twitter. Once you are comfortable with using the program and posting updates, add the next or just stay with one.

I recommend reading "Power Friending" before you start any kind of social networking program. It will keep you from making big mistakes but also help you grow faster with the least amount of money.

You can find the book at your local library or your favorite book store.

Stop Discounting Women

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 13:19:00 +0000

The Paycheck Fairness Act would deter wage discrimination by closing loopholes in the Equal Pay Act and barring retaliation against workers who disclose their wages to coworkers. Time is running out — the House already has passed the bill and when the Senate returns it must do the same.

In this tough economy, more and more families are counting on women’s earnings. Unfair pay practices make things even harder, especially for those families who rely solely on female earnings.

Please take a moment to forward this e-mail to your friends, family, and co-workers and invite them to tell their Senators to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act.

Please also share our action on Facebook or post this link http://bit.ly/cuC115 to Twitter or any other networks you belong to.

Calinfornia's Women's Conference

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 09:09:00 +0000

I receive the O Newsletter and I discovered that yesterday was the first day of the Women's Conference in California. You can get a live stream of the conference at http://www.livestream.com/twc2010 . The conference schedule:

A Day of Health, Wellness and Transformation
Monday, October 25
11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. ET/8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. PT

It’s Time...to Take Action
World-class experts lead interactive sessions packed with practical tips, tools and takeaways on how to transform yourself personally and professionally. Speakers include Maria Shriver, Deepak Chopra, Sally Field, Martha Beck and many more.

The Main Event and Grand Finale featuring the Minerva Awards
Tuesday, October 26
11 a.m. -10 p.m. ET/8 a.m. - 7 p.m. PT

It’s Time...to be an Architect of Change
The world’s most authentic and influential voices participate in once-in-a-lifetime conversations on the issues that really matter to women’s lives. Speakers include first lady Michelle Obama, second lady Jill Biden, the Honorable Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Diane Sawyer, Brian Williams, former first lady Laura Bush, Gayle King, Billie Jean King and many more.

The 2010 Minerva Awards, honoring Remarkable Women, Remarkable Legacies, features five winners, including Oprah Winfrey and the Honorable Sandra Day O’Connor. The evening includes remarks by Mary J. Blige and a musical performance by Sarah McLachlan.

For more on other women's programs from Oprah:
http://www.oprah.com/spirit/The-California-Womens-Conference-2010-Oprahcom

Interim Board

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 16:16:00 +0000

Interim Board information is now on Wild Apricot and in the October issue of the Illinois Bulletin. Lynette Jones has put together a great weekend of networking, business, and wine. Yes, Wine!!! Hopefully we will see you November 13th.

Election News

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:12:00 +0000

Check out this site www.changeil.org/home which has posted a series of
20 questions for all candidates for office in IL and their answers for easy
comparison. This group is not for any one party and is a collaboration group
of entities who want IL government to get CLEAN! They ask the same
questions of all candidates and while they may not be what we would ask of
them, it does shed some light on how the candidates think and may help
them make up their minds on who to vote for in the upcoming election.

Events This Week

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Sun, 17 Oct 2010 11:27:00 +0000

Here are some of the events going on throughout Illinois during the Illinois Business Woman's Week.

In Mt. Vernon:

We start IL Business Women’s Week tomorrow. We have entered into the “Harvest Fest Parade” with two vehicles. Some of the ladies are attending church with me on Sunday; I am serving brunch at my house following worship service. We have an activity planned for everyday through Friday. One of our fun things is Thursday evening when we members model and do a style show for an assisted living facility treating the residents to some fun and fashion.

In Fairview Heights Area:

The Southwestern LO is having fundraisers at Olgah's at the St. Clair Mall on Tuesday, October 19th between 12:00 noon and 8:00 pm and at Applebees on Green Mount Road on Wednesday between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

Stay Tuned for more events.

Illinois Business Woman's Week

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Sat, 16 Oct 2010 11:25:00 +0000

To start off the Illinois Business Woman's Week, I wanted to share this story from the Today Show on how far women have come in the wage gap, but how far we still need to go.

We Are Women, Embrace It

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:30:00 +0000

Lynette Jone, IFPBW President, just emailed me this article from Forbes.com. It pretty much sums up what our organization is all about. Helping women in business without destroying what all those before us have worked for.

Check it out.

What A Celebration!

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 12:09:00 +0000

Well, the conference is now over and the excitement is of next year is starting. If you were not able to attend, you missed a great weekend of learning, collaboration, and fun.

We had 115 attendees from all over the United States. We started off the weekend with greetings from the O'Fallon Chamber of Commerce and a ribbon cutting. Then a fun evening of snacks and a fashion show sponsored by Dillard's. There were 10 models who showed off the latest fashions in casual ware, business attire, and formal ware.

Saturday morning was the exciting auction. Because we received so many items for auction, the items were split into two actions. A silent auction as well as a live auction. Some of the items that were up for bid are on the WPEA website. There was a lot of fun trying to outbid each other on the more popular items like a beautiful quilt and the Nike Statues.

The first speaker of the day was Martha Rohlfing from the Illinois State Treasurers office. She gave us some interesting information on the new Credit Card laws that went into affect earlier this year. I know that when I was trying to pay off my credit cards I had a balance on a 0% interest for 1 year. I accidentally charged an item on that credit card. Well my payment went toward the 0% balance so I was charged extra for the higher interest balance. With the new laws, the credit card companies have to pay off the higher interest balance first.

3 Ladies that are members of the Enterprising and Professional Women - USA spoke about BPW International. It is amazing how many countries participate in this organization. The first EPW-USA conference will be held in Las Vegas September 26 - 27, 2010. Early bird discount registration end on August 16th, hurry and register and book your hotel now.

The Speaker Series Spotlight gave us an opportunity to listen to the great speeches from the speak-offs held in each state. There were some dynamic speeches on many topics this organization is passionate about.

Then there was the Honorable Susan Tungate who is always good for a laugh and gave some great information to help each State, Region, and Local organization reach their full potential. She is the kind of speaker that you can't get the full impact of her message unless you were there.

Susan Solovic has a great program to help women to start and grow their own business into a billion dollar corporation. She is a member of Women Impacting Public Policy, who are inline with IFBPW views on pushing legislation that improve woman's rights. She also has a TV show that helps women in small business.

A Panel Discussion was held to discuss the future of each State organization and how we can help each other move forward. Next years conference will be held in Minnesota - Twin City area. I hope that we see all of you there.

The Dinner Speaker and the last speaker of the day was Susan Sablan. She was an officer in the Navy when very few women were in the military. She talked about the history of women in the military and some of her own experiences. It is interesting that women were only allowed to fill supportive rolls in the military until the late 1980's. I do remember when that was a big deal and in the news for months. I was really upset that if I had only stayed in the Navy for a couple more years I would have been able to fill positions that I wanted but I was not allow to be in because they were considered combat positions.

There was a short presentation by SOY that is helping support our youth in discipline and growing their talents through music. To learn more about SOY contact Johna Whitener at 618.772.5214

We finished off the weekend with a party that lasted well into the late hours.

The official photographer for the weekend was Share The Image. To view some wonderful pictures of the weekend go to www.sharettheimage.com and click on Event Gallery. You may also purchase some of the pictures for your scrapbook.

I want to thank all of those who worked hard to put on the programs and keep everything running smoothly.

WPEA T-Shirts

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 09:04:00 +0000

Here is the first look at the back of the T-Shirts that are available for the low low price of $20.00. If you have not done so, you can still order by contacting Tina at fmetshirt@gmail.com.

For better look at the t-shirts go to www.fullmoonenterprise.com.

Auction Items and Vendors

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Sat, 17 Jul 2010 22:55:00 +0000

Just thought that I would spread the news. Some really nice auction item pictures have been posted to the WPEA website. I have also posted information on the new vendors. Take a peak at all the good shopping you can do in a couple of weeks.

Advertising at the WPEA Conference

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:36:00 +0000

Would you like to maximize your advertising dollars with very little effort? Include a product, coupon, brochure, etc. in the goodie bags that will be given to each attendee (approximately 200 people) at the WPEA conference.

For more information go to www.wpealliance.com and go to the Vendor section.

Updated Information ont he Summer Conference (WPEA)

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 13:54:00 +0000

The long awaited agenda has now been posted on the website ( www.wpealliance.org ).

A list of the keynote speakers are:

Kelly Lamm, Talk Show Host (Invited)
Martha Rolfing, Illinois State Treasurer’s Office
The Honorable Judge Susan Tungate
MG Michelle Johnson, USTRANSCOM (Invited)
Barbara Kasoff, WIPP (Invited)
National Panel Discussion Collective Way Ahead

A fashion show will be held Friday evening to start off the event. Saturday morning will be the Auction. Ending the weekend with a New Year's Party on Saturday evening.

For more information and detailed schedule, please visit www.wpealliance.org.

Travel information can also be found on the website on the Home page.

Register Now. Registration fee will increase from $90.00 to $100.00 starting July 1.

PSSSSS.... There is a rumor that there may be a scavenger hunt with the winning prize a secret to be revealed Saturday evening.

I hope to see you at the end of July!!!

Mailing Checks

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 13:09:00 +0000

I know that most of you are still trying to get use to the new way of paying member's dues. I am still working on a system for my LO.

Since all checks are being mailed to the bank, please make sure that you mail paperwork or some kind of note saying what the check is for. The bank forwards all paperwork to the Treasurer along with a deposit slip. The bank does not forward copies of the check, just the paperwork received with the check. If you send a check without paperwork, then the Treasurer will no know what the money is for or who sent the check.

To make sure that members get credit for payment, please make sure all paperwork is mailed with the check. It would be great if you included the check number somewhere on the paperwork as well. This way if there is a question regarding payment, the Treasurer can contact the person submitting the check.

IFBPW State Convention

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 13:39:00 +0000

For those who were not able to attend, you missed a really good weekend. We discussed and debated and were able conduct a lot of business, but we also partied hard Saturday Night.

I don't want to give to much away, but there were a lot of decisions made over the weekend.

We will be signing the National Foundation licensing fee
We have updated the Bylaws and will have those out soon
And We have updated the Legislative Platform

More information on these items and more will be sent in emails, updated on the IFBPW website and in the next issue of the Illinois Bulletin.

We also had a great time at the Workshops. It was amazing how many people increased their activity level while participating in the Active For Life program. One person even lost a significant amount of weight. For more information on this free program that can be formatted for a Church organization, business, or other kind of organizations go to Active For Life.

I also taught how to create a Google account. There is instructions on how to link your calendar with friend's calendars or organization calendars. For organizations like IFBPW, you can set up email to automatically send members a reminder for upcoming events or when reports are due. An instructors manual is on the IFBPW Region4 in the members only section. Email me if you are not able to access the manual at ilfederation.bpw@gmail.com.

One thing I did forget in the manual is that in order to set up an email account you need to use an existing email in the form. Then you have to verify the gmail account from your existing account before you can log into the gmail account. I have it on my list to update, but I may not get to it for a couple of weeks.

As soon as I receive pictures from those who attended, I will put them out on the IFBPW FaceBook page. I know we have some good pictures of all the fun.

Make sure you check out t he websites and read the emails to keep up with all the new information.

Happy International Women's Day

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:27:00 +0000

This is a little late, but I thought that I would post it anyway. This is an article that I received from Benjamin Bankes. Benjamin Banks is a program that helps you become financially fit. Below is the article from Monday, March 8th.

Today is International Women's Day, an annual celebration that highlights economic, political and social achievements of women. 2009 marked the first year that half of all the U.S. workers are women. Nearly four in ten mothers are primary breadwinners and bring home a majority of the family's income. Additionally, women are more likely than men to graduate from college, although they still typically earn less than men.

Women are also more likely than men to care for children or elderly or disabled family members. These periods of caretaking can provide gaps in a woman's career which can have a huge impact on the amount of retirement funds collected over time. A 2008 report showed that elderly women over 75 are far more likely to be poor than elderly men.

It's important for all women to think about their future and retirement. There are ways to begin now, such as investing in a tax-deferred retirement savings plan at work. These plans can help accumulate funds over time. Other options may include a IRA, such as a Roth IRA which is funded by after-tax contributions. If invested early enough, these accounts can continue to accumulate interest during a gap in a woman's career, whether for caretaking purposes or any other reason.

For more information for women, check out our Section for Women that features articles, calculators, and frequently asked questions. Visit www.feedthepig.org for more money-saving tips.

Share this tip with your friends.

Women still earn less across the glob than men

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:54:00 +0000

According to MSNBC a new study shows that women still earn one third less than men. Women with children earn even less and are less likely to be promoted.

"The persistent imbalance in household chores can hurt women's careers, the study of the International Trade Union Confederation concluded. Women with kids earn on average 68 percent of what men make, and overall, women make 74 percent of what men bring in, according to the report."

The report continues with findings that some women are required to take a pregnancy test before being hired.

"The study was based on reports from over 40 nations across the world.

The ITUC represents 176 million workers from 155 countries."

This is the reason this organization was formed. This study proves that we still have a lot of work ahead of us.

"Be the change you wish to see in the world." -- Gandhi, Mahatma

Message from Membership

noreply@blogger.com (IFBW) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:34:00 +0000

MEMBERSHIP PROSPECTS LOOK BRIGHT:
Lots of Silver Linings

We are very pleased to be serving the Illinois Federation this year as Co-chairs of the State Membership Committee. We have lots of exciting things planned for this landmark year. We
are sad to be severing ties with BPW/USA, but energized about the wonderful opportunity we have to grow State membership and redefine ourselves to better fit the needs of today’s working
women.

What to do with the $60 you won’t be paying in National Dues?

We can’t think of a better use for these dollars than for each of us to make an investment in our organization’s future by taking that “found money” to pay the first year’s dues for a new
or lapsed member. Every local knows someone who couldn’t or wouldn’t pay over $100 in dues these past couple of years. No, we don’t care how many years they haven’t paid dues. Just get
them back! With just $60, you can either pay state and local dues for one member or state dues for two members. Let’s face it, increasing membership is the only way for us to grow our organization and sustain our activities. New members are truly the gift that keeps on giving. And, let’s make a big push this summer to get the ball rolling.

And here’s what we mean by “sustain our activities”. Unlike National which was satisfied with e-members who never participated in LO meetings or events, we believe the real value to be gotten from BPW comes from being an active and engaged member. This includes networking to make personal and professional connections with other business and professional women, mentoring and being mentored, attending interesting and educational programs, taking on leadership positions from which you learn invaluable skills like how to plan a program, how to conduct a meeting, how to prepare an agenda or minutes or a treasurer’s report or a budget. And, most importantly, building lasting friendships with the most incredible women in Illinois. We just need to let the world know just how special we are.

Please be sure to tell these new (or old) members that IFBPW is stronger than ever and that we are getting back to basics and rededicating ourselves to advancing the mission of women
helping women. They should also be glad to learn that their dues the following year and thereafter will be closer to $50, depending on the amount of dues their LO charges. This is less than half of what dues have been the past couple of years.

Take advantage of the $5 discount we are offering on next year’s State Convention Registration

To encourage every member to work on recruiting new members, we are offering a $5.00
discount off next year’s convention registration fee to every member who recruits at least one
new member starting now. Yes ladies, these dollars will be coming right out of our pockets,
and we would like nothing more than to contribute $500 or more to the Federation next April because 100 or more convention goers successfully recruited at least one new member. Imagine:
nearly a 25% increase in membership and a little bonus for you. Sorry, but we can only offer one
$5 discount per member, regardless of the number of members you are able to recruit. But
don’t let that limit your efforts.

Our goal is to form new LO’s throughout the State

While we leave it to you to recruit new members locally, we will be working with our hardworking Committee, and any one else who can offer their assistance, to form new LO’s through out Illinois. At the present time, we have prospects in Bloomington-Normal, Peoria and
Springfield and are hoping to form Samothrace Clubs for college age women at the SIU campuses in Carbondale and Edwardsville. If you know anyone who lives or works in these communities, please pass along their names, phone numbers and email addresses.

Every member is on the Membership Committee

Finally, don’t forget that every single one of you is a member of the Membership Committee.
We also want to recognize those members who have stepped up and given us their commitment
to help us get the new LO’s going. They are Laura Balson, Kathy Beals, Paula Feigenbaum and
Tasha Roedl. If you want to help, too, just send one of us an email. Please email Anna Harkins
at anna.harkins@dupageco.org or Barb Yong at Blyong@golanchristie.com.

--Barbara L. Yong and Anna Harkins
State Membership Co-Chairs