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!

Where does the time go!? Seems like I’m always typing updates, but apparently I haven’t posted to this WE Network Blog lately!

WE are entering our 5th year, and WE couldn’t be happier with the reputation and results of this network of amazing women.

Members and guests come and go, but the positive collaboration of forward-thinking women remains solid and will continue to do so.

WE have a few member announcements as this new year begins…

Congratulations to Tracey Hennessey, Tracey’s Tax Service LLC - on her expansion to a larger office, just in time for tax season.  The new address is: 32 S. Wisconsin Street, Elkhorn, 53121.

Kudos to Becky Merwin, Walworth County Fair Board Member, for her recent recognition as the Wisconsin Association of Fairs’ District IV Outstanding Fair Person. WE’ve always known Becky is outstanding - but it’s great for her to be publicly recognized for her work!

Gretch Hladish, Executive Producer of the Midwest Artist Network has announced the next phase of the Artist Search - it’s for Juniors - ages 9-17 and begins with live submissions on January 31. There will be 4 Sundays of live submissions, followed by 4 Saturdays of elimination rounds - all at Millie’s in Delavan.

The WE Network remains a sponsor of the contest, providing opportunities for young singers to pursue their dreams. Please spread the word. Ten winners will receive the opportunity to record on a compilation CD. The first CD from the 2009 contest is in production now and will be available for purchase soon.

Please mark your calendars and share the news of the Spring Boutique at the Finals competition on Saturday, March 30 from 10-3 in The Williamsburg Room at Millie’s. WE hope to see everyone there, whether as a participating business exhibitor, or a visitor. More information will be shared at upcoming dinner meetings and via e-mails.

All members in good standing should have received an invoice for renewal of 2010 annual membership fees. There has been no increase, due to the economy. Here’s to more than hope for 2010!  I didn’t realize the due date of 1/31/2010 did not print on these invoices, which were sent well in advance. Members remitting payment on or before this date will remain current in all printed and online directories. Thank you for your prompt payment and ongoing support. At just $10 per month, value of membership in the WE network far exceeds most expectations.

WE hope to see lots of members and guests on Wednesday, December 16 at Cafe Calamari for our annual Holiday Dinner Celebration. WE deserve a night out!

Farewell to November and Welcome December…

On November 18 a fortunate group of Geneva Lakes area professional women enjoyed another delightful evening at Café Calamari in Williams Bay. In addition to the networking and open exchanges always enjoyed, WE also had the opportunity to learn about estate wines from Professional du Vin, Steven David, owner of Niche Wine Marketing Inc.

Steven shared 30 years of experience and passion, and three wines which he recommends for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. The featured wines are available for purchase locally at the Green Grocer in Williams Bay, and The Cheese Box in Lake Geneva.

First, WE sampled a nice Chardonnay from Paso Robles, California. The Eberle 2008 Chardonnay, owned by former Penn State linebacker Gary Eberle, is a 100% varietal and received a 90-point rating. In case any of us have fallen prey to the “bad rap” Chardonnay may mistakenly receive, the wine expert shared with us that “Chardonnay is actually the mother grape of Burgundy,” and should not be under-appreciated. Next WE enjoyed Inurrieta 2008 Mediadia, a lovely pink Rose, made from 100% Grenache grapes in Spain. Not to be mistaken with a white zinfandel, this slightly dry option is “one of the oldest and most noble wines to be served with dinner,” according to Steven. WE finished with “the serious stuff” – a 2007 McGuigan Merlot from the Limestone Coast of Australia. “This rich, savory, wine is chock-full of resveratrol, the natural life-enhancer,” we were told.
Niche Wine Marketing represents only estate wines, “which means we work with limited production facilities, where the owner stays with the grapes from the moment they are planted through the moment they are bottled, nurturing them every step of the way.” Steven David personally visits most of these wineries, around the globe, and distributes favorites through local eateries and boutique retail outlets. Watch for the January issue of The Spirit of Geneva Lakes for lots more great information on this fascinating and tasty topic…
Announcements Worth Noting:

Join WE Members, friends, and the community at The Abbey Resort & Avani Spa Saturday, November 21 for the Taste of Home - Festive in a Flash cooking demonstration, shopping and more…

WE Members and Friends are attending opening week shows of Hooray For Holidays! at Grand Geneva at discount prices! Be sure to let Denise know if you want to join our group on Friday evening, November 27.
Becky Merwin, Board Member of the Walworth County Fair was proud to announce that the legendary Beach Boys will be back on stage at the 2010 Fair!
Karen Ramsett, investment advisor, will have exciting news about new developments in her team coming soon.

In a discussion regarding business training, Tracey Hennessey mentioned some great upcoming programs through WCEDA (Walworth County Economic Development Alliance) – www.walworthbusiness.com - See p.s. below.

WE Breakfast Roundtables are likely to return this winter. Denise will post updates soon.
Next meeting – (not so much a meeting…)  - Wednesday, December 16 WE will gather at Café Calamari for an enjoyable stress-free holiday dinner. Please invite friends, family members, spouses, etc. for a night of celebration. (Yes – men are welcome.) Advance reservations required. Members and their guests $25; non-members $35 – includes three-course dinner, tax and gratuity. Cash bar available.

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Denise

p.s. - Thanks to Tracey Hennessey ~

Kauffman FastTrac©

Listening to Your Business™

Where is your business going in the next three years?

The Walworth County Economic Development Alliance, Inc. (WCEDA) is offering two, three hour workshops specifically designed for entrepreneurs. This program will help you evaluate and measure your personal and business strategies, answering the question, “What do I really want from by business, and how do I get it?”

Become Your Own Business Consultant
No one knows your business better than you. Listening to Your Business gives you the tools you need to take a closer look at where your business is today, what you want it to look like in three years, and the steps to get there. 

Invest in Yourself

Whether you’ve been in business for twenty years or one year, Listening to Your Business can align your vision for your business with the steps to get you there. Your business is worth the investment.

Leave Listening to Your Business motivated and confident about the future of your business. Know your three-year vision and take steps to achieve your personal and professional goals.

WCEDA will be holding workshops in Elkhorn and Whitewater. Registration is $75 per person, and seating is limited to 25 people.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Elkhorn

Gateway Technical College Room #112 (Elkhorn Campus)

8:30am - 12:00 Noon

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Whitewater

Cravath Lakefront Center

8:30am - 12:00 Noon

Make a reservation

Get more information and directions

The fourth Wednesday evening of each month tends to be one of my most favorites – and September 23 was no exception.

A group of 15 professional women gathered in the private dining room at Café Calamari for another wonderful dinner meeting. WE again proved the ‘quality over quantity’ theory, as we shared a delightful evening of business and friendly exchanges. This is the kind of night WE all deserve to make happen for ourselves!

Highlights included ~

Upcoming Events:

Friday, October 16 – Journey for L.I.F.E. dinner/dance/boutique at Grand Geneva
(Tickets just $60 per person at our reserved tables – join other WE members and guests as we wear black and pink semi-formal attire and enjoy a wonderful evening in support of a great cause.)

Sunday, October 25 – Think Pink with WLKG – live music/awareness information/shopping & more!
(Join us at The Lodge at Geneva Ridge from 12-6 p.m.)

November 7-8 – WE Network One Stop Shop & Spa Boutique at The Lodge at Geneva Ridge
(The Ultimate Ladies Getaway – Don’t Miss It!)

WE members and friends will have business exhibits at all of these events – please help spread the word and attend those you are able to.

WE members will also be present and encouraged to donate door prizes at the Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce Member Showcase event at The Lodge at Geneva Ridge Tuesday evening, October 20 from 5-8 p.m. – Stop by the FREE wine tasting and get a sneak preview of the setup for other upcoming events!

Announcements Shared:

Betsy Hicks released promotional materials on the February 25-28 (2010) Elementals Living conference at Lake Lawn Resort – Making Choices…Moving Forward - Register early for special discounts – www.elementalsliving.com

New member Joan Isenberg was introduced. Joan is offering extremely affordable photography including printing, mattes and frames – see more at: http://www.photographybyisenberg.com

Denise Schultz announced that Joey Coleson is moving her shop – details in the bay… across Highway 67 to the building where Tickled Pink is located. Everyone wishes her the best in the move and can’t wait to see her expanded location later this year!

Next Meeting:

Wednesday, October 28 – Café Calamari – 7 p.m. - WE hope to see you there!