Well the groundhog says that we have 6 more weeks of winter, let’s take this time to focus and grow BPW. Several things come to mind for me: 

·        Membership is on everyone’s mind, it is the key to keeping our state viable and strong. BPW is not alone, every organization is struggling with membership. We need to focus on the key elements that our organization has been founded on “To be the leading advocate for working women” and “To achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education and information”.  As we look at our mission statement and vision, and explain it as simply as that to all women, we should be able to grow our membership. We need to explain that being apart of an organization that encourages growth for woman in all aspects will help them to grow and become better women. I know it sounds much easier then it is, but we can do it. 

·        Along with Membership, it is very important to attend the Spring State Board of Directors Meeting that will be held March 24-26, 2006 in Grayling, MI at the Holiday Inn. Early Bird Registration before February 15 is $115, after February 15 is $125. Also BPW/Michigan State Convention that will be held May 18-21, 2006 in Sault Ste. Marie at the Kewadin Casino. Early Bird Registration before April 15 is $145, after April 15 is $160 and Installation Banquet only is $55.  If you plan to attend, or if your thinking of attending, please make your sleeping room reservations now by using your credit card to hold your room, you do not have to pay for them until that weekend and can cancel up to one (1) day prior to the event. By attending these functions, you learn what is happening in BPW/Michigan and BPW/USA. It is very important that you are there. Registration forms are available online. 

·        Calendar of Events:

                        March               Women’s History Monday

                        March 24-26    Spring State Boards – Grayling

                        April                 Domestic Violence Awareness Month

                        April 18            Pay Equity Day

                        May 19            Leadership Development Training – Sault Ste. Marie

                        May 18-21       88^th State Convention – Sault Ste/ Marie 

Please remember to focus on each event, take each one individually and it will not overwhelm you. I hope to see you all at the Spring State Boards and/or BPW/Michigan State Convention.

Julie Olson

UP West District Director