President's Message

Hats off to Ina Klasko and her conference Committee for a job well done! As many of us know, conference is a huge undertaking. It was much nicer being an attendee, as attendees were able to take advantage of everything conference had to offer -- especially the beautiful weather. I was so proud that the Mercer chapter was well represented with 16 members. Next year we hope to have even more. If you did not attend, speak to some members who did, and you will see the benefits from attending conference.

The conference center was the perfect spot to not only soak up tremendous knowledge from all the fabulous sessions, but to soak up some good old sunshine. The weather was certainly on our side. Many of us took advantage of the early summer weather by strolling along the beach or by simply sitting on a bench on the boardwalk. This was the perfect setting to sit back and reflect on our successes, failures (out of every failure we should learn something), and how to move forward and operate more efficiently so we have time for more walks on the beach.

For me, Joan Hamburg was a thought provoking keynote speaker. Joan was a true pioneer of her time. She spoke of her struggles to break into the broadcasting and journalism business at a time when women who worked were either a nurse, teacher or secretary. Most women who did work, did not return after childbirth. The interesting thing that I got out of this was that Joan's Mother (much like my own mother) instilled tremendous self confidence in her and consistently told her she could be whatever she wanted. That might not sound like a big deal today but this was probably 50 years ago, and we have come a long way. Never underestimate the power of self-esteem and having good role models. Share your successes and struggles with your daughters, granddaughters, nieces, friends, and anyone you care about. Positive female role models are the best way to break down glass ceilings. Make sure you share your experiences and ENCOURAGE WOMEN OF ALL AGES !! Joan also talked about how to get on the air and mentioned that they are always looking for material. If you think you have a story worth sharing, send her an outline.

Thanks to Susie Rosenblaum, our chapter historian, and Ellen Entin, the Mercer chapter had a private party. We attended this informal occasion filled with Margaritas and laughter. It was great to spend time with everyone on a personal basis. Look out competition --the Margarita Mama and the Tequila Sunrises will be a force to be reckoned with next year!!

The sessions were all very good and I feel everyone walked away with ideas they can implement to increase production, efficiency, and to stay ahead of the competition. If you have an idea for a session, now is a good time to e-mail it to Ina Klasko for next year.

The grand finale was the awards dinner and cocktail party! First Union was gracious enough to come to the plate again and sponsor our cocktail party. For those of you who do not know, First Union has tremendous resources pledged for Women Business Owners. If you are in need of a bank or are considering financing, I would strongly suggest you contact a local branch to see how they can help you.

Alice Taylor of Monmouth County was voted NJAWBO'S Business Woman of the Year. I happen to know this exceptional business woman through my industry associations. Lets keep our fingers crossed for the NAWBO voting.

Lastly, The Governor was kind enough to attend our expo with Susan Bass Levin (a former NJAWBO State President), from The Commission on Women. The governor spoke of the 8 billion dollar school construction project and he urged all of us to get pre-certified to be a subcontractor on those jobs. Apparently, he was instrumental in changing the way the General Contractors utilize subcontractors -- spread the word.

For those of you who did not attend conference, I urge you to speak to members who did and I would try to plan on attending next year.

Thank you all for your continued support of our chapter -- we continue to grow through your support and good will.