By this time, we have elected a new President of the United States. On November 8th and November 9th, you still have sales that must be closed for you to generate revenue; you may have employees who are expecting their bi-weekly check and you have the cares and concerns of an employer who signs the front of the check. Thank you for being the best of California. You make a difference for families and communities, and as women business leaders, your influence remains far-reaching.  Don't hesitate to use it and bring someone else with you.

 

Although this November has been overshadowed by the Presidential election, I anticipate the opportunity to give thanks. As a company, we have prepared post cards to send to our customers and centers of influence to thank them for being the best part of our business. I am preparing for a wonderful time with my family, where we spend time reflecting on this year, with its ups and down, but a special focus on those things we are thankful for.  As your NAWBO-CA colleague, I am extremely thankful for each of you and what you mean to NAWBO chapters throughout the state and women business owners in California.

It is so exciting for California right now because we have two chapters that are in formation - NAWBO Fresno and NAWBO Central Coast California. We would like to do everything that we can to support these chapters with the wealth of information available through the Directors on the NAWBO-CA Board and through the Chapter Presidents across the state.  Dawn Goontilleke is a real estate professional and she is heading up the Central Coast effort, supported by Amy Ackerman and Mary Cravets. I do not have the information on the Fresno leader at this writing, but make sure you look for her information.  California chapters are growing because the number of women business owners are growing in our great golden state and we have opportunities that will unfold from this growth.

One of the ways you can show your gratitude for someone is to gift them a seat at the table at Propel 2017.  Plans are in full swing for our Annual Conference in Sacramento May 7-9th at the Sheraton Grande, and we certainly hope the dates have been saved on your calendar. Are you available to be part of the planning committee? Can you be an ambassador and win a prize because you not only claimed your seat at the table, but you filled a table?  An exciting reception is being planned for the NAWBO CA Woman Business Owner of the Year nominees at the historic Sutter Club in downtown Sacramento. Start planning early and look for details about the conference in the coming weeks.

Happy conclusion to a long election cycle!  May you and your family create new memories and enjoy 2016 reflections of gratitude during this season of Thanksgiving.

With a grateful heart for each of you,

 

Hilda Kennedy

President