Roberta Pollak and Kristina Ericson enjoy the views of both the beautiful Lake Como and their handsome dates.

On Wednesday evening, August 25, 2010 WE enjoyed a fabulous lakeside evening at Kirsch’s Restaurant at the French Country Inn on lovely Lake Como.

40 WE members and friends, including several supportive spouses, enjoyed a nearly perfect evening as we celebrated our Summer Finale dinner, with additional friends joining us on the patio for moonlight and the smooth sounds of Jeff Trudell after dinner. Our compliments to Chef Rick Starr on a delicious dinner, and to Martha Phelps and all the service staff for an excellent dining experience.

WE are happy to welcome two new members – Sheila Reiff and Mary King. Sheila has been the Walworth County Clerk of Circuit Court since 1995 and asks for your vote in the September 14 primary election. If you have any questions or would be willing to have a sign on your lawn, please contact her and she will be happy to deliver one or more. (262) 215-0169 is her personal cell phone number. Mary King has recently opened At The Lake House on the shore of Lake Como. It’s a vacation home for the entire family, or just a quiet getaway for two. Learn more about this unique lodging option at: http://www.atthelakehouse.com (click on the VRBO link for details.)

Linda Moritz, owner of Graceful Action LLC, announced that she is seeking professional speakers to present enriching programs for members of Grand Geneva’s Well Spa. Members are encouraged to contact Linda for more information. Kristina Ericson of lia sophia jewelry and Roberta Pollak of Tastefully Simple have new fall catalogs available – be sure to get yours! (Should we mention planning for holiday gift giving yet?) Chris Schulz and Joey Coleson ask for your support of a fundraiser for Richard’s Place (a non-profit organization providing housing and supportive services to people infected and affected by HIV/AIDs) that needs a new home. The September 12 event features a Cajun buffet, live music, an auction and raffles at The Cotton Exchange in Waterford. Contact any of these entrepreneurial women through Facebook or our member directory on: www.wenetworkonline.com

Welcome to our many guests including Dusti Grenus, Eileen Fricke, Jennifer Vavroch, Karen Schinke, Kathy Porth, Kristen Westlake, Margie Brisky, Margo Lantz and Holly Leitner. WE hope you enjoyed the evening, made some valuable connections, and will join us again.

WE did have one rather important order of business. I polled the group present regarding future dinner meetings. Café Calamari and the La Croix family have served us so very well over the past several years that the Tuscan Room overlooking the bay truly feels like “home” for the WE Network. The food and service have been impeccable, and WE always enjoy our evenings there. However, there are other local restaurants who have asked whether WE would consider them for our dinner meetings, and Kathryn Loprino, owner of the Williams Bay Public House is now an active and well respected member of the Network. The majority of members who shared their thoughts at the Summer Finale expressed interest in showing our support to multiple local businesses. WE do receive phenomenal meals and service at an excellent price, and WE reciprocate that support by spreading the word to many others, exactly what WE are about. It was noted that our members have businesses throughout the area and WE should attempt to support several geographic business communities. One option I have been considering is keeping our monthly dinner meetings on the same night and possibly the same location each month, but rotating another casual networking event monthly – on different nights of the week at different locations. I have long believed WE should include men at these types of events; just casual networking with no formal meeting or dinner. I certainly recognize that there are a few people out there unable to participate simply because WE always meet on the same night. When WE are able to include those few, WE will lose a few others. That’s the nature of event planning. It is important to note that I believe strongly the success of our network has been largely due to the simplicity and class of the way WE have structured our meetings. Keeping it simple has been our operating principle for five years, and complicating my life by adding more pro-bono administrative hours is not in my plan. I do, however, want to meet the needs of positive, forward-thinking, entrepreneurial women in our area – and am not only willing but eager to hear the opinions of others. Let’s share thoughts on this topic on the Women Entrepreneurs Network Group Page on Facebook please. Thanks!

WE were blessed with a near perfect evening on Wednesday, July 28 when 60 WE Network Members and Friends gathered at the Riviera Docks and sailed aboard the Walworth (also known as the U.S. Mailboat, which actually delivers mail to pier mailboxes daily.)

Special thanks to Scott Thomas, Y-Drive Limousine and Bus Service (www.ydrivelimo.com) , for providing complimentary shuttle service to/from the Lodge at Geneva Ridge, so our passengers could ride comfortably without the hassle of finding/paying for parking. Twenty of our guests took advantage of this convenient service. Contact Scott at (262) 728-7891 for your transportation needs or to reserve a spot on one of their upcoming tours.

WE would also like to thank Roberta Pollak, Tastefully Simple consultant, for providing a variety of appetizers including various flavorful dips which can be made with just three ingredients, sauces used right from the jar, and baked items made from simple mixes. To order any of these Tastefully Simple items for use in your own kitchen, shop online at: www.tastefullysimple.com/web/rpollak and select Denise Schultz as your host prior to checkout, by August 1. Any hostess benefits earned will be used for door prizes at the next event. Congratulations to Kristina Ericson, Linda Moritz and Linda Stevenson for winning prizes on the cruise!

WE appreciate all the members who invited additional guests on the cruise. The WE Network remains successful due to the fact that in addition to a core group of active members, WE continue to see new faces and learn about more businesses, opportunities and experiences. Thanks to Patty Rottmann and Diane Reiner for bringing a group from the “608” area code; to Linda Moritz and Sue Wendt for gathering groups of friends; Tracey Hennessey and Kathryn Loprino for financially supporting the event, even though last minute obstacles prevented them from cruising; Maria Loomer, Above & Beyond Concierge for inviting Bill, a professional photographer who will be providing his photos from the event; and anyone else I’ve missed for helping to make it a wonderful evening.

WE welcome Attorney Shannon Wynn and Jennifer Vavroch with Freedom United as our first-time guests who are interested in pursuing possible membership. WE look forward to seeing you ladies at future meetings.

About half of those who were aboard the boat joined us at the Lakeview Lounge at Geneva Ridge for live music by Ronnie Nyles (www.ronnienyles.com) from 9-11 p.m. Ronnie is amazingly talented, in addition to being a great sport. She played well beyond her hired time for hotel guests requesting songs and dancing the night away. WE will be hearing more of her at future events.

Speaking of future events, WE hope to see you at Kirsch’s Restaurant at the French Country Inn on Lake Como, Wednesday, August 25 for our WE Networking Summer Nights Finale. WE will enjoy a lakeside gourmet meal followed by live music on the patio, overlooking one of the lakes area’s finest sunsets… can’t wait!

Between Now and Then – Events Which may be of Interest ~
Jessica Dahme, who many of us befriended during the Midwest Artist Network Vocal Challenge in 2009, is competing in the Racine County Fair Idol Finals at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 30. Audience participation is a large part of the vote, so she has asked for all the support she can get.(www.racinecountyfair.com)

FUN-d Raisers:

Saturday, July 31 the Big Foot Lions host their annual Lobster Boil & Steak Fry at Reid Park in Fontana. The park opens at noon; with all-day activities including live music, additional food and more. (www.bigfootlions.org)

The Walworth Fontana Rotary, of which WE Member Becky Merwin is an active member, is holding their annual Corn & Brat Fest at the Walworth town square on Saturday, August 7, beginning at 11 a.m. Be sure to stop by Sandy’s Upscale Consignment, where WE Member Sandy Lenz is sure to be having spectacular summer savings on women’s apparel and accessories.

August 14 & 15 the Williams Bay Lions Club has their annual Corn & Brat Festival, including the Lioness Bake Sale and fireworks at dusk on Saturday night.

On Tuesday, August 17 the Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce and two other local organizations have their annual golf outing. Contact member Kristina Ericson at her “day job” at the Chamber at (262) 275-5102 if you would like to participate in any way. (Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Danniel Ward Packard, Botanica Fine Gardens & Landscapes – the WE Network is an active member of this Chamber.)

August 18-22 – The Lake Geneva Jaycee’s annual Venetian Fest (Yikes! End of summer!?) New this year – the Geneva Lake Women’s Association is having a Diabetes Outreach Challenge fundraiser with a fireworks cruise aboard the Lady of the Lake on Sunday evening. Boarding passes are $100 – see: www.glwa.net for more details on this philanthropic organization.

The last regular monthly dinner meeting at Café Calamari for the season was enjoyed by 19 members and 5 guests on May 26, 2010. Special thanks to the LaCroix family, Korey, and all the staff for the outstanding food and service we have become accustomed to enjoying. For the next three months our format changes to include casual lakeside networking for men and women with the kick-off event on Wed. June 23 at Bella Vista Suites new Lobby Lounge, featuring live music by Ronnie Nyles; a cocktail cruise aboard the Yacht Polaris on Wed. July 28 and the Summer Finale at Kirsch’s Restaurant on August 25. Thank you to those who have sponsored and are hosting these events.

Caralyn Anderson, Bug Out Pest Management was welcomed as the newest WE Network Member.
WE welcomed first time guests Sheila Reiff, Walworth County Circuit Court Clerk and Diane Riener of Act Telecom in Madison. Both women enjoyed the evening and plan to attend future events. (In fact, Sheila applied for membership.)
In an awareness exercise, Denise Schultz had each attendee number an index card 1-5 and immediately write down the names of the five adults with whom they are currently spending the most time – reminding us that we are likely to become (or emulate) the five people with whom we spend the most time. She encouraged everyone to consider which names on the list make them smile, and feel at their best; which names may cause negative feelings or behaviors, and adjust our lives as necessary and reasonable so that all five names become the people we most want to be with and like. Special thanks to WE Member Genie Murphy for sharing this affirming theory.

Denise announced that political candidates for local offices may be at summer networking events. The group will not endorse any candidate for office, but does welcome the opportunity for the members to ask questions and share information with those candidates taking time to attend and network with us.

Announcements/Upcoming Events:

Kristina Ericson invited all WE Network Members and Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce prospective members to join the Chamber for a luncheon cruise aboard The Duchess on Wed. June 2; departing from the Fontana Municipal Pier at noon. (Call Kristina at: 262-275-5102 for reservations or details.)
Sue Wendt invited everyone to see her Joshua Tree Jewelry, Table and Giftware at Fontana Fourth Fest July 3-4 at Reid Park. Sue’s request for the loan of a white tent was immediately filled by Jacque Gratz ~ Thank You Jacque!   Note: Roberta Pollak also needs to borrow one if someone else can help her.

Sharon Shelton of Senior Solutions Simplified is hosting a “virtual team” for those who cannot walk in the September 18 Memory Walk and would like to help the cause. (Call Sharon at: 262-853-0070.)

Memorial Day Blessings to all – and hope to see you at our Summer Nights Networking Events!
Denise 5/27/2010

On Wednesday evening, April 28, 2010 WE enjoyed a lovely moonlit evening at Cafe Calamari in Williams Bay.

17 Members and 6 guests enjoyed a wonderful meal with exceptional service and outstanding networking among professional women.

Thank you to Jacque Gratz for inviting Linda Allen (Longaberger); to Tracey Hennessey for inviting Gillian Hanks; and to MJ Hodges for bringing her lovely daughter Korey who was a joy to have among us.

Caralyn Anderson  (Bug Out Pest Management) and Sherry Bigalke (Cookie Lee Jewelry) both learned about us through our active involvement in the Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce and both enjoyed their first meetings. WE look forward to seeing them both at future meetings and events.
We were happy to see Patty Rottmann (Send Out Cards) again, a vendor at some of our boutique events.

Co-Founder Pegge Suhm, Certified Hypnotherapist (www.pegge.com) led the group in a guided imagery exercise to open the meeting on a clear note.

Founding Organizer Denise Schultz opened the meeting with many calendar announcements which will be featured at the end of this post.

Her theme for the night’s introductions was her firm belief that everyone should do what they love to do and/or are extremely good at. (Believing strongly that they should go hand in hand.) Some of the introductions were:

Alicia Nordwig, WE Network Administrator - loves feeling good and is glad to have her “life back” with increased health and energy from Isagenix, which is why she is representing their product line.

Jacque Gratz, Gold Canyon Candles - loves empowering women to build their own businesses through Gold Canyon.

Joey Coleson, details in the bay - loves everything in her store!

MJ Hodges, Rainbow Wellness - loves sharing words through her poetry on Facebook.

Roberta Pollak, Tastefully Simple - loves to eat but not to cook, so represents Tastefully Simple.

Taume Kohl, SimplyFun - loves to help people help themselves - by connecting through play.

Kathryn Loprino, The Public House - loves entertaining and it shows in the quality of her restaurants.

Judy Adams, Prepaid Legal Services - loves her life the way it is and graciously shared willow trimmings with others.

Web sites mentioned in the meeting, for easy reference:

www.gazlo.com  - Laura Feit, Sr. Account Manager is one of our newest members.

www.ecofair360.com  - New Member Catherine McQueen of The Green Leaf Inn is planning this first time event.

www.walworthcountyfair.com  - Board Member Becky Merwin announced a wonderful line-up for this year’s fair, other events happening at the fairgrounds, and the upcoming Fairest of the Fair competition.

www.genevalakewest.com  - Network members are able to participate on behalf of the network. Upcoming events include the annual Citizen of the Year luncheon at Abbey Springs on May 5.

Upcoming WE Network Events:

Wed. May 26 - Monthly Network Dinner Meeting at Cafe Calamari

Wed. June 23 - Summer Nights - WE Presents Ronnie Nyles Live at Bella Vista Suites NEW Lobby Lounge! (Men invited)

Wed. July 28 - Summer Nights - WE Network Aboard the Yacht Polaris (Men Invited)

Wed. August 25 - Summer Nights Finale - details being confirmed…

Suggestion: Follow us on Facebook to stay tuned on all events. Join the Group: Women Entrepreneurs Network

Nancy Waspi and Denise Schultz by Ariel Budleski

On Sunday, March 28 the Golden Oaks Mansion in Lake Geneva was alive with positive energy as people gathered to celebrate the unveiling of a new book, Diva-Tize – Frugal is the New Black - A Diva’s Guide to Thriving in the Recession and Beyond, self-published by Kathy O’Leary of Chicago.

Born and raised in Chicago, O’Leary considers herself to be the “ultimate city girl”. She received her education at DePaul University and The Institute of Broadcast Arts. She began her career in broadcasting on the air, in clubs and at remotes. From broadcasting Kathy moved into event planning and production, and is currently the Corporate Sales Manager at a leading downtown hotel. Kathy’s life-mantra is “to squeeze the joy of every second of each and every day and smile.”

The Golden Oaks, Lake Geneva’s most historic mansion, built for Dr. Philip Maxwell in 1856, is currently closed to the public and is for sale. A member of the sponsoring organization, the Women Entrepreneurs Network, owner Nancy Waspi graciously opened the inn for this private event, drawing mostly women from the local area as well as Chicago and its suburbs. “It was a great day – I loved seeing everyone enjoy the inn,” she shared. Adding about the grand manor, “I am so glad I was able to save it, but I am ready to move on and pass her to the next caregiver…”

As the WE Network Founder, I was personally very pleased with the turnout and the overall success of the day, especially the wonderful collaboration of many dynamic women. Special thanks to Maria Loomer, Above & Beyond Concierge who handled front door welcome and registration; Annalee Loomer, her lovely daughter who graced us with her songs; Beth Moyer with Drink Outfitters; Pam Heilman, Dove Chocolatier Extraordinaire; Dori Beck with Wildtree; Lisa Frederickson, Magia Skin Spa; Mary Anne Olszewski, Awakenings 3 Bodywork; Chris Schulz, Bella Boutique and White House Salon & Spa; Carrie Nordbrock, U-Got-Purse-Onality; Jan and Lisa Olson, JL Marie Jewelry, and Robyn & Bob Hollister, entertainers – for helping to provide a well-rounded variety of activities throughout the afternoon. We were extremely grateful for the on-site support of Barb Findlay, who reached out to volunteer her help when she received the invitation to the event.

Kathy O’Leary and I were happy to notice the natural melding of the “city girls and the lake girls” in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The book was well received, as was the Diva Dialog with the author, and many went home with personally signed copies, hot off the presses.

The afternoon was so delightful, WE Network members immediately began planning another such event to celebrate the upcoming homecoming of Kristen Westlake, Outdoor Photographer, who will soon return to Williams Bay from an extended photography journey throughout the Western U.S. Stay tuned for plans and please SAVE THE DATE for a MAY 2 photo exhibition and artist reception.

On Wednesday, March 24, a smaller group of just 17 of us enjoyed a lovely dinner at Café Calamari, with the superb levels of food and service to which we’ve become accustomed. (Thank you La Croix family, Corey, and staff.) The major difference on this evening was the stunning beauty of the blue water reflecting the sunset, after months of ice and earlier darkness…

I suspect one of the reasons for our lighter attendance was the fact that some of our members may inadvertently think of our meetings being on the “last” Wednesday of the month, when they are actually on the fourth Wednesdays . Hence, an occasional fifth Wednesday can confuse things… I also hope some were spending well-deserved “spring break” time with their families and friends.

WE have always believed in “quality not quantity” and enjoyed a wonderful evening of discussing what will be fresh and new in our own lives this spring.

Nancy Waspi, owner of Golden Oaks Mansion – looking radiantly renewed and refreshed, shared that she has slightly surrendered control of her destiny and has put her faith in God. It certainly looks good on her, and we wish her continued success and happiness. (Nancy graciously hosted a wonderful event for the Network a few days later, documented elsewhere.)

Kathryn Loprino, owner/operator of the Williams Bay Public House – shared that in addition to taking charge of her personal wellness through a new fitness program, she and her husband have taken “spring cleaning” to a higher level by meeting with their entire staff and encouraging everyone to rid all negative attitudes and behaviors. A wonderful leader, Kathryn says with her gorgeous smile, “They don’t have to like me, but they do need to respect me.” Kudos for good management - which ultimately reflects in excellent service experiences.

Marlynne (MJ) Hodges, owner of Rainbow Heart Wellness – is awaiting her favorite sign of spring – the sound of her backyard frogs singing. MJ enjoys the soothing sound of the frog songs as much as her massage clients enjoy her therapeutic services.

Karen Conell, owner of The Bark Market LLC – loves all the blooming in her yard and invites all pet lovers and local businesses to support her and others at the Pet Wellness Expo April 17 at Burlington High School (www.petwellnessexpo.com) and at Bark For Life on June 12.

Linda Stevenson, owner of Stevenson’s Trendsetters – appreciates that business picks up with the warm weather, and is especially grateful for the opportunity to return to regular walks along the beautiful Geneva Lake shore path.

Alicia Nordwig, our faithful administrator - is ready to come out of hibernation and explore new spring opportunities! She credits Isagenix with her renewed energy and vitality.

Donna Stackpool, D.C. Stackpool Chiropractic – Donna too, has recently met with staff about spring renewal of positive attitudes and best practice standards. She is doing a lot of educational speaking this spring and invites us all to follow her offerings on the practice’s Facebook page.

Judy Adams, a representative of Pre-Paid Legal Services – will soon have pussy-willow cuttings available to share, and is following Hemingway’s advice of “Just WRITE!” by blogging and exercising her creativity. She shared that her husband Ed is very good at presenting the insurance coverage of Pre-Paid Legal in a private business reception setting, for those interested in learning more about it.

Kristina Ericson, fashion advisor with lia sophia jewelry – took a few minutes to share her shiny new “spring bling”, and a few words about how owning her own company through this opportunity has positively changed her life. Kris and Adam have confirmed their wedding date of September 25, 2010!

Jacque Gratz, and her guest Andrea Peterson, are busy planning a lakeside educational retreat for their Gold Canyon team members and peers, and are utilizing the experience of members of the network. We love collaboration! Jacque spends much of her springtime “sitting on bleachers” supporting her boys, but reminds us to bring the aroma of spring indoors with her candles … this girl is good!

Gretch Hladish, Executive Producer of Midwest Artist Network – is soon launching a dynamic and interactive web site – www.midwestartistnetwork.com – and reminded us of a very important mantra: “Actions tolerated are actions taught.”  We had a very interesting discussion on boundaries and behaviors, proving that a more intimate group can more easily discuss important topics like this one. I look forward to more such discussions.

I end this recap with another important lesson, shared by Sharon Shelton, Senior Solutions Simplified:

It is what it is…
It will be what it will be.

Flexibility is the answer
Acceptance is the key…

Thank you Sharon and everyone who shares their words of wisdom with our Network.

Oh - what spring thought did I share? I am heading south for some much needed R&R with two of my favorite guys - Easter Blessings to all…

Denise ~ 3/30/10

Next monthly dinner meeting: Wednesday, April 28.

How awe-inspiring it has been to witness the UNBELIEVABLE talent of young women (not that young men aren’t encouraged…but we haven’t seen any yet…) at the first two weeks of the Junior Idol Search at Millie’s. WOW!

I know it’s tempting to stay home and relax, catch up on the long lists, run errands etc. on Saturday mornings - but believe me when I say that you are missing out on something VERY special if you don’t see and hear these uber-talened young performers.

Gretch, proud of one of her many new protegees...

Petite young people approach the stage and you expect a teeny tiny performances…then BAM! Out come these amazing vocal varieties and positive personalities well beyond their years… seriously folks - don’t miss it!

Two more weeks - Saturday mornings at Millie’s Restaurant and Shopping Village near the south shore of Delavan Lake at Hwy O and South Shore Drive. The show starts at 10 a.m., with loads of entertainment, mentoring, education and performances by all aged members of the Network. March 20 is the final showdown, with our network sponsoring a Shop & Spa Boutique in the Willamsburg Room from 10-3 - Make time to come and see us - you will be glad you did!

On Wednesday, February 24 the WE Network celebrated its five-year anniversary. What a wonderful evening WE had at Café Calamari in Williams Bay. Our charming server Corey made sure everything was timely and delicious, as always. WE appreciate everything the La Croix family and their staff do to ensure such a quality experience.
In honor of our five year celebration, the one-minute introductions had the theme of “introduce yourself as if it is five years from now.” This challenged us to verbally express our goals - perhaps even more difficult than writing them down for our eyes only…which is exactly why I did it…

What I enjoyed most about this exercise is that most of the women present indicated they would still be partially doing what they are doing today – which means they are already on the paths of living their dreams! Those who own businesses will be closer to retirement, but still enjoying the professional sides of their lives, and those who work on sales teams will have achieved higher positions of leadership. Many expressed they would NOT be in Wisconsin during this time of year, partially because we arrived during one of those spontaneous late winter blizzards! A few of the inspiring examples include:

“I’ll be a Senior Director, 12 years with the company, same contact information as my card five years ago – but the biggest difference is I’ll be pulling into your driveway in my white Mercedes Benz!” ~ Jacque Gratz, Demonstrator for Gold Canyon (Candles/Scents)

“I still own details in the bay… and now my customers and I take annual trips to Paris!” ~ Joey Coleson, details in the bay…

“I am a Doctor of Nutrition, and at 65 years of age I do NOT want Social Security. Spread it around the country as I earn my living consulting with key leaders and professionals on nutrition.” ~ Marlynne (MJ) Hodges, Rainbow Heart Enterprises

“I plan to be working ON not IN our restaurants, as our goal is to not work past 45…” ~ Kathryn Loprino, Williams Bay Public House (and 2 IL locations.)

“My second novel has just been published, and I’m trying to decide whether to accept the tenure track position offered to me, as I still enjoy doing consultations for Botanica…” ~ Danniel Ward –Packard, Botanica Fine Gardens & Landscapes

“We are about to celebrate the five-year anniversary of Arris Capital Management. Gaia Galvan will be singing at our event, and we’ve just had a very successful seminar with Pegge Suhm .” ~ Karen Ramsett, Arris Capital Management, Inc. (Launching 3/1/2010)

“I am a Sales Director for Bliss Communications, traveling around the country teaching other newspapers how to incorporate online tools like gazlo; and I am talking to Oprah about my blog on being a working Mom.” ~ Laura Feit, Account Executive, gazlo (Bliss Communications)

“I’m a national recording artist. We are debt-free, and when not traveling the world with our missions, I live with my husband and children on a farm in Tuscany.” ~ Gaia Galvan, who debuted her first original song at this event.

And the bittersweet one… “I will probably not be here in this role, as I’ll likely be doing hospital or missionary work…” ~ Alicia Nordwig, our lovely and organized administrative protégée…

What an empowering evening, ending with the enchanting performance by the beautiful and talented Gaia Galvan, first place winner of the Midwest Artist Network 2009 Vocal Artist Search. Gaia debuted two originals from the CD currently in production as part of her prize package. “Whole Again” was a heartfelt song that captured the entire audience, followed by “Mercy” a powerful number about forgiveness. WE appreciate the help of Gretch & Mark Hladish, producers, and Gaia’s husband John Galvan, for making this beautiful performance part of our evening. (See video of the production at: www.midwestartistnetwork.com)

Looking back on our vision, mission and goals for this network, I could not be more pleased with exactly where WE are and what WE have become. WE look forward to our next monthly dinner meeting - Wednesday, March 24 at Café Calamari, and hope to welcome more new guests and prospective members.

p.s. ~ Don’t miss the opportunity to network with WE members at these upcoming events ~

Saturday, March 20, 10-3 - Shop & Spa Boutiqe at Midwest Artist Network Junior Artist Search Finals Showdown - Millie’s Restaurant & Shopping Village.

Tuesday, March 23, 5-8 p.m. - Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce Member Showcase  - Free event at The Lodge at Geneva Ridge.

Sunday, March 28, 1-4 p.m. - Diva-Tize at the Mansion, Golden Oaks Mansion, Lake Geneva ~ Unveiling of Diva-Tize - Frugal is the New Black - Thriving in the Recession and Beyond - Book signing, Diva-Dialog with the author, shopping, wine tasting and more. Discount tickets available on this site!

For Immediate Release
February 12, 2010… Williams Bay, WI…

Author to Unveil Book at Golden Oaks Mansion

The Women Entrepreneurs Network invites the public to “Diva-Tize at the Mansion” on Sunday, March 28 from 1-4 p.m. This event, being held at one of Lake Geneva’s most historic homes, Golden Oaks Mansion at 421 Baker Street, will include the unveiling of a new book self-published by Kathy O’Leary of Chicago. The focus of the book, entitled “Diva-Tize – Frugal is the New Black – Thriving in the Recession and Beyond” is “tips and creative ideas for living a Diva lifestyle on a budget.”

“A Diva is a woman of grace, intelligence, style, kindness and courage,” says O’Leary. Following interviews with over 40 women, she has compiled useful tips on saving money “while still looking good, living well, shopping, entertaining, going out, giving gifts, planning for retirement, and more.” She will present an overview of the book, followed by interactive “Diva Dialog” and book signing. Light appetizers and refreshments will be served.
Keeping with the theme of frugality, the event is being sponsored by local female entrepreneurs who are creatively collaborating to keep guest costs to a minimum. “The ticket price the day of the event is just $20,” says Denise Schultz, WE Network Founder, “plus, from March 1-21 we will offer a 50% discount on VIP tickets, prepaid on our web site. (www.wenetworkonline.com)”

Nancy Golden Waspi, owner of Golden Oaks Mansion, is generously hosting the event as an opportunity for people to experience the mansion, otherwise closed for the season and for sale. Beth Moyer, owner of Drink Outfitters, will provide expert wine tips and have her wine-related boutique and gift items for sale. JL Marie Jewelry, a mother and daughter design team mentioned in the book, will have unique handmade jewelry available for purchase. Accessories from Bella Boutique and other unique locally owned businesses will also be featured. Mary Anne Olszewski will provide chair massages, local musicians will entertain with background music and Above & Beyond Concierge Services LLC will provide event management support. “We are working with business owners who understand the mutually beneficial concept of collaboration, and believe our guests will appreciate the results” adds Schultz. “All business partners and service providers involved in this event will be working entirely for optional gratuities and the opportunity to increase awareness of their skills. The only reason for guests to spend additional funds is for optional cash bar or merchandise purchases.”

On Wednesday evening, January 27 the WE Network and guests gathered for the first monthly dinner meeting of 2010. Another wonderful evening was enjoyed by 23 talented and professional women.

Announcements included the network’s first public event of the year - the Spring Shop & Spa Boutique to be held Saturday, March 20 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Millie’s Restaurant & Shopping Village, in conjunction with the Showdown Elimination Challenge of the Midwest Artist Network’s Junior Artist Competition.

WE Members will exhibit their products and services in the lovely Williamsburg Room, adjacent to the lounge where the competition will be held. WE promise a day filled with enrichment, entertainment, and good old-fashioned fun!

A preview of the February issue of THE SPIRIT OF GENEVA LAKES unveiled wonderful two-page coverage of the WE Network and the upcoming 5-year anniversary. WE appreciate the support of Ken & Lindsay Young, through their publication.

Members and guests were reminded of Elementals ’s upcoming conference - see earlier blog entry on that topic for more details.

Stay tuned, and WE hope to see you at an upcoming event!