Connect Club - Connecting Women in Business - Colorado

Catering/Galvanic Spa – Colorado

connectclub — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:52:56 +0000

Our first speaker today was Suzanne Smith – owner of Food for Thought Catering of Wheat Ridge, Colorado. Suzanne is celebrating 25 years of service to her clients this year and still loves her job!! Suzanne started off her talk today about reminding all of us about the usefulness of aprons – We have all seen aprons over the years on our Grandmothers, Mothers and sometime even ourselves (although I do not own one). Aprons were initially designed to protect the dress of the woman of the house before the advent of the washing machine, but was put in to practice with many other uses – such as picking up hot dishes, carrying in eggs from the hen house and vegetables from the garden, dust the furniture before guests arrive, or drying your children and grandchildren’s tears. Now aprons are saved for those who want to make people laugh, but for people like Suzanne they still have an everyday application! Suzanne also wanted to share today about keeping a safe and clean kitchen. She called this talk Cleaning 101 – several ways to keep yourself safe from kitchen bacteria and they all may not be what you think! The first idea is what we should all do all the time when cooking – wash your hands 20 seconds between foods this will help keep cross contamination from happening, another helpful hint is Cutting Board cleanup – in Suzanne’s kitchen they have a cutting board for each different food product – meat, veggies and etc.. In your own kitchen you might consider having two – on for meat and one for veggies. But when cleaning if you can’t put the cutting board in the dish washer then you next best alternative is bleach or undiluted vinegar. Another area that you may not think to much about is your sink, you need to keep your sink clean and most sinks harbor 18,000 bacteria per square inch, that doesn’t sound good. The clean up can be as simple as very hot soapy water and occasionally a mixture of 1 tablespoon of bleach per quart of water will add insurance for safety. For those of us who still use sponges in our kitchens… this is the worst offender of bacteria and germs in you kitchen! If you do use a sponge in the kitchen keep in mind that because it stays wet for extended periods of time that bacteria can grow quickly and if reused you are spreading that bacteria to the counter and possibly to your food. To help eliminate the bacteria and germs in sponges it is recommended that you either boil the sponge for five minutes, microwave it for a minute or two – but be careful because on full power can melt it or throw it in the dishwasher along with the dishes from your meal. As for cleaning fruits and vegetables – don’t buy the high priced cleaners – a mixture of 3 parts water and 1 part vinegar will work just as effectively, and yes, you should wash the outside of fruits and vegetables because when cutting you are pulling all those germs into the cut with the slice of the blade! Keep in mind that that most bacteria thrive 40 and 140 degrees and bacteria can double about every twenty minutes – as a rule food shouldn’t stay in this “danger zone” for more than two hours. These quick tips can help keeping your kitchen clean! If you are looking for a fantastic caterer in the Denver Metro area – Suzanne Smith at Food for Thought Catering offers a tantalizing menu that will feed any hunger!

Suzanne Smith * Food for Thought Catering * 303.425.5442

Our second speaker today was Angela Wihelmi from NuSkin Galvanic Spa. This is a hand held unit that you use to erase wrinkles and fine lines, using the unit combined with the AgeLock gels to diminish lines and wrinkles, it will also help with acne with a different gel to pull out the impurities in your pores. NuSkin brought together world class scientists to help develop the AgeLock Gels and one of those scientists is the man who also created the drugs that are used with organ transplant patients. Angela has also run a gift basket company – but had put all her eggs in the real estate basket – when the market dropped so did her business. She thought about working her business back up but had an opportunity to see the NuSkin Spa and decided that it was time to step outside her comfort zone and reinvent herself. Angela has been working with NuSkin for about a year and is loving it! She really enjoys the close contact with her clients and the ability to offer them a dramatic and positive change in their lives. Other exciting news with the NuSkin Company is that they just received the 2009 Stevie Award (kind of like receiving an Oscar in the business world) with their Nourish the Children Campaign NuSkin works to feed hungry children of the world by using the NuSkin distributors and clients throughout the world and working with reputable charitable organizations in the world poorest countries to make sure that the support gets to the children who needs. It is quite a distinction for NuSkin. Angela would like for us to keep in mind that she would appreciate leads or introduction to lady golfers, botox friends, a Red Hat Society and adults or children with severe acne. If you want to try the half face demonstration youself – give Angela Wihelmi with NuSkin and call!

Angela Wilhelmi * NuSkin Galvanic Spa * 303.875.7440 * angela@creationsbyangela.com

Also Your Invited! Stacie Jacobs & Pam Thomas of Thrivent Financial are having an Educational Open House – Sat. March 13, 2010 from 9:00am to 1:00pm. If you would like to attend please RSVP to 303.962.6265 ext 105 by Mar 10th. They will also have a shredding truck on site for all those personal documents.

Printing/Financial Planning – Colorado

connectclub — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 23:17:46 +0000

Our first speaker today was Cindi Thordarson from Ecographics Printing in Lakewood, Colorado. Cindi spoke today about the variety of services that Ecographics Printing offers – such as wire-o binding – a similar but cheaper alternative to spiral binding, wire-o is similar to the plastic comb binding but being that they are made of metal they last longer than the plastic combs, which will become dry and brittle over time. Cindi had a variety of samples of wire-o bound books and manuals that Ecographics Printing have done over the years – including one that they put together for a training program where the customer wanted to have a pocket in the back, where their clients could put their notes and papers that they received throughout the training. Ecographics Printing also offer perfect binding, which is how paperback books are put together. Cindi also passed around samples of books that they have done for a variety of clients. The next item she showed us were pocket folders – Ecographics Printing has done many of these over the years in a variety of styles, including folders with expanded pockets and spines – Cindi did mention that on the expanded pockets you might consider limiting this to a quarter inch, the folders over that don’t hold up as well and can get damaged just in packaging. Cindi also showed us a three ring binder that they do for a school education program, with a silk screened cover and spine although they do not produce these in-house they work with a wholesaler here in Colorado. If there any part of your project that Ecographics Printing can’t produce in their shop they work with manufacturers in Colorado to support the local industry. Through the many changes in the industry – Cindi states that Ecographics Printing has worked to keep up the digital age and yet in keeping with their roots kept 2 small offset printing presses to maintain the clients that want offset printing – yes there are a few of those left. They are also now moving into the sign business – where Cindi’s business partner started, we can now offer signs in most any format you need – from the simple metal sign to hang over the door to the big lighted box signs that we see in every strip mall around town. Ecographics Printing can take you from design to completion including permitting with your local municipality. So if you need any help with design and implementation of your marketing plan Ecographics Printing certainly could help you with all of it!

Cindi Thordarson * Ecographics Printing * cindi@ecographicsprinting.com * 303.238.7791

Our second speaker today was Pam Thomas of Thrivent Financial Services in Lakewood, Colorado. Pam spoke to us today about IRA’s and whether or not you should convert you traditional IRA to a Roth. The main benefit of a Roth IRA is that you have already paid taxes on the money so you will not be taxed on the growth or withdrawal. This year would be a good year to do a conversion as they have removed the income cap of 100,000.00 and for 2010 only, Pam tells us that you can pay the taxes in two different ways – either the whole bill in 2010 or you can pay half in 2011 and the other half in 2012, this will help with the tax hit if you are converting a large amount. This year you also have the opportunity to revert back to a traditional IRA with out any penalties - you may want to do this if the value of your Roth IRA drops significantly. Pam also remarked that when converting to a Roth you can open as many accounts as you want so you can revert back easily without mixing your funds. What accounts can be converted – Traditional IRA, 401K, 403B, 457 and inherited 401K, but not an inherited IRA or educational IRA. Who should convert to a Roth? You may want to consider converting if you are planning to pass it on to you children, with a Roth it passes on without taxes, if you are going to be in a lower tax rate in retirement, and if you want to shelter your income now and offset your taxable income. You have up until April 15th to re-characterize your IRA – something very serious to think about! Pam also want to briefly cover the New Credit Card Rules put in place by the Federal Reserve. Number 1: they must notify you 45 days in advance of any rate change. Number 2: your due date must remain the same day of the month. Number 3: they must mail 21 days before the bill is due. Number 4: any payment over the minimum payment must go to pay off the high interest rate balance. Number 5: until the age of 21 the credit limit is 500.00. Pam at Thrivent Financial Services has a lot experience dealing with financial planning and if you need some one to guide you through your retirement planning, you should give her a call!

Pam Thomas * Thrivent Financial Services * www.thrivent.com * 303.962.6265

Mortgage Broker/Florist – Colorado

connectclub — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 19:40:48 +0000

Today’s first speaker was Denise Wing with Academy National Mortgage, her talk today was about some of the changes and new regulations in the mortgage industry. The state of Colorado, in an attempt to stop the huge amount of mortgage fraud and bad lending practices the state 4 years ago created the Mortgage Lender Registration – requiring all independent mortgage brokers to be registered. The last year year they started testing and licensing independent brokers, in light of the Colorado went from 10,000 independent brokers to 6000 independent mortgage brokers. Also something to keep in mind is that mortgage brokers working within a bank (Wells Fargo, US Bank, etc.) do not have to go through the same testing and licensing as independent mortgage brokers – the state figures since the bank is bonded and registered with the federal government they are covered. Another caution from Denise is the mortgage brokers who are essentially working under the table, working with a licensed office – yet not licensed themselves, Denise has had calls from brokers that want to work with her in this manner. One of the major changes in mortgage lending in the Home Valuation Code of Conduct Appraisal Regulation or HVCC - setup last year for conventional loans and as of February 1st for FHA - this regulation was designed to help prevent appraisal fraud by making the appraisers independent from the realtor and mortgage broker. Therefore not allowing the broker or realtor to use an appraiser that they know and trust, the appraisal is sent to an Appraisal Management Company, adding layer of bureaucracy that tends to slows down the loan process, decreases customer service and creates an increased potential for miscommunication. July 30, 2009 - some of the provisions of the Mortgage Disclosure Improvement Act of 2008 (MDIA) went into effect changing the way the closing process works, creating the 3/7/3 Rule requiring a seven day waiting period once the initial disclosure is provided before closing a home loan. What this means is that you must receive the initial Good Faith Estimate (GFE) and initial TIL statement disclosing the final Annual Percentage Rate (APR) seven days prior to closing and if the final APR is off by more than .125% from the initial Good Faith Estimate then your mortgage broker must re-disclose and then wait three more days prior to closing. So it is now more important than ever for your mortgage broker is on top of your loan. Another major change that came into effect in January 2010 was the makeover of the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act or RESPA which was designed to protect consumers in the process of purchasing a home. Two of the biggest changes you will notice is that the Good Faith Estimate has gone from one page to 3 pages and has a worksheet that the borrower can make notes and compare offers from up to 3 different lenders. Although the changes are intended to protect consumers, the debate within the mortgage industry is about whether the new rules, will actually accomplish those goals. If you need a Mortgage Broker that will walk you through all of the new rules and regulations give Denise Wing of Academy National Mortgage a call!

Denise Wing * Academy National Mortgage * 303.987.0622 * dwing@academynational.net

Ginger Kaiser of Willows Floral, spoke second today and talked about the value and pleasure of bring green plants into your home during this time of years. It is a reminder that spring will eventually arrive. By having living plants in your house you can reduce your stress level and reduce allergens and dust by 20%. Ginger went to her supplier last week and was surprised by the amount of succulents they had in stock. It seems that succulents are making a comeback, like the ever favorite Aloe plant or the Rubber Tree plant are two of the most common types. Ginger brought in a couple of different ones that are not as common – such as the Jade-that has bubble type leaves, where it stores water, the Ice Plant-which grows very low to the ground and flowers with beautiful pink, purple and orange flowers and the Panda Plant which has fine white hairs on its leaves – a very hardy plant. The next plant was a Bromeliad, not a succulent, but a wonderful flowering plant that if treated right can live forever., just remember to water it in it’s center cone. Ginger also brought in two different colors of Flowering or Ornamental Kale – which looks like cabbage – because it is but not edible. It is a hardy ground cover that you can start inside and move outdoors after the last frost and it will bring color all summer and late into fall. Ginger also brought in a product that she found at O’ Tooles Garden Center for gnats, when one has a lot of indoor house plants – gnats can by a big problem. Green Light Many Purpose Dust is great for getting rid of the gnats in the soil in your pots. You simply sprinkle it on the soil and water in, the gnats will be gone!! If you need to get a handle on your indoor plants or want a bouquet for a special occasion call Ginger Kaiser of Willows Floral a call!!

Ginger Kaiser * Willows Floral * 303.989.6446 * flower_queen@comcast.net

Accountant / Mary Kay Cosmetics – Colorado

connectclub — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 18:55:27 +0000

Today’s first speaker was Anna Kay Roche, CPA, and today she spoke about the changes in tax laws for our 2009 taxes. Anna went on to explain a few of the new changes such example as the Making Work Pay Credit – if you have earned income form working, it is a 6.2% of your earned income – but not more than $400 or $800 married filing jointly. Next is the Economic Recovery Payment – any economic recovery payment that you received is not taxable for your federal taxes but it will reduce your Making Work Credit. If you took advantage of the Cash For Clunkers opportunity – the $3500 or $4000 payment or credit is not taxable. If you have been or currently are unemployed – your Unemployment Compensation is taxable only over $2400. Another deduction to keep in mind is the Motor Vehicle tax – if you bought a new motor vehicle after Feb 16, 2009 you may be able to deduct the state, local or excise taxes on the purchase. In those states that don’t have sales tax there are other fees you can deduct. Also the First time Homebuyer Credit – this credit has been increased to $8000 or $4000 if married filing separately for homes bought after 2008 and before May 1, 2010 (July 1, 2010 if you have a contract on or before May 1, 2010) so you can take the credit on your 2010 purchase on your 2009 taxes. Important to keep in mind is that if you took the credit in 2008 and sold your house in 2009. With divorced or separated parents – the non custodial parent can no longer attached the divorce or separation papers – but must file a form 8332 if the papers were filed after 2008. Some of the other items that Anna talked about changes coming in 2010 – the phase out of the tax exemptions and credits, this is making it really hard to plan for future tax years. So if you are working through your taxes and find that you need a hand give Anna Kay Roche a call and she can help you find your way through the tax maze.

Anna Kay Roche, CPA * 303.403.0775

Our second speaker today was Ruthie Williams, of Mary Kay Cosmetics. Ruthie started her talk today with a hands on trial of the New Time Wise Even Complexion Mask. She had each of us put a dab on the back of one hand and massage in. We left it on for about 5 minutes and the wiped it off with a damp napkin. You could really feel a difference between to treated hand and the untreated hand. The New Time Wise Even Complexion Mask brings the blood to the surface and exfoliates the skin – making your skin brighter and firmer, it also helps with age spots. The Even Complexion Mask has been developed with pure botanical extracts and is a wonderful addition to your Time Wise regimen. Ruthie explained the benefits of using the entire Time Wise line, the Time Wise products are designed to cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, firm, protect, energize and brighten your skin. The Time Wise Collection has 6 items to improve and brighten your skin – the 3-1 Cleanser – use this product at night following your circadian rhythm and removing dead skin and impurities the your skin has endured all day. The Age Fighting Moisturizer – to be used morning and at night to hydrate your skin and create a barrier for your skin from the elements. This is an antioxidant enriched lotion that provides 10 hours of hydration. Next is the Day Solution Sunscreen SPF 25, use this product every morning before applying your moisturizer to block the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays. The Time Wise Night Solution – use every night before applying your moisturizer to help rebuild your skin while you sleep – it stimulates your collagen to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Another product in the Time Wise Line is the Serum+C, a naturally enriched product that has5 different extracts known for their high levels of Vitamin C that is proven to help with collagen production and support elastin. Using all of these products together along with the Time Wise Mask – can make a brighter and younger looking you. Mary Kay Satin Hands set has a new addition to the line for those who didn’t like the peach smell of the original can now get a fragrance free version – to keep your hands looking young and smooth. Another new product is the Mary Kay Eyebrow Gel that helps keep your brows in place, it comes with a wand that is similar to an eyelash wand to help in the application. If you want to look younger and brighter give Ruthie Williams a call to get you started on a skin care regimen designed for you!

Ruthie Williams * 303.278.320 * RuthieWilliams@MaryKay.com

And lastly, member Dottie Johnson, our massage therapist, is having an Open House at Massage Haven, 2500 Youngfield St., Ste. 6, Lakewood, CO 80215. So check out the full variety of services offered by the women of Massage Haven on Saturday, February 13th 2010, 3:00 to 5:00 pm and maybe pick up a gift certificate for your sweetheart!!

Hair Salon / Real Estate – Colorado

connectclub — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 17:53:22 +0000

Our meetings first speaker today was Edna Miklos of The Hair Place in Golden, Colorado. She spoke to us about thinning hair and the Nioxin system. There has been a lot about the Ovation hair restoration system, Rogaine or Nioxin – they all have the same thing in common. You didn’t lose your hair overnight and you won’t get it back over night, for optimum results you need to use the full line and use it correctly. There are six reasons for thinning or balding hair: 1. genetics 2. stress 3. diet 4. general health 5. environment 6. medication. The program offered by The Hair Place is The Nioxin System, which is a three part system: The Cleanse – which cleans residue and DHT (dihyrotestonerone) from the scalp, DHT is most prevalent in the morning and blocks the follicles, inhibiting hair growth. The Restore Scalp Therapy – restores moisture and resilience to the scalp skin and The Activate Scalp Treatment – activates the scalp and nourishes the follicles by bringing the circulation to the scalp skin. Nioxin is a 3 part regimen and comes in 8 different formulas – #1-4 are designed more for Caucasian hair and #5-8 are designed courser, Asian or Hispanic hair. The formulas #1,3,5 & 7 are for the early stages of thinning the main difference is that #3 & 7 are for chemically treated hair. The formulas #2, 4 , 6 & 8 are for the advanced stages of thinning or balding with #4 & 8 being for the chemically treated hair, chemically treated is referring to either colored or permed hair. The Activator Scalp Treatment is different in that they are a foam type treatment rather than a liquid. Nioxin also has an extra product called Follicle Booster which does just what the name implies, it is an intensive leave-in scalp treatment for areas of excessive thinning. How one would use the Nioxin system: Step 1: Shampoo with Nioxin Cleanser and rinse out. Step 2: Apply the Nioxin Scalp Therapy – starting at the scalp massaging into the scalp skin and let it set for a couple minutes and then rinse out. Once out of the shower, towel dry your hair and apply the treatment suggested for you – #1,3,5 or 7 will be a liquid application, 2-3 squirts directed on the scalp, then pat around - #2,4,6 & 8 will be a foam application 2-3 pumps distributed around the thinning areas. You will start to feel a tingley sensation as the solution starts to work. Depending on your stage of thinning, this is the time to apply the Nioxin Follicle Booster – again it would be 2-3 pumps applied directly to the scalp and massaged in. Nioxin also has a line of intensive conditioners for the hair, to help to rebuild elasticity and replace moisture to the hair without leaving the hair heavy and limp. Nioxin Weightless Re-constructor -a masque-protein complex that conditions the structure of the hair. Nioxin Hydrating Masque – a weightless moisturizer that maintains the correct moisture balance for your hair. Nioxin Deep Repair Masque – a deep penetrating re-constructor that helps repair damage and restore the elasticity to your hair. As well, Nioxin has a line of styling products that are designed to keep your hair healthy – designed for fine and thinning hair. Nioxin has a Root Lifter, thickening Spray Gels, Bodifying foam or mousse, Bliss Thermal Protector and Niospray Humidity Resistor – humidity resistance means that if you are in a humid climate (which doesn’t happen much here in Colorado) it will hold your style if you use it before you go out, but don’t run your hands through your hair or comb it or it will release. If you have thinning hair or just need a good cut and help with your style visit Edna Miklos at The Hair Place.

Edna Miklos * The Hair Place * 303.233.4764

The second speaker of the day was Genie Reynolds of Magic Genie Realty in Lakewood Colorado. Genie’s talk today centered around a recent speech by her favorite author and realtor, Jennifer Allen, who wrote “Sell with Soul”. Genie talked to you us about “Referral Begging” – as referrals are one of the most important things for realtor’s and all of us. The number one rule of Referral Begging is DON’T DO IT!!! When you are asking, reminding, obligating, and bribing for business you appear desperate for business. When you aren’t as successful as you want to be – you don’t want to advertise that you are needy, hungry or desperate. Referral Begging should be unnecessary if you provide excellent service and product to your clients they will refer others to you. Asking for referrals can be counterproductive – do you refer people you feel sorry for or do you want to refer people who make you look good to your clients. If you are always on the hunt – you will come across as desperate – think of it this way. You have a girlfriend who is always asking you, bugging you to fix her up. You might try a few times but if it doesn’t work – you start asking yourself why can’t she find someone on her own? What is WRONG with her or what is wrong with the guys I referred to her? If you are directly asking your clients for referrals you are putting them on the spot and makes them uncomfortable in dealing with you now and in the future. If you are asking for referrals every time you are socializing with friends – they will suspect the only reason you are spending time with them is that you are begging for referrals and then they may shy away from spending time with you for fear of being put on the spot. Then they may not send people to you just because they are annoyed with you. If a client does use you – but has come to expect the sales pitch – they may take their business elsewhere. Referral begging is unprofessional and can undermine your credibility. Jennifer Allen also speaks to the Referral Bribing method – giving gifts, referral fees or charitable contributions is another NO, NO… they should be giving you a referral without the prospect of a gift at the end. You can instead take them to lunch to say thank you OR you could send them referrals in return, perhaps the best thank you!! In real estate there are a number of marketing “systems” one of them is Brian Buffini. His tag line on everything, is “oh by the way” or “I am never to busy for your referrals” – it is ubiquitous – not new anymore – and kind of hokey. Other notorious ones are ”I heart Referrals” or ”The greatest compliment I can receive is your referral”. People want to give business to SUCCESSFUL people who are busy, maybe have a waiting list – not people who NEED or have the time to Referral Beg. The best way to get referrals is to be the BEST possible person in your given profession – make sure that you KNOW what you are talking about, bring value to your clients and the referrals will come. You can buy all kinds of marketing systems – software or coaching – but if you aren’t GREAT and offering the services your clients, those people you are working with won’t come back and/or won’t refer friends and family to you. Jennifer Allen thinks that gently reminding your clients that you operate a referral based business is a much better approach. Saying something like I enjoy a referral based business or tell a story about a past tough client and how after the successful completion of the project or sale – you thought “I will never hear from them again” suddenly you got a call from one of their clients. Another approach is talking about how you built your business by word of mouth – if they can pass along your name you would really appreciate it. Genie reminds us that there is no magic script or technique – but more of an attitude! Your clients are lucky to work with you – not cockiness- but self-assuredness!!! Keep in touch with your clients and you won’t need to beg for referrals! Keep Genie Reynolds of Magic Genie Real Estate for your next purchase or if you need a property management, she will help make the whole process run smoothly!!

Genie Reynolds * Magic Genie Real Estate * www.MagicGenieRealty.com * 303.942.1912

And lastly, member Dottie Johnson, our massge therapist, is having an Open House at Massage Haven, 2500 Youngfield St., Ste. 6, Lakewood, CO 80215. So check out the full variety of services offered by the women of Massage Haven on Saturday, February 13th 2010, 3:00 to 5:00 pm and maybe pick up a gift certificate for your sweetheart!!

Acupuncture / Web Marketing – Colorado

connectclub — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 02:18:57 +0000

This week we had Dr. Erin Foley-Kruse of Mountain Lifestyles Chiropractic & Acupuncture Center in Golden as our first speaker. Erin talked about the acupuncture services that she offers for her patients. Dr. Erin Foley-Kruse has been in practice for 22 years – spending 12 years of that time in Golden, Colorado. Her schooling in acupuncture includes a 3 year course of 500 hours of training followed by a 3 month internship and is NCAAOM certified, one a few here in Colorado. Acupuncture has been around for between 3000-5000 years in Chinese medicine, originally the needles were actually made of bone and they trained students on energy sensitive people. Acupuncture is the the use of the body meridians that are found throughout the body, releasing endorphins that relax the muscle and relieve pain. There are 14 meridian lines that run through the human body, each different meridian line helps or effects parts of the body, an example of this is working with the liver meridian can help with migraine headaches. The various meridians throughout the body can help with a variety of injuries and other problems, from mild traumatic brain injury – like what you would get from whiplash in a car accident or beginning stages of carpel tunnel syndrome. Dr Erin Foley Kruse recommends 6 sessions, beginning with a traditional Chinese diagnosis which takes about an hour and a half and will have several points of evaluation. This gives her a starting point to design a course of treatment and which meridians need to be worked on to better your health. So if you are thinking about working with an acupuncturist or a chiropractor your first call should be to Dr. Erin Foley Kruse at Mountain Lifestyles Chiropractic and Acupuncture Center.

Dr. Erin Foley Kruse * Mountain Lifestyles Chiropractic and Acupuncture Center * 303.271.1701 * krusedc@yahoo.com

Our second speaker was Mary Walewski, standing in for Maki Delaet, of Educyber, your technology parter. Mary started her talk with a few fact or crap questions about social media, questions like does Dick Cheney have more Twitter followers than Ashton Kutcher – which is crap, or are the more employees on Linkdin than managers – crap, how about there are more people under 25 than those over 25 on Facebook – that is crap too. The opportunities of the new world of social network marketing have become things that we as business owners are looking into. Businesses are using Twitter to drive people to their business at just the right moment – such as a bakery tweeting that the bread is fresh out of the oven or a barbeque shop tweeting were their truck will be and followers show up to buy barbeque. When posting on Facebook, Linkedin or Twitter be yourself and don’t sell, just let the people see you as you are, the referrals will come in from second and third hand referrals. Such examples of this are Stephanie Meyer of the Twilight series – she started with a MySpace page and her blog, as people read it they created forums and fan pages that eventually got her a three book deal. Another example is the basis of Julie & Julia, this also came from a blog, people reading the blog started to send emails for more information – then CBS Morning News set up an interview and now she has a second book in the works. So using a blog to increase your sales with tips of your trade or posting ideas on your Facebook page is something that most businesses need to look into. There is also a business section on Facebook, although you have to personal to set one up. Keep it simple for both business and personal – and don’t post anything on your Facebook or Linkedin that you wouldn’t want your mom to see. Keep Maki and Educyber in mind when setting up your web page, or if you need help learning the new world of social networking for your business.

Maki DeLaet * Educyber * 303.268.2245 * www.educyber.com

Homemade Gourmet / Consignment Clothing – Colorado

connectclub — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 21:59:58 +0000

We had a fun meeting today ~ as both of our Spotlight Speakers forgot that they were speaking. Terry Gore of Homemade Gourmet spoke first, letting us know what came out at the Homemade Gourmet Leadership Conference. The company is very stable and not experiencing the recession quite as badly as some other corporations. Homemade Gourmet is looking to the future and working up some new packaging for their products. They will be putting the Pantry Staples in boxes during the new year. Homemade Gourmet is also looking going to be coming out with shakers for the Pantry Staples as well, that way you can access exactly what you need for preparation of your dinner. This year has also brought a price increase to the Homemade Gourmet Teas, and so far they are still not offering a sugar free version, but with as many requests as they get for it – it may be something they bring out in the future. Another future item that Homemade Gourmet is looking into is lowering the sodium content of some of the seasonings, making the food healthier than it already is. Terry suggests that for your Super Bowl Party – you put together a couple of the Homemade Gourmet dips and meals, so when the big game is on you can be were all the action is and not in the kitchen preparing food! Terry also let us know that the bundle special of the month is the Mini 4 Meals in 4 Minutes bundle, which includes the complete meal planner and grocery list – 11 mixes and seasonings. Also on special this month are the Homemade Gourmet soup mixes – 15% off every soup mix including the limited edition No Alarm Chili mix and 11 other soups to pick from! If you register on line now and have the items shipped to your house they are offering a free seasoning mix. So if you are looking for a way to cut down on the time you spend in the kitchen and spend more time at the dinner table with your family look in to Homemade Gourmet for another meal time alternative.

Terry Gore * Homemade Gourmet * 303-502-6782 * www.homemadegourmet.com/tlgore23912

Our second speaker was unable to make it today – Christine Metzger of Upscale Plus and UpScale Princess, so her substitute Cheryl Brungardt, spoke for her and did a mighty fine job. Cheryl started off by reminding us that cleaning out your closet and can be the beginning of a new life for the clothes you don’t wear any more. Re-use * Recycle * Re-new, for even those clothes that don’t sell, they pay it forward by going on to The Family Tree – helping women who have fallen on hard times. If you haven’t worn it in a year – take a look at it, take it to the dry cleaners and take it to Upscale Plus and UpScale Princess. Just remember that Christine doesn’t take clothes from Walmart, Target or Old Navy – that’s the Up in UpScale!!! You might want to take a look at UpScale Plus and UpScale Princess even if you are not looking for clothes – they have plenty of other accessories – purses, scarves, shoes, jewelry and swimsuits (which are new), to brighten up your wardrobe! Stop by and say Hi to Christine at UpScale Plus and UpScale Princess at 3890 Kipling St. and she what she has in stock!!

Christine Metzger * UpScale Plus UpScale Princess * 303-420-5423 * upscaleplus@earthlink.net

Also remember Cheryl Brungardt for making a great fill in spotlight speaker!

Shaklee/Advertising & Public Relations-Colorado

connectclub — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 14:37:38 +0000

Laura Kilty, of Shaklee was our first speaker this week, she spoke to us today about weight loss. We are all inundated with the diet ads and programs this time of year. Shaklee offers, not a weight loss program, but a weight management program for healthier lifestyle. Eighty percent of our health care dollars are spent on heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer – all conditions that have a great deal to do with weight. So with a healthy weight you can stave off these diseases and live a healthier life. The Cynch Program that Shaklee offers a program that is based in scientific fact and can help with a healthy and managed weight loss that you can maintain. The diets out that are out there offer but cause muscle loss which is not what you want – 1 poundof muscle burns 50 calories a day. So when dieting you really want to find a diet that helps you hold on to the muscle and burn the fat – which is what you want to really make your weight loss count! Shaklee’s Cynch Program is designed around weight lifters use of Leucine, which is a muscle retaining amino acid - Leucine in combination with protein helps build muscle and lose inches. The Cynch products are all based on this ratio to produce the best weight loss and retain 100% of your lean muscle mass. The Cynch Shakes in four flavors, have 270-280 calories, 24 grams of protein and only 3 grams of fat – when mixed with non-fat milk – The Cynch Meal in a Bar offering 2 flavors as well – have 20 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber. The Cynch Program also includes an Energy Tea and Snack Bars for those times when you need a little extra boost. So if your resolution this year is to get to a healthy weight – you should take a serious look at the Cynch Program from Shaklee!

Laura Kilty * Shaklee’s Cynch Program * 303.420.3359 * www.cynchplan.com/LauraKitly

Helen Masterson, of Masterson & Friends Communication, spoke next and related our marketing and networking to the “Tao of Pooh”. Sometimes expert advice come from where you least expect it. Winnie the Pooh will tell you that he is a “bear of a little brain”, but he is also a bear of grea wisdom because of the feelings of his friends are Pooh’s greatest concern.

As an example Pooh won’t stay in his corner of the 100 acre woods waiting for others to come to him. He would say: “You have to go to them sometimes.” So Helen adds. We need to think: who can we meet with in the next few weeks to “refresh” our network? What are we doing this week and this month to get to events nd meeting new prospects? The point is to get back out there, dust off your business cards, put a smile on your face… and remember that referral pop up in seconds.

While Pooh is visiting Eeyore, who can sometimes be difficult, because Pooh doesn’t know if Eeyore is listening. We, here in this group of women, were born to multi-task-hold and rock the baby, while cooking dinner and listen to someone who is talking to you. In this multi-tasking world there are times when we need to slow down, concentrate and really listen. In other words – stop multi-tasking, be patient and listen, so you don’t miss the point completely. When talking to someone who doesn’t appear to be listening, just slow down and be patient – they may just have a small piece of fluff in his ear.

Pooh often goes to Owl for important advice. Owl knows that social networking has become really important in our new world. The sites like MySpace and Facebook have hundreds of millions of members, how can you use these new formats in your business model. Owl says, wisely, that being online can be used as a powerful tool, but only if it’s directed in the right places. By spreading your message willy nilly across the social web won’t get you anywhere. Says Owl “Every social network has it’s own strengths and own character, by taking the time to get to know them individually is what will make the crucial difference in getting the most out o them. Owl states don’t think the social media will save you, it is just a tool in building a business.

Although Pooh is the most beloved character, there is no doubt that members of the 100 Acres Woods turn to Christopher Robin for help solving their problems. He is always able to sort out their problems and helps solve them personally. Like Christopher Robin, we should always respond to individual requests for help by brainstorming or helping someone think through their issue. Offer access to your customers and most importantly make personal gestures – pick up the phone instead of relying only on e-mail. In an age when we are dominated by technology, the human touch has great impact on your clients. Keep your contacts alive by writing a note or calling everyone in you network one or two times a year.

And Finally, “Always watch where you are going, otherwise, you may step on a piece of the 100 Acre Woods that was left out by mistake.” Pooh rarelysat around, he always moved about the 100 Acre Woods carefully and conscientiously and got everything done in due time. When plans don’t work out – well – they just didn’t – no big deal. We have all come this far and so there’s no point getting stressed out until your seams split – make a new plan and get on with it!

Progress seems to be an immediate all or nothing game, but remember that if you aren’t watching where your going and just rushing about with out a plan like Tigger, you may miss out on some wonderful opportunity.

Just a few lessons from the lovable bear who’s stuffed with fluff.

Helen Masterson * Masterson & Friends Communication * batmasterson@earthlink.net * 303.467.9680

Premier Designs Jewelry/Stampin’ Up – Colorado

connectclub — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 22:43:36 +0000

Today’s first speaker was Debbie Caperton of Premier Designs Jewelry, she started her talk discussing your style profile. Before you buy any new clothing – check the details the cut may not be right for your body type. Label size doesn’t matter so choose what is right for your body – shape + detail + color = does it look fantastic on you! Fit your biggest part first then find the accents that draw the eye away from that part, make sure it is versatile in form and function – can it be worn with other items in you closet. Then pick your accents - Premier Designs Jewelry has a wide variety of styles in jewelry that will accent your perfect holiday wardrobe with just the right amount of bling for any style. They have the traditional classy pieces to the new metals, just the right amount of sparkle for any time of year! Big rings are in this winter and Premier Designs has many different styles to choose from – the one new item that Debbie brought in are the Premier Designs watches – which are all Sieko insides – with interchangeable bands! Very fun!! If you are looking for jewelry to accent your holiday wardrobe that’s fun, fashionable and affordable give Debbie a call!!

Debbie Caperton * Premier Designs Jewelry * 303.988.7119 * rdahome@comcast.net

Our second speaker today was Ruthie Williams with Stampin’ Up – she has been doing a lot of bazaars and craft fairs this holiday season and has some cards and note card sets she wanted to share with us. She brought in a large selection of Christmas, birthday, get well and thank you cards for all of us to look at! She offers a wide variety of techniques with each card from dry and heat embossing, stamping, cut paper, sponging, glitter and medallions – making each card unique in it’s own way! They were all wonderful to look and we all enjoyed passing them around. She introduced a variety pack that has a birthday card, thank you card, get well card and sympathy card - in a really unique holder. She was offering cards for sale for 4.00 ea (card and envelope) and the variety pack at 20.00 (4 cards and envelopes). Ruthie also offers classes for creating your own cards which sound like a lot of fun – you get to learn the techniques and come a way with a card of your own with your special touch! Upcoming classes are on Dec. 12th and 19th – just contact Ruthie for details!!

Ruthie Williams * Stampin’ Up * 303.278.3520 * ruthiemarykay@gmail.com

Property Management/Massage Therapy – Colorado

connectclub — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:54:28 +0000

Genie Reynolds, of Magic Genie Realty & Property Management, was our first speaker today – she spoke about what it takes to be a property manager and why you don’t want to be one! Genie, then proceeded to explain the variety of issues the she deals with in being a property manager.

1. Repairs – when a tenant has a repair issue they call the property manager and it is the property manager’s job to make sure the repairs are made in a timely manner – communicating with the tenant as to when and how the repairs will be made.

2. Finding companies that can do repair work in a reasonable time frame – such as Genie had a sewer line repair that needed to be done quickly and she had to locate a sewer company that could respond fast.

3. Genie received a phone call on Thanksgiving Day by a people who wanted to see a property and she did the only logical thing and went out to the property.

4. A tenant who wouldn’t return phone calls – the previous property manager wasn’t doing their job and the tenant didn’t think they needed to keep in contact.

5. A tenant decided that having pets wasn’t a big deal after moving into a property managed by Magic Genie Realty, Genie had to mediate a revision of the rental agreement.

6. Genie also has to deal with Homeowners that don’t return calls as well, she finds this very frustrating as Genie doesn’t have the time to babysit homeowners and run her realty and property management company.

7. Getting rent checks – an example a rent wasn’t automatically deposited and it’s Genie’s job to make sure that check is deposited. She had to make many phone calls and find where the payment went.

8. Genie gets many calls from tenants late at night, and she has to respond to make sure everything is all right and the tenant is taken care of.

9. Magic Genie Realty and Property Management is also the go between in dealing with HOA’s – a job Genie could do without. HOA’s are very hard to deal with.

10. Routine repairs that need to be done can be very tedious and time consuming. These are just a few of the things you need to keep in mind if you are thinking about being your own property manager – if you are thinking about renting out a property you may want to think twice about doing it on your own and hire Genie from Magic Genie Realty and Property Management to handle your property for you!!!

Genie Reynolds * Magic Genie Realty and Property Management * 303.924.1320 * www.Magic GenieRealty.com

Our second speaker was not able to make our meeting so Dottie Johnson, our massage therapist showed us a couple of stretches we could do to release stress in our joints. The first was for the hips and hamstrings – you stand up and cross one foot over the other and bend down to touch the floor hold for a couple seconds and then switch. For your upper body – put your palms together in front of you and push out this will help your upper back and chest. The final stretch Dottie showed us was the carpel tunnel stretch – for this you stretch one arm out in front of you and pull back on your fingers with your other hand. We always appreciate Dottie when shows us these stretches that we can do every day to improve our day just a little bit! If you are looking for a massage therapist you can’t go wrong by calling Dottie!

Dottie Johnson * Massage Haven * 303.229.7220 * dottiejjohnson@comcast.net