Enterprising Women Connector

Life is all about a healthy balance, the positive force to balance the negative, an equal give and take. In our lifetimes on this earth, we are only given a finite amount of energy in a finite amount of time, and how we use this energy is up to us. In the words of Dr. Maya Angelou, it is our duty to “if we get-give, and if we learn-teach”, and if I may be bold to add - if we imagine-create. We can only do so much in a given period of time-a day, a week, a month. So the questions become-how do we move the needle? How do we make it all happen? And most importantly-How do we avoid FOMO-the fear of missing out?! In this article, you will be provided with a sure-fire way to achieve your goals, and see your dreams and aspirations unfold right before your eyes.

Dear Hermanas,I think we can all agree that 2016 was like a giant bowl of sancocho—it had a little bit of everything. But we can also proudly say that it was a year when so many inspiring Latinas had a groundbreaking year that opened the door for so many of us. We must always remember that when one of us wins, we all win. Their success paves the way for us all to follow in their footsteps. So let’s say bravo to these incredible Latinas who did not let fear stop them from speaking up and taking action, and let’s toast to their continued success in 2017. Their example helps all of us to move ADELANTE!

Traditionally, pearls are considered the gemstone for 30th anniversaries, and at WBDCelebrate on November 15 at Chicago’s Wintrust Great Banking Hall, the pearls flowed. Nearly 500 guests broke out their pearls for the 30th anniversary evening reception in honor of the Women’s Business Development Center. Successful business owners smilingly exchanged pearls of wisdom with each other in a festive atmosphere decorated with floral and pearl centerpieces. Even the lanyards for the nametags were pearl-like.Guests got their groove on to the sounds of funky music, highlighted by a special performance from The Black Ensemble Theater that paid tribute to the history and future of women’s business ownership. Awards were presented to Michelle Vondrasek, president of Von Technologies, Innovative Business Award; Caren Schweitzer, president, WBE of the Year Award; Pamela Jones, president, Charboy’s, Vetrepreneur of the Year Award; and Kara Yokley, president of KMY Consulting, Deborah Sawyer Rising Star Award. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle received the Government Supporter Award.

Enterprising Women readers, this is your year, the year to focus on YOU! Your dreams, your goals, your aspirations! Every year for the past few years, I have noticed a central theme to manifest itself in my life throughout that year. This same theme manifested itself in the lives of many women in my circle as well. For 2017 it will be the year of YOU—the year of empowerment!

San Diego, CA – December 8, 2016. Carlsbad, CA-based Jazzercise Inc., has been recognized for their international success and local influence by the San Diego Business Journal, the county’s premier business publication. Last month, the dance fitness brand earned the #3 slot for Women-Owned Businesses and was tapped for the SD 500, a list of top influential business leaders in San Diego County. Leading the operation is CEO and Founder, Judi Sheppard Missett, who founded the company in 1969.