Due to Thanksgiving, in November WE opted to move our gathering a week earlier, and change the format. WE invited members and the general public to a casual boutique where our members displayed their products and information on their services - offering a jump start on holiday shopping. WE thank all who participated, including ~

Sue Wendt and Sterling Haumont

Becky Merwin

Wonderful door prizes like this gourmet gift basket from Lake Country Market!

Missy Putnam - Georgia Stewart - Donna Stackpool, DC

“Fall Forward!” was the theme of our October 27 dinner meeting, and what a positive time we had! The cuisine at The Public House was outstanding as usual - with owner Kathryn Loprino impressing us with her cheerful, hands-on service levels once again. The selection of comforting soups sounded more delicious every time she listed them, and I am still smiling from the experience of the amazing Pumpkin Harvest I chose! With record-breaking winds chilling the air outside, warm soup and a fire made this meeting place more welcoming than ever. Last month there was a natural heaviness over our meeting when several people happened to be dealing with some pretty major life issues. WE opened this meeting with an interactive project led by Laura Zaraza, Stampin’ Up Demonstrator Extraordinaire. (www.laurazstamps.com) Laura provided direction and supplies for our members and guests to create Vision Boards – visual reminders of their goals. I was tickled to hear the positive energy and see the creativity sparking as the ladies worked on their projects both individually and collaboratively. Well done Laura, and thanks to those attended for receiving it so well. WE heard great feedback! (By the way – WE do still have to change the clocks backward and not forward an hour on November 6…WE just won’t fall behind in our lives…)

Margaret Guidarelli and Tracey Hennessey EA

WE had several new guests at this meeting:

Margaret Guidarelli, owner of the Lake Country Market (www.lakecountrymarket.com) on the Lauderdale Lakes northern end of Elkhorn, was a guest of Tracey Hennessey EA (www.traceystaxsservice.com) Margaret explained that this exquisite new market was a wonderful way to combine their passion for farming and food. I have personally recommended this great spot to many friends who have become regular customers, due to Chef John Schnupp’s amazing culinary offerings from cold prepared deli salads to hot dishes and sandwiches – not to mention a wonderful wine selection about which he is happy to lend his expert recommendations. Margaret invites everyone to Taste of Lake Country Market Oktoberfest – Saturday, October 30 from 12-3 – for samples of German farm fresh food samples and wine and craft beer tasting. (Find them on Facebook – Lake Country Market.)

Karen Pearce, known by many for her work with Keefe Real Estate, has also opened a new company – Wisconsin GPS. A simple unit mounted under the dashboard of a vehicle allows a business owner, manager, spouse or parent to track that vehicle online. No software is needed, since it’s Internet-based. From security to cost management and peace of mind, Karen explained the many ways this can be a valuable, if not life-saving tool. (karen@wisconsingps.com)

Margie Bryski, (www.LakeGenevaHappenings.com) encourages everyone to check out the advertising opportunities as well as keep informed on what’s happening in the area on her web site launched July, 2010. Margie is eager to work with other businesses to promote their activities as well as area not-for-profits and more.

Laura from L&M Services was invited by Mary King, owner of (www.AtTheLakeHouse.com) – who highly recommends Laura for cleaning, cooking, decorating, errands and “anything you need!” Mary and her husband have been pleased with their first season of providing the perfect getaway for the whole family – or just two. She shared the story of one guest who, after looking at the house, decided it was so nice he would stay there and have his family stay at his lake home instead!

Shelly Wedige, Donna Stackpool’s guest and hairdresser, owns The Alley in Elkhorn near Deakin Isle. She loves her “brick walls and wood floors” and invites us to her cozy shop.

WE enjoyed meeting all of these lovely ladies, and hope to see them again at future meetings. Thank you to those members who invited them. This is exactly how we wanted WE to grow and stay beneficial to the members, and I am so pleased to see how well it has.

Sherry Kirchschlager and Karen Pearce

Warm welcome to our newest member – Sherry Kirchschlager – proud new owner of Sherry’s Dockside LLC, an inventory-carrying MICHE BAG rep. The MICHE BAG saves time, space, money and makes women’s lives easier by featuring interchangeable magnetic shells which allow us to change the entire look of a purse within seconds, without having to change the contents. As soon as her new web site is launched, WE will publish it on our online member roster. Congratulations and welcome Sherry!

Announcements from our members:Chris Schulz of The White House Salon & Yoga Studio and Bella’s Boutique announced that the Fashion Night at the Bay Corner Boutiques the previous Friday was an outstanding success, and they are planning a holiday event for Friday evening, December 3. (Save the date and stay tuned – Find both of her businesses on Facebook!)

Diane Reiner of (www.acttelecom.net) is launching a business consulting arm after assisting a new salon owner to open and operate at significantly reduced expenses from the original plan. In addition to telecommunications, stay tuned for information on how Diane can help your business save money in other ways as well!

Donna Stackpool, DC (www.StackpoolChiropractic.com) reminded us that Thermography vs. Mammography detects a much higher percentage of potential breast cancer issues at much earlier stages; she announced that she is now helping athletes through Kinesio Taping; and encourages everyone to get involved in some way to support the Brynn Thornburgh benefit on Saturday, November 6 at Badger High School from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Brynn is battling liver failure and on the transplant list. The event is sponsored by the Lake Geneva Lion’s Club.

Marilyn Cayo, of Mid-America Bank reminded us that although she doesn’t actively market it much, she is a representative of Arbonne, a wonderful Swiss-formulated line of skin care. Marilyn promises to bring information (and samples?) to next month’s Holiday Boutique!

Missy Putnam, professional organizer and owner of Clearing Spaces, is offering a new 4-hour package to help you get organized for the holidays and has several upcoming classes through Badger High School’s Community Education program. Walk-ins welcome.

Roberta Pollak, Tastefully Simple Consultant,(www.tastefullysimple.com/web/rpollak) announced that she is a little short on her October sales goal and is therefore offering FREE SHIPPING to anyone who places their orders directly through her (NOT ONLINE) by end of day October 31. (Reminder - Phone numbers and web links for all members are included in our online roster at: www.wetnetworkonline.com)

Sharon Shelton, (www.SeniorSolutionsSimplified.com)  reminds us that it’s never too early to think about providing her simple automatically printing e-mail solutions for the elder relatives in our lives.

Sue Wendt (who calls herself a “failure at retirement”!) will have her beautiful Joshua Tree Jewelry, Gifts and Tableware at upcoming events including the annual Woods School Fair and the November 20 Faith Christian School fundraiser. See a small sampling of Sue’s products at our November 17 Holiday Boutique.

Tracey Hennessey, EA reminded us that in addition to bookkeeping and tax services, she also helps those in need of assistance with immigration paperwork.

Thank you to all those who made time to attend this dinner meeting and share information about your businesses and local happenings. Next month, due to Thanksgiving, WE will meet a week earlier and have an entirely different format. On Wednesday, November 17 WE will hold a Holiday Boutique in the dining room at The Public House in Williams Bay where we have been meeting. From 6-8 p.m. the public will be invited to join us to shop and learn more about our businesses. Those members who request a square table in advance will be provided one, first-come first served, at the standard member meeting rate of just $25. All members are encouraged to attend and place their marketing literature on a general table, also for $25. Our fees will help to cover the cost of appetizers which will be available to all. Cocktail servers will be on hand to handle the cash bar. WE are very excited about this new approach and I personally thank Laura Feit of Gazlo.com for supporting a thought I’m not sure I would have pursued without her. I’m thanking Kathryn Loprino, owner of The Public House in advance for her support and willingness to make this a wonderful event. She and Brian are ultra-supportive of this network and our mission, which WE appreciate beyond measure. Can’t wait to see you all November 17!

And talk about a finale… Kevin Raymond and Keith Hardy, Producers of Hooray for Holidays! at Grand Geneva, arrived from Nashville just in time to stop by with their hot-off-the-presses season schedules and an amazing offer for WE “locals.” WE are able to experience and share with our friends, associates, and clients 50% savings on specific show times for their captivating holiday revue show. Contact Denise for details. WE will definitely select one or two of these shows to gather together with other WE members and friends. Wow- the season is really upon us!

Denise ~ 10/29/10

Kathryn Loprino and Alicia Nordwig welcome guests and record menu choices.

September 22, 2010 marked the autumnal equinox with a full moon, and frankly our gathering had the energy to prove it. (Wink.)

Our dinner count number fluctuated more in the 8 hours before the meeting than it had over the entire month before. WE have always said, “the ones who make it are the ones who are meant to be there”, so the 15 people present at The Public House in Williams Bay helped make the “Back to Business” decisions on our agenda, which will follow. Thanks to Alicia Nordwig, Jacque and Mary Beth Gratz, Kathryn Loprino, Linda Moritz, Mary Anne Olszewski, MJ Hodges, Nancy Waspi, Pegge Suhm, Roberta Pollak, Sharon Shelton, Laura Feit and Maria Loomer for sharing your input. Thanks to Linda for bringing first time guest Rosemary Hable, owner of Class Act (Performance Artists and Speakers, Inc.).

As the founding organizer of the Network and the leader of the dinner meetings, I normally do a pretty good job of facilitating a positive and professional atmosphere from the beginning through end of the evening. I give myself a “mediocre” on that this month. I seem to do a lot better with 30 people than 15! Although I am sometimes teased for being a “cheerleader”, I am even more of an honest and open realist. So in a room of closely connected women with several experiencing life-changing issues as serious as broken hearts and shattered dreams, largely due to the choices of others; today’s financial climate; or the ailing health of loved ones, it was difficult for me to focus only on the business issues at hand. As I stated at this meeting, for over 5 years I have made the statement that this is a business and professionally focused network - even saying “WE are not a support group.” However, the reality is that when women gather for any reason, they are likely to bond and care about one another at a fairly deep level. So regardless of what gets said during our 60-90 second spotlights during the meeting, WE reach out to others in the group, we do share private issues and in the end, I guess WE really are a support group - and for that I’m grateful and proud. Blessings and hugs to all those struggling with personal issues. You are not alone.

Now let me put on that cheerleader hat (ponytail?) and talk about some of the great things happening among us! Mary Anne Olszewski and Awakenings3 Bodywork are moving into a permanent office with standard hours in East Troy. Mary Anne will still see clients at Stackpool Chiropractic in Lake Geneva on Thursdays from 9-6 and the first and third Saturdays of each month from 8-10. Best wishes to Mary Anne as her business expands into the East Troy Marketplace on Main Street (Highway ES).

Nancy Waspi of Golden Oaks Mansion reminds us that the Juicy Olive Lounge is open Friday and Saturday evenings from 4 p.m. – midnight. Enjoy martinis, wine, cocktails and beer with appetizers and desserts inside Lake Geneva’s oldest mansion. Nancy is pleased to announce that on October 15 the Tea Room at Golden Oaks Mansion will open, launching OMG Cupcakes. The resident baker will have the bakery case full of delicious treats including muffins and more Fridays-Sundays, with high tea being served on holiday weekends. Stay tuned as Nancy and Denise work together to spread the word about the happenings at Golden Oaks Mansion.

Linda Moritz announced the annual Journey for L.I.F.E. breast cancer fundraising events at Grand Geneva. Contact her for information on the Bake Sale, Run/Walk (10/10) or Dinner, Dance & Auction (10/15). Donations of all types are being accepted, including auction items. *NOTE: In the past our network has formed a table of 10 for the dinner event – which would be at the cost of $60 per person, rather than the individual seats at $70. Please e-mail Denise ASAP if you would like to purchase one or more seats. Call the WELL Spa + Salon at (262) 248-8811 for details on the events.

Laura Feit reminded us that Gazlo.com offers a free online listing for every business in Walworth and Rock Counties – so be sure to contact her for information on this and other ways to market your business online. Just for fun – the staff has come up with an online poll and contest. Be sure to vote for your favorite businesses in the “Best of Walworth County” at: http://www.gazlo.com/marketplace/janesville-milton-beloit/businesses/walworthcountytodaycom/features/8024/

Besides promoting your favorite spots, you could win an iPad!

Sharon Shelton of Senior Solutions Simplified was proud to announce that the recent Memory Walk has already raised over $90,000 “and still counting”. Congrats to her and everyone involved! Jacque Gratz has a limited edition breast cancer fundraising and awareness candle available at just $20 – call her at (815) 382-6106 or visit: www.mygc.com/gratz to order the 16 oz. Pink Sugar Cookie beauty.

One note of discussion at this meeting was a review of our policy to require dinner payment fee of any member who registers and does not cancel by noon the Monday prior to the meeting, whether or not she is able to actually attend. It appears that because Facebook is a casual environment, people may not take their “I’m Attending” clicks as a serious commitment to attend a function. Therefore, Facebook will NOT be considered as a formal registration in the future, but will still be used, with full event functionality for the PR benefits it does offer the group. (In other words, if you plan to attend, please e-mail your actual reservation directly to Denise. Confirming your attendance on Facebook will still help to virally promote events, the Network, and allow curious onlookers the ability to see who is attending and what type of people they may expect to meet if they attend for the first time.)

“Back to Business” Decisions Made:

WE will hold the next three monthly dinner meetings at the Williams Bay Public House. WE have thoroughly enjoyed our experiences at Café Calamari over the past several years, but voted on this change for the next quarter largely due to the fact that owner Kathryn Loprino has become a very active and supportive member of our Network, and that those present appreciated the fact they were offered diverse choices on their delicious meal options. Special thanks to Kathryn, our server Guy, and all the team at WPH for a lovely evening (and the deep fried cheesecake!) WE look forward to many more.

The WE Network will NOT be sponsoring our annual holiday boutique weekend event. WE will instead move our November meeting one week earlier to the THIRD Wednesday – November 17 and will feature a mini-boutique with heavy appetizers rather than a sit-down meal and meeting. All members will have a space to display marketing materials and those interested will have a square table on which to display merchandise. Final details will soon follow, particularly how WE will handle invitations to the outside public, fees, etc. Special thanks to Laura Feit and Kathryn Loprino for catapulting this idea into a reality with their creative and team-oriented input.

The December WE Network Holiday Dinner will be held on the fourth Wednesday, December 22 and include men and other guests.

Upcoming Events:

September 25-26 – See Sue Wendt, Joshua Tree Jewelry, Tableware & Gifts and other vendors on the lawn at The Abbey Resort during the Geneva Lakes Antique & Classic Boat Show this weekend. It’s a one-of-a-kind event worth checking into.

Tuesday, October 5 at 6:30 p.m. – Denise Schultz, Nancy Waspi and Roberta Pollak invite you to an “Autumn Night Inn” where you can sample Tastefully Simple’s fall line-up, order gifts and goodies, and enjoy beverages at the Juicy Olive Lounge (open for this private event as a cash bar.)

On Tuesday, October 19 the Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce will be holding their semi-annual Member Showcase at the Lodge at Geneva Ridge from 5-8 p.m. The WE Network will not be having a display table at this tradeshow type event, but it is open to the public and offers the opportunity to network with many local businesses if you would like to get out and do so. Stop and see WE Network Members Sharon Shelton of Senior Simplified Solutions or Kristina Ericson with lia sophia jewelry at their tables.
On November 19-21, when WE would normally hold our weekend event, The Abbey Resort has a scrapbooking event and Taste of Home Cooking Show which includes vendors and other activities. For more information contact Sue Thune, Activities Director at (262) 275-9901.

Hope to see you at the next monthly dinner meeting:
Wednesday, October 27 – The Public House – Williams Bay
6 p.m. Registration/Networking; 7 p.m. Dinner

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!