WBENC JUNE 2013 PRESIDENT'S REPORT

REPORT JUNE 2013

FEATURES TOP CORPORATIONS: AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY RECOGNITION HOST COMMITTEE PROFILE: MAUREEN BEAL CEO AND CHAIRMAN, NATIONAL VAN LINES SUE BHATIA CEO, ROSE INTERNATIONAL

WBE SUCCESS STORY: NICOLE LOFTUS FOUNDER ZORCH

LORETTA ROSENMAYER FOUNDER AND CEO, INTREN, INC. CAREN SCHWEITZER PRESIDENT, CREATIVE RESOURCES

PRESIDENT’S REPORT CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THIS CALENDAR INCLUDES EVENTS HOSTED BY WBENC'S REGIONAL PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS AND STRATEGIC PARTNERS. VISIT WBENC'S ONLINE CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS. NGLCC Road Show Reception Minneapolis June 24, 2013 Imagehaus Minneapolis Minneapolis, Minn.

Click here for details.

Count Me IN Urban Rebound Los Angeles June 24-26, 2013 Skirball Cultural Center Los Angeles, Calif.

Click here for details.

WBENC 2013 National Conference & Business Fair June 25-27, 2013 Minneapolis Convention Center Minneapolis, Minn.

Click here for details.

Meet Astra @ The Hewlett Packard Company July 11, 2013 HP Roseville Campus Roseville, Calif.

Click here for details.

WBEC-West Milestone to Millions July 17, 2013 San Clemente, Calif.

Click here for details.

EDITORIAL TEAM

WPEO-DC Annual Access Reception July 18, 2013 Capital One Atrium McLean, Va. Click here for details.

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Pat Birmingham

Allison Gibson

PRODUCTION AND DESIGN Limb Design

PHOTOGRAPHY Astra Game Changers: Workshops, Awards, Matchmaker & Reception July 25, 2013 Westin St. Francis San Francisco, Calif.

Click here for details.

WPEO-NY How to do Business with Pitney Bowes and MetLife July 25, 2013 Pitney Bowes Headquarters Stamford, CT Click here to register.

WPEO DC Brown Bag Lunch with Marriott International July 16, 2013 Washington, DC Click here to register.

WOSB 5 Percent Rule- How to Navigate and Secure Federal Contracts July 22, 2013 WBDC - Chicago Chicago, Ill. Click here for details.

WBEC-PA-DE-sNJ WBE Program / MatchMaker July 17, 2013 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, New Jersey Click here for details.

2013 NGLCC National Business & Leadership Conference July 30 – August 2, 2013 Omni Dallas Hotel Dallas, Texas Click here for details.

Linda Johnson Visionista

WRITERS

Paige Adams Senior Director, Development and Corporate Relations Kim Jones Manager, Corporate Member Services Brenda Loube Principal/Founder of Corporate Fitness Works Jean Poling Contributing Writer Pamela Prince-Eason President and CEO Lynthia Romney RomneyCom, LLC Candace Waterman Chief of Staff LaKesha White Senior Compliance Manager

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

TABLE OF CONTENTS: JUNE EDITION OF THE PRESIDENT’S REPORT

NEW CORPOR ATE MEMBERS Century Link

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

4

FEATURES Top Corporations: Automotive Industry

5

Government Spotlight: National Small Business Week

10

CERTIFICATION Focus on the Forum: Heather Cox, Certify My Company, Inc.

12

WBE Success Story: Andrea Schrager, Meadowlands Consumer Center Inc. Nicole Loftus, Zorch

14 16

OPPORTUNITIES Coming Attractions: The 14th Annual WBENC National Conference & Business Fair

18

State Compensation Insurance Fund

JUNE 25-27, 2013

2013 Ernst & Young Entrepreneurial Winning Women Program: Call for Applications and Nominations Women For Wounded Warriors: The WBENC Family Steps Up For Service People And Their Families Tuck-WBENC Executive Program Brought To You By IBM

20 22 23

MINNEAPOLIS, MN MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER

RECOGNITION Host Committee Profile: Maureen Beal, CEO and Chairman National Van Lines Sue Bhatia, CEO Rose International Loretta Rosenmayer, Founder and CEO Intren, Inc. Caren Schweitzer, President Creative Resources

RESOURCES Fit To Travel

24 26 28 30

32

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

3

PRESIDENT’S

MESSAGE

BREAKING THROUGH – 3RD EDITION DEBUT!

I am proud to announce the debut of the third edition of

Opportunities abound in the procurement and supplier diversity

“Breaking Through: Creating Opportunities for America’s

landscape; this book provides the fundamentals to develop

Women and Minority Owned Businesses� at our 14th

marketing and growth strategies for Engaging with Fortune

National Conference and Business Fair which will be held

1000 companies. According to Laura Taylor, WBENC Board

in Minneapolis, June 25-27. The book, authored by Susan

Chair and Vice President, Strategic Sourcing and Procurement

Bari, truly represents our theme of Join Forces. Succeed

Operations, Pitney Bowes: “It’s incredible how the book aligns

Together. Contributions from our community, Corporate and

with the top of the mind questions that women, Women’s

Government Members and WBEs are woven throughout the

Business Enterprises, or supplier diversity managers might

pages creating a resource that has value for all – from the

have. Now we see increasingly more organizations outside of

newest entrepreneur to the supplier diversity professional to

procurement carrying the mission of supplier diversity from a

seasoned business owners. All WBENC-certified WBEs and

leadership perspective.� To hear more perspectives from Laura

Corporate and Government Members attending the conference

and others, click here.

will receive a copy of the book, thanks to the generous support provided by Dell.

“Breaking Through� is a valuable Resource which covers a broad range of topics including supplier diversity programs,

WBENC has grown substantially over the past 16 years and

certification, marketing strategy, getting and keeping the

with that growth a rich foundation of resources, programs and

contract and many more. Be sure to stop by the WBENC

partnerships has been built. The cornerstone of our CORE

Opportunity World (WOW) Shop and Bookstore during the

values, Certification, has been a driving force in our success to

Conference where the book will be available. Susan Bari will

unite our Corporate and Government Members with thousands

be signing books at the store on Wednesday, June 26.

of highly skilled women-owned businesses. Throughout the book stories exemplify the role certification can and does

SEE YOU IN MINNEAPOLIS!

play in business strategy and growth. These impressive case studies include Tara Abraham, Chairwoman & CEO, Accel inc., Rebecca Boegnik, CEO & Chairman of the Board, Neutral

Best,

Posture, Inc., Cathi Coan, President & CEO, Techway Services,

Pamela Prince-Eason

Patty Klein, President & CEO, APlus Meetings & Incentives,

WBENC President and CEO

Ranjini Poddar, President, Artech Information Systems, Janet Crenshaw Smith, President, Ivy Planning Group, LLC, Camilla Sullivan, Principal, Visionista, Cindy Funaro Towers, President & CEO, JuriSolutions, and Nancy Williams, Principal, ASAP Solutions Group, LLC.

THIRD EDITION

BREAKING THROUGH Creating opportunities for America’s women and minority-owned businesses

DFOUVSF t "MDBUFM -VDFOU t "5 5 t "WJT #VEHFU (SPVQ *OD t #BOL PG "NFSJDB t #1 "NFS t $IFWSPO t $ISZTMFS (SPVQ --$ t %FMM *OD t &OFSHZ 'VUVSF )PMEJOHT t &SOTU :PVOH YYPO .PCJM $PSQPSBUJPO t 'PSE .PUPS $PNQBOZ t (FOFSBM .PUPST $PNQBOZ --$ t *# IOTPO +PIOTPO t ,FMMZ 4FSWJDFT *OD t .BDZ T *OD t .BOQPXFS(SPVQ t .BSSJPUU *OUFS . .BDZ OBM *OD t 0GGJDF %FQPU t 1BDJGJD (BT BOE &MFDUSJD $PNQBOZ t 1FQTJ$P *OD t 1GJ[FS *O OBM *OD t 0GGJDF %FQPU t 1BDJGJD (BT B BT JD $ JD $PNQBOZ t 1FQTJ$P *OD t 1GJ[FS *O OFZ #PXFT *OD t 4IFMM t 5BSHFU $PS PS P PDB $PMB $PNQBOZ t 6OJUFE "JSMJOF D OFZ #PXFT *OD t 4IFMM t 5BSHFU $PSQPSBUJPO t 5IF $PDB $PMB $PNQBOZ t 6OJUFE "JSMJOF 4 t 7FSJ[PO t 8BM .BSU 4UPSFT *OD * t "DDFOUVSF t "MDBUFM -VDFOU DBUFM -VDFOU t "5 5 t "WJT #VE D PVQ *OD t #BOL PG "NFSJDB t #1 "NFSJDB *OD t $IFWSPO t $ISZTMFS (SPVQ --$ t %FMM *O 1 O

C FSHZ 'VUVSF )PMEJOHT t &SOTU :PVOH --1 t &YYPO .PCJM $PSQPSBUJPO t 'PSE .PUPS $P OZ t (FOFSBM .PUPST $PNQBOZ --$ t *#. t +PIOTPO +PIOTPO t ,FMMZ 4FSWJDFT *OD t .BD I t .BOQPXFS(SPVQ t .BSSJPUU *OUFSOBUJPOBM *OD t 0GGJDF %FQPU t 1BDJGJD (BT BOE &MFD *O D NQBOZ t 1FQTJ$P *OD t 1GJ[FS *OD O D t 4IFMM t 5BSHFU $PSQPSBUJPO t 5 NQBOZ t 1FQTJ$P *OD t 1GJ[FS *OD t 1JUOFZ #PXFT *OD t 4IFMM t 5BSHFU $PSQPSBUJPO t 5 DB $PMB $PNQBOZ t 6OJUFE "JSMJOFT t 614 t 7FSJ[PO t 8BM .BSU 4UPSFT *OD t "DDFOUVS DB $PMB $PNQBOZ t 6OJUFE "JSMJOFT F t 8BM .BSU 4UPSFT *OD t "DDFOUVS BUFM -VDFOU t "5 5 t "WJT #VEHFU (SPVQ *OD t #BOL PG "NFSJDB t #1 "NFSJDB *OD t $I ( L t $ISZTMFS (SPVQ --$ t %FMM *OD t &OFSHZ 'VUVSF )PMEJOHT t &SOTU :PVOH --1 t &YY t CJM $PSQPSBUJPO t 'PSE .PUPS $PNQBOZ t (FOFSBM .PUPST $PNQBOZ --$ t *#. t +PIOTP NQ Q IOTPO t ,FMMZ 4FSWJDFT *OD t .BDZ T *OD t .BOQPXFS(SPVQ t .BSSJPUU *OUFSOBUJPOBM *O Z U JDF %FQPU t 1BDJGJD (BT BOE &MFDUSJD $PNQBOZ t 1FQTJ$P *OD t 1GJ[FS *OD t 1JUOFZ #PX t 4IFMM t 5BSHFU $PSQPSBUJPO t 5IF $PDB $PMB $PNQBOZ t 6OJUFE "JSMJOFT t 614 t 7FSJ[ 5I 8BM .BSU 4UPSFT *OD t "DDFOUVSF t "MDBUFM -VDFOU t "5 5 t "WJT #VEHFU (SPVQ *OD t #B W "NFSJDB t #1 "NFSJDB *OD t $IFWSPO t $ISZTMFS (SPVQ --$ t %FMM *OD t &OFSHZ 'VUVSF )P T t &SOTU :PVOH --1 t &YYPO .PCJM $PSQPSBUJPO t 'PSE .PUPS $PNQBOZ t (FOFSBM .PU .

NQBOZ --$ t *#. t +PIOTPO +PIOTPO t ,FMMZ 4FSWJDFT *OD t .BDZ T *OD t .BOQPX PVQ t .BSSJPUU *OUFSOBUJPOBM *OD t 0GGJDF %FQPU t 1BDJGJD (BT BOE &MFDUSJD $PNQBOZ t 1 D P *OD t 1GJ[FS *OD t 1JUOFZ #PXFT *OD t 4IFMM t 5BSHFU $PSQPSBUJPO t 5IF $PDB $PMB $P X P OZ t 6OJUFE "JSMJOFT t 614 t 7FSJ[PO t 8BM .BSU 4UPSFT *OD t "DDFOUVSF t "MDBUFM -VDFO 5 t "WJT #VEHFU (SPVQ *OD t #BOL PG "NFSJDB t #1 "NFSJDB *OD t $IFWSPO t $ISZT PVQ --$ t %FMM *OD t &OFSHZ 'VUVSF )PMEJOHT t &SOTU :PVOH --1 t &YYPO .PCJM $PSQPSBU PSE .PUPS $PNQBOZ t (FOFSBM .PUPST $PNQBOZ --$ t *#. t +PIOTPO +PIOTPO t ,F "Dell understands the importance of working with a diverse supply chain that represents our local markets and delivers products and services that give people everywhere the power to do more. We depend on the contributions of diverse suppliers to support our teams and serve our customers�

Michael S. Dell Chairman & CEO, Dell

SUSAN PHILLIPS BARI

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

FEATURES

TOP CORPORATIONS: AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

For the first time this year, three U.S.-based automotive companies were named WBENC 2012 Top Corporations for Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs): Chrysler LLC, Ford Motor Company and General Motors Company. At the same time, the U.S. auto market was delivering innovation, strong results and leadership in women’s business development.

The following Q&A Roundtable offers some of their insights on these accomplishments, what lies ahead for the industry and opportunities for WBEs in providing them with products and services.

Q.

This is a time of real triumph for the U.S. auto industry. You have strong

financials and your cars are successful. Where do you see growth coming from now?

General Motors Company: GM is well positioned to take advantage of growing markets around the world. Ten years ago, 70 percent of Chevrolet sales were inside the United States. By the end of 2012, more than 60 percent were sold outside the United States.

Today, the company’s greatest strengths are in our market-leading positions in the United States and China, and both markets are in the midst of significant growth.

The Chinese market could reach 30 million units annually by 2020, up from 19 million in 2011. In this critical market, our largest brands, Buick, Wuling and Chevrolet all set sales records in 2012.

Cadillac posted modest growth and our new Baojun brand had sales of more than 84,000 units in its first full year in the marketplace. To take advantage of this rapidly growing market, we plan to introduce more than 10 new or upgraded products in China on average each year through 2016.

In the U.S., during the course of 2012 and 2013, 70 percent of our nameplates will be redesigned or all new, including the stunning new Chevrolet Corvette, the Cadillac ATS and the new Buick Verano and Encore, which are entering new segments where we’ve not competed before. Our most important launches in 2013 will be our completely redesigned Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra full-size pickups – cornerstone vehicles to our success in North America.

Ford Motor Company: Over the last few years, we have implemented the ONE Ford plan that focuses on four key goals: creating a great place to work; developing a capable and effective workforce; aligning our organizational structure with our global business footprint and providing the “people”-related processes to support our workforce.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

5

Our ONE Ford plan continues to deliver, and we are absolutely focused on building great products, creating a stronger business and contributing to a better world.

Our plan for growth in the U.S. is centered on four key vehicle segments including subcompact, compact cars, small utility vehicles and midsize sedans – what we call the super segment.

These four vehicle segments, taken as a whole, represent more than 50 percent of total new vehicle sales in the U.S. In 2004, super segment sales were only 35 percent of the market.

We continue to see tremendous growth from our newest products which include our all-new Fusion, Escape and our new line of hybrid vehicles. Late this year, we’ll have a new Fiesta compact car equipped with our 1.0 liter EcoBoost hitting dealer lots, which we believe will be the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid vehicle in its class. We are also entering into a cyclical recovery in construction which is creating stronger demand for our F-Series pickups. Our plan has been to provide strong diversity in our product offering, allowing us to meet the changing needs of our customers.

Chrysler Group LLC: We truly are grateful to be in a position of market share growth. Our quality indicators continue to improve as measured by third party assessments demonstrating our commitment to flawless execution.

At Chrysler Group, we are coordinating activities globally to build momentum in emerging markets. Our alliance with Fiat gives us a global distribution network, access to international markets and better positions us to target these opportunities.

Q.

Women’s businesses have been vital partners to many of you. How are WBEs

contributing to your success?

Chrysler Group LLC: Chrysler values the contribution of our WBE suppliers to add to the diversity of our team and assist in our delivery of exceptional products to diverse customers. Certified WBEs are a significant part of Chrysler Group’s supply chain at both the Tier 1 and Tier 2 supplier levels. We have numerous WBE standouts in Chrysler’s Supply Chain. Most notably, Dakkota Integrated Systems LLC was recently honored as Chrysler Group’s Supplier of the Year for both Quality and World Class Manufacturing. There are many other notable WBEs who partner with Chrysler to successfully provide parts (GAS/Dura, Dakkota), services (Ryan Industries) and logistics (Rush Trucking). Andra M. Rush is Chairman and CEO of Rush Trucking and Chairman of Dakkota Integrated Systems LLC.

Ford Motor Company: In 2012, Ford spent $1.2 billion with certified WBEs. This represented a 13.2 percent increase from the $1.06 billion spent in 2011. Since 2009, Ford has more than doubled its sourcing with WBEs. The increase in 2012 includes higher spending with WBEs that are playing a vital role in our expanding portfolio of high-quality, safe, fuel-efficient products equipped with smart technologies and to support facility expansions.

Our partnership with WBEs strengthens our supply network, creates jobs and economic growth for the communities we serve, and supports the goal of ONE Ford – profitable growth for all, including our suppliers.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

General Motors Company: WBEs contribute to our success in a number of ways, but one of the most important is that they help us stay at the forefront of innovation and new technologies. Having diverse suppliers enable us to have diverse solutions, which can ensure we are providing the best products and services to our customers.

Q.

What gaps in your supply chain and/or diversity efforts would you look to

WBEs to fill?

Ford Motor Company: Ford’s Supplier Diversity Development (SDD) program aims to source at least 10 percent of U.S. purchases from minority, women and veteran-owned businesses annually. WBEs offer a wealth of businesses that can help Ford continue to grow as a global automotive leader.

WBEs are creating new sustainable products and technologies that help us meet our goal to reduce our environmental footprint while at the same time accelerate development of advanced, fuel-efficient vehicle technologies around the world as needed.

Open sourcing areas include: Castings and forging; Electrical components and systems; Machinery and tooling (i.e. racks and dunnage); and Precision machining. As business opportunities emerge, certified WBEs are encouraged to register and submit a profile on the following website: www.fordsdd.com.

Chrysler Group LLC: We are pursuing a range of technological solutions to address fuel economy including: advanced engine, transmission and driveline designs, diesel technology, compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric propulsion. By staying on the forefront of these technologies, WBEs can assist in our pursuit of best-in-class fuel economy.

General Motors Company: We are always looking for opportunities to improve our business. Working with suppliers that have an expertise in Electrical & HVAC components or parts (that go on the vehicle), parts and services for alternative fuel and electric vehicles and green technologies are at the top of our list. Forwardthinking suppliers have no further to look than http://www.gmsupplierdiversity.com.

Q.

What are the most exciting ways that you are tackling the impact of energy costs

on the automobile business? How can WBEs participate?

Chrysler Group LLC: At Chrysler Group, we are committed to minimizing the impact our products and processes have on the global environment, and to positively affect the people and communities where we do business. The values of sustainability guide our decisions and actions as we strive to build a more secure future for our employees, customers, suppliers, dealers and society as a whole.

One way Chrysler Group is tackling energy costs is the implementation of ISO 14001 and World Class Manufacturing. These programs focus on eliminating waste in all areas of our operations as well as reducing consumption of natural resources.

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

7

The Diversity Supplier Development team continuously scouts WBEs offering contributions in these areas and consistently advocates for the inclusion of WBEs as bid opportunities arise.

General Motors Company: Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac are meeting consumers’ need for fuel efficiency in a number of ways. By increasing the usage of direct injection technology, where gas is directly injected into the combustion chamber, the engine performs more efficiently and consumes less gas.

Another engine technology that has increased the efficiency of GM engines is the use of variable valve timing. This technology controls the amount and timing of air intake into the engine, reducing fuel consumption. And, for those who drive a larger vehicle equipped with a V-8, GM’s Active Fuel Management system shuts down four cylinders when the added power is not needed, increasing fuel efficiency.

Lightweight materials, like high-strength steel and aluminum, are also being incorporated into many GM vehicles to improve fuel efficiency, without sacrificing safety.

GM is also increasingly becoming a leader in electrified vehicle technology. Our eAssist technology, found on the Buick LaCrosse and Regal, as well as the Chevrolet Malibu Eco and soon to arrive on the Chevrolet Impala, improves fuel economy by upwards of 25 percent by using a small electric motor to boost the engine at higher speeds. Extended range electric vehicles (EREVs) like the Chevrolet Volt and Cadillac ELR and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) like the Chevrolet Spark EV give customers electrified choices to suit their transportation lifestyle.

Ford Motor Company: Ford invested billions in researching and developing new fuel-efficient products, engines, transmissions and electrified vehicles, even during the depths of the economic downturn. Ford is further growing customers’ power of choice, offering eight U.S. vehicles that deliver 40 mpg or more – double our number versus 2011 and more than any other full-line automaker.

Ford is delivering on our promise to give fuel-efficiency-minded customers the power of choice.

The company now offers a lineup of five electrified vehicles including Ford Focus Electric, Ford Fusion Hybrid and Ford C-MAX Hybrid; plus two plug-in hybrids, Ford C-MAX Energi and Ford Fusion Energi.

As a key contributor to Ford’s aggressive fuel economy and emissions strategy, EcoBoost technologies use turbocharging and direct gasoline injection to boost engine output, reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency by as much as 20 percent and emissions of up to 15 percent. Ford has sold more than 600,000 EcoBoost-equipped vehicles globally since the range was launched with the 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost in 2009. Ford added the 2.0-liter EcoBoost in 2010, the 1.6-liter EcoBoost followed in 2011, and last year the 1.0-liter EcoBoost was launched, winning the 2012 “International Engine of the Year” award based on votes cast by journalists around the world and presented by Engine Technology International Magazine.

By the end of this year, nearly 80 percent of the company’s global nameplates will be available with fuel-saving EcoBoost technology.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Q.

Employment is still top of mind for most Americans. Where do you see future

jobs coming from - and how will the requirements be different?

Ford Motor Company: It is critical to keep up with emerging technology in manufacturing and IT infrastructure, as well as the customer demand. For example, there is a strong push towards more in-vehicle controls and “Infotainment” to address the consumer’s increased need to stay connected.

Companies will need talent who can address and anticipate these needs. The market today for this talent is extremely competitive due to the increasing pace of technological change, product lineup changes and volumes across the industry.

Today, companies need employees who have the 21st century skills necessary to keep them competitive, including global awareness, creativity and innovation, critical thinking, systems thinking, teamwork, technical literacy, social and cross-cultural skills.

General Motors Company: General Motors is dedicated to designing, building and selling the world’s best vehicles. We will continue to meet the needs of customers with products that include the technology they desire; the fuel efficiency they need; and the performance and quality they expect. Like us, suppliers will need talented individuals from a broad spectrum of disciplines who can bring cost-effective, innovative solutions to the table.

Chrysler Group LLC: There is great opportunity in the automotive sector for innovative solutions in the areas of fuel efficiency and emissions, safety and driver assistance, convenience and connectivity. We see an opportunity for job growth with the companies that help us succeed in bringing innovative solutions to market. http://app.suppliergateway.com/chrysler/Login.aspx

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

9

FEATURES

GOVERNMENT SPOTLIGHT: NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS WEEK

National Small Business Week began in 1963 when President Kennedy issued a proclamation to recognize the contributions of American entrepreneurs and small business owners. Since its inception, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has made National Small Business Week one of its signature events in Washington, DC. In celebrating the 50th anniversary, the event structure has changed to focus more on providing tools to help the small business succeed in the marketplace.

Events will take place throughout the week of June 17th in five (5) different locations.

In the mornings, there will be panels of speakers discussing how to maximize opportunities followed by breakout sessions in the afternoon. Activities will include forums discussing the small business landscape, business coaching services, matchmaking events as well as networking opportunities. SBA Deputy Administrator Marie Johns will address the attendees at each venue. The week will culminate in Washington, DC at the Renaissance Hotel with the awards ceremony where the Small Business Person of the Year will be announced.

If you are not able to physically attend, there will also be daily online forums available via Google+ Hangouts discussing subjects such as exporting and access to capital.

More than 2,000 attendees are expected with the same amount participating online.

Online registration is available. Please plan to participate at a location near you.

June 20 June 21

Pittsburgh, PA Washington, DC

For more details on activities at each location and to register, please visit: www.sba.gov/nsbw

build your own

The Bracelet as individual as you are.

WBENC has created the Legacy Bracelet as a statement of your participation and ongoing support of our organization.

Each beautiful hand-crafted sterling silver bead represents different aspects of WBENC that have made it the progressive and respected organization that it is today.

Whether you are new to certification, membership or supplier diversity and women’s entrepreneurship, you can build your own beautiful piece of jewelry that will tell the story of how you’re engaged with WBENC.

Isn’t it time to start your Legacy®?

Order Your WBENC Legacy® Online www.thedwgroup.com/wbenclegacy 1-800-704-0546

CERTIFICATION

FOCUS ON THE FORUM: HEATHER COX, CERTIFY MY COMPANY, INC. Heather Cox is the Chief Operating Officer, Director of Operations and a Co-Founder of Certify My Company, Inc., a consultancy that is the “Go-To” resource to facilitate the certification process for WomenOwned Businesses while helping to fulfill diversity initiatives for the corporations/government agencies that they serve. As Procurement and Supplier Diversity services reach the next stage of evolution, Fortune 500 and 1000 companies will closely examine and monitor the spend of their diverse suppliers to ensure that Supplier Diversity is equally as important to them.

The idea behind Certify My Company, Inc. was inspired at a networking event which Heather Cox attended during her transition from a corporate role to one as a wife, mother and entrepreneur. Cox listened and responded to a need being expressed by qualified women-owned diverse businesses for help with completing certification/ recertification processes.

“ I met some amazingly successful women entrepreneurs and discovered that there was a need for a service that navigates the certification process and supports women-owned businesses. It was from that experience that Certify My Company was born in 2009. Consumers have a plethora of choices. A differentiated marketing strategy is key for any business. Being a certified diverse supplier with appropriate certification can be an essential differentiator and provides a competitive advantage when vying for new or repeat business opportunities,” Cox said.

Certify My Company supports the total process of certification and/or recertification from inception by determining certification eligibility, assembling and submitting the necessary paperwork, and monitoring the application package through approval.

Certify My Company professionals coach their clients on how to be noticed by corporations and assist them with registering on appropriate Supplier Diversity websites, providing access to participation in nationally recognized certification programs and opportunities for business growth.

Certify My Company works with the supplier diversity community as a whole, helping all parties connect including corporations, government entities and WBE to WBE.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT “ Certified companies can succeed at a much higher rate than those that are not.

That is why I am so committed to this process,” said Cox. Minority businesses are looking for additional opportunities to do business with Fortune 500 companies and federal government agencies. Many of the Fortune 500 companies have annual diversity spend goals which have been established through their supplier diversity initiatives. These goals serve to promote the inclusion of diverse suppliers into their supply chain. Having a third party diversity certification validates your credentials and is integral to winning these contracts. Large organizations can ONLY count spend with CERTIFIED suppliers and look for opportunities to use familiar suppliers if they meet this criterion.

Cox shares trends that she has observed in her industry over the past few years intending to bring awareness and inspire growth for WBENC Certified-WBEs HEATHER COX Chief Operating Officer Director of Operations Co-Founder Certify My Company, Inc.

in new ways: • Tier 2 opportunities are an important part of commerce that creates a ripple effect. Prime suppliers often have requirements established by their Fortune 1000/500 clients to subcontract to certified diverse businesses. There are many opportunities to prosper as a Tier 2 supplier and add great value to the supply chain of these companies.

• When responding to RFPs, WBEs are often asked to disclose their supplier diversity spend with other certified minority businesses. Establishing an internal supplier diversity program is essential for all WBE certified companies.

• Being a prime supplier/direct vendor is only one of several opportunities available to Certified-Women Owned businesses. Imagine if 11,000 WBEs did business with 11,000 WBEs – a WOW figure! Imagine creating a WBENC Supply Chain in which virtually every product or service that is created or delivered to an end user represents the cumulative efforts of many businesses which represent the power and resources of WBENC Certified Women-Owned businesses.

• Create WBE Partnerships: Join Forces. Succeed Together.

Cox‘s enthusiasm, optimism, advocacy and growing involvement with WBENC are a testament to the value that she has experienced since obtaining certification in 2011 as a WBENC Certified Women-Owned business. She is a member of The Women’s Enterprise Forum and serves on The Marketing Committee. Cox views WBENC as a family that works together, encourages success and offers to contribute however needed to promote success.

“ It’s like going home each time you attend a WBENC activity or event. You are greeted by a sincere, action oriented group of women who are focused on helping others to achieve success and to thrive. It is about networks and connections that support you and your business in extraordinary ways.”

For more information on Certify My Company, Inc., visit: http://certifymycompany.org

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

13

CERTIFICATION

WBE SUCCESS STORY: ANDREA SCHRAGER, MEADOWLANDS CONSUMER CENTER INC. Andrea Schrager, founder and CEO of Meadowlands Consumer Center Inc., receives the NJBIZ 2013 Best 50 Women in Business award in recognition of her accomplishments, community involvement and advocacy for women in business in New Jersey.

Andrea Schrager, founder and CEO of Meadowlands Consumer Center Inc. (DBA Consumer Centers of New York and New Jersey), a Global Marketing Research and

Consumer Centers

Consulting Company headquartered in Secaucus, N.J. with offices in New York City, was recently recognized as one of the 2013 Best 50 Women in Business in New Jersey

by NJBIZ, a weekly New Jersey business publication. The 8th Annual Awards Gala was held at The Palace in Somerset Park, New Jersey. NJBIZ’ Best 50 Women in Business Program honors 50 of New Jersey’s most accomplished women who have

Pantone 2736 C

been making headlines in their field with professional and company achievement; community involvement and advocacy for women, making up the core criteria for selection.

“ I am very much honored to be recognized with this prestigious award,” Schrager stated. “There are so many successful businesswomen in New Jersey who I know and with whom we do business that to be spotlighted in this way is astonishing.”

NJBIZ’ publisher, Thomas Curtin, shares his delight in honoring this year’s award ANDREA SCHRAGER Founder and CEO Meadowlands Consumer Center Inc.

recipients for their business acumen:

“ We are truly fortunate to have the opportunity to recognize Andrea Schrager,” said Curtin. “As a business and community leader, she is constantly redefining success within and outside the business arena. On behalf of NJBIZ, we would like to thank and congratulate her and the other forty nine outstanding women for their dedication to New Jersey’s future.”

Schrager started her company over 25 years ago, working from the Harmon Cove Clubhouse also located in Secaucus, New Jersey until her office construction was completed. After placing just one ad, one time in one newspaper and receiving just one response, Schrager launched her company. Since its founding, the company has grown significantly, expanding into mid-town Manhattan in 2006.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Now with over 50 employees, the company services a broad spectrum of clients from Fortune 500 companies to international advertising agencies. Consumer Centers’ mission is to “unlock the inner voice of the customer” and consistently deliver excellence to clients globally. Through the use of thought-provoking and innovative marketing research methodologies, the company identifies the critical information that their clients need to make the most informed product and marketing decisions possible to stay ahead of the ever-changing global marketplace.

“ I always wanted to be an entrepreneur and believed that I would be successful,” said Schrager. “But I couldn’t have done it without my team. So this award is not just mine, it’s an award for everyone at Consumer Centers of New York and New Jersey.”

Ms. Schrager is an active Member of The Women’s Enterprise Leadership Forum of WBENC; Consumer Center Inc. has been WBENC-certified since 2002.

“ I found out about WBENC and certification through a client,” Ms. Schrager stated. “They had established a supplier diversity program and were looking to their preferred vendors to see who might qualify. They helped me through the initial process and we continue to work with them.”

Being certified has helped the company in both tangible and intangible ways. Schrager has developed deep friendships over the years with peers to whom she can turn for advice in growing her business.

“ My company has been certified for over 12 years, and I can’t say enough about the benefits of certification. If you are best in class and offer a real point of difference, certification can help you get recognized,” Schrager commented.

“But ultimately, it’s up to you and your team to deliver.”

In addition to leading her company, Schrager actively participates on several local and national councils including: The (WBENC) Women’s Enterprise Forum; the Board of Directors of the Meadowlands Regional Chamber; The International Business Council of which she Chairs; NJDEC, part of the U.S. Department of Commerce; and the Leadership Council for Seton Hall University, where she serves on the Women’s Leadership Initiative.

For more information about Meadowlands Consumer Center, Inc., visit their website: www.consumercenters.com Ms. Schrager can be reached at Andrea@ConsumerCenters.com

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

15

CERTIFICATION

WBE SUCCESS STORY: NICOLE LOFTUS, ZORCH Nicole Loftus, the Founder of Zorch, is a “regular” at the annual Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) National Conference and Business Fair (NCBF).

Loftus was a WBE co-chair and prominent exhibitor at the 2011 NCBF held in Las Vegas, Nevada. We look forward to visiting with Nicole and the Zorch exhibit in Minneapolis at this year’s NCBF.

Zorch, Loftus’s brainchild, is the exclusive supplier of branded merchandise for some of the largest corporations in the world, including American Airlines, American Red Cross, and Chevron to name a few. Collaborating with trusted domestic suppliers, Zorch operates as a full-service branded merchandise agency delivering exceptional products to clients through fully customized eStores. Zorch eliminates the need for distributors by connecting Fortune 500 companies directly with product manufacturers.

Nicole came up with what some called a “crazy” idea while working for a traditional promotional products distributor, and seeing her clients continually receive products that arrived late, were of subpar quality, and had incorrectly sized imprints. Loftus avowed that a brand is an asset that needs to be protected; she understood that your brand is your business. Putting a company’s logo--their brand identity--on a product that doesn’t measure up to the quality of the brand dilutes it, and does not represent the company at its best. With that, Zorch entered into--and evolved--the world of promotional products.

NICOLE LOFTUS Founder Zorch

Launched in 2002, Nicole initially contacted manufacturers and created a beta portal site. She also took the advice of Linda Darragh, who at that time was serving as the Vice President of the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC), to certify as a minority supplier so that she could be considered by large companies seeking to enhance their supplier diversity record. Zorch became WBENC-certified in 2004.

“ Zorch is forever indebted to the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) in Chicago. Hedy Ratner and her team were instrumental in our first bank financing as well as investor and client introductions,” said Loftus.

Loftus has become an industry leader with a proven, profitable model that has changed the way people view, use, and procure branded merchandise. Over 2 million end users source branded merchandise and internal signage through Zorch-powered online portals, and save millions of dollars in the process. Since 2011, Zorch has participated in 5 RFPs, and won every contract.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Nicole is recognized as a leader in the advertising merchandise industry. Her reputation was recognized by Chicago Woman Magazine as one of 2012’s “Women to Watch.” Inc. Magazine deemed Zorch the 8th fastest growing company in America, and the #1 woman-led company in the country.

Not only is Nicole recognized as a corporate game changer, but she is also active in several women’s leadership initiatives. Loftus created a program with Chicago Public Schools to assist high school students with finding their entrepreneurial spirit.

Through it all, Nicole is quick to point out the role being a WBE and WBENC-certification has played throughout the years:

“ WBENC-certification has been an important part of Zorch, and has played a different role at different times throughout the company’s evolution. During the start-up phase, the talented team at the WBDC helped with financial projections, bank introductions, and investor relations. Then, when we started generating interest with our first clients, being WBENC-certified helped give us credibility with an additional group of champions (supplier diversity professionals) endorsing us. Now we are a mature company about to scale, and it’s a point of pride to be a WBENC-Certified Women-Owned Business, setting an example as a company with an innovative model saving clients millions, and protecting the world’s most valuable brands,” said Nicole.

Being WBENC-certified should not automatically denote a company as a “small business.” Corporate sponsors that attend WBENC events should not assume that a WBENC-certified business is too small to handle their company’s volume and can only be a 2nd tier supplier. Zorch has more infrastructure than non-WBE, billion dollar businesses. “Zorched” suppliers boast 120 facilities across the US, and employ over 200,000 American workers. Thanks to Zorch, that number is continually growing.

Loftus shares some sound advice:

“ When vying for business opportunities, Procurement teams need to see that your company offers a compelling alternative to the competition which should be relayed in your value proposition irrespective of your WBE status. Use the WBENC organization and corporate supplier diversity teams as a networking tool when you need an introduction to a decision-maker or advocate,” said Loftus.

Nicole wants you to remember one more thing: “Always make time to give back to WBENC and other WBE’s every chance you get; serving others is a vital part of a healthy business.”

For more information on Zorch, please visit: http://zorch.com WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

17

OPPORTUNITIES

C OMING ATTRACTIONS: THE 14 TH ANNUAL WBENC NATIONAL CONFERENCE & BUSINESS FAIR JOIN FORCES. SUCCEED TOGETHER.

Thousands of women’s business enterprises (WBEs), Corporate and Government members and others will convene in Minneapolis for the 14th WBENC National Conference & Business Fair from June 25-27 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. There are many new additions to our agenda this year highlighted below. For a complete schedule including dates, times and locations click here. If you missed the online registration period, do not fret! Onsite registration opens at 11:00 a.m. CST on Monday, June 24.

If this is your first WBENC National Conference, be sure to attend the First-Time Conference Attendee Orientation on Monday, June 24, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. at the Minneapolis Convention Center, Lecture Hall 1. This session is designed for first-time conference attendees, new Corporate Members, new WBENC-Certified WBEs or anyone looking to maximize their understanding of how to best connect while at the WBENC National Conference & Business Fair. With an eye towards how WBENC programs support your company and your business goals, this session will cover the strategies, tools and tactics to make your experience a success.

LISTEN! SPEAKERS FORUM KEYNOTE: Todd Cohen, author and President of the National Speaker Association, Philadelphia Chapter, works with professionals who want to create a sales culture so that more sales happen. Since 1984, Todd has coached and led sales teams to deliver more than $700 million in revenue for leading companies including Xerox, Gartner Group, ThomsonReuters and LexisNexis. Todd knows how to bridge the gap between sales training you may already be doing and your next level of sales performance, firmly built on a sales culture designed to multiply your results and magnify your investment in traditional sales training.

EXECUTIVE PANEL: Join us on Tuesday as six high-profile Corporate and WBE executives share their perspectives on leadership and personal development. Learn how different leadership styles and skills contributed to both personal

and business growth for these exceptional women. This panel will be moderated by Pamela Prince-Eason, President and CEO of WBENC. The panelists include: Juliana Chugg, President, Meals Division, General Mills, Inc.; Julie Francis, Chief Commercial Officer, Coca-Cola Refreshments; Sarena Lin, Corporate Vice President, Strategy and Business Development, Cargill; Annette Miller, Senior Vice President, Merchandising Grocery, Target; Ranjini Poddar, President, Artech Information Systems, LLC; and Cassandra Sanford, CEO and Co-Founder, KellyMitchell Group.

CONFERENCE KEYNOTE: Lidia Bastianich, our Thursday Keynote Speaker, is one of the best loved chefs on television, a best-selling cookbook author, restaurateur and owner of a flourishing food and entertainment business. Lidia has married her two passions in life – her family and food – to create multiple culinary endeavors alongside her two children, Joseph and Tanya. Lidia has authored many cookbooks, owns six restaurants, an entertainment company, an artisanal Italian food and wine marketplace (in partnership with her son, Mario Batali and Oscar Farinetti), and the cookware and serving ware line, Lidia’s Kitchen. Along with her daughter and son-in-law, Corrado Manuali, Lidia launched Nonna Foods as a platform to distribute an array of both existing and new LIDIA’s food products.

LEARN! WORKSHOPS This year there will be 27 workshops covering a broad array of topics, across three tracks – Building & Honing Skills, Building Capacity and Leveraging Expertise. Some of the new additions to our programming include: Ask the Experts: A “mini fair” where WBEs can visit various industry experts from our Corporate member community and learn about trends, challenges and the landscape of the automotive, energy, pharmaceutical, utilities and retail industries.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Planning for the Future: This workshop presented by MetLife will explore succession planning, exit strategies and other considerations for thinking through what is next for your company.

Learn how to protect yourself from potential risks and position your company for the future at this interactive session.

Best in Class Supplier Diversity Second Tier Reporting: Criteria, Development, & Metrics: Avis Budget Group, Inc. and General Motors, along with WBE/DBE partner, AppliedInfo Partners, will demonstrate key criteria, how to get started and priority metrics for a successful second tier reporting program for corporate partners. This workshop also reinforces the importance of attaining certification when working with corporate partners.

Doing Well While Doing Good: This session, presented by Michelle Sourie Robinson, President, Give & Receive, is designed to give you practical tools for creating your company’s charitable giving plan. Learn to design a successful strategy that aligns with your company’s culture and mission.

Should I Consider Entering a Strategic Alliance or Joint Venture?

Many WBEs look to collaboration to increase capacity, to provide scale and to access global markets. Might a mutually beneficial relationship with another organization be in your future?

Creating a Board of Advisors – Who’s Got Your Back?

Learn why an advisory board might be the right tool to help you grow your business. Marissa Levin, WBE and CEO of two companies, Information Experts and Successful Culture, will not only explain the “why” but also the “how.” She is the author of Built to SCALE: How Top Companies Create Breakthrough Growth Through Exceptional Advisory Boards.

Be sure to review all of the workshop options and create a personalized conference schedule: NETWORK! THE BUSINESS FAIR On Wednesday hundreds of exhibitors are ready to highlight their businesses and opportunities. The Business Fair Floor is truly a networking “gold mine.” As you plan your strategy for this exciting day, be sure to include a visit to the Business Fair Technology Classrooms sponsored by Best Buy and Verizon respectively. At the Best Buy booth (#1413), the famous Geek Squad will be on hand to discuss solutions for small and medium businesses. Verizon, in booth 1321, is featuring a day-long series of “Tech Talks” on topics ranging from Smart Accessories You Can’t Live Without to How To Drive Down Costs and Drive Up Profits with Mobile Fleet Management.

A map of the Business Fair is available here SHOP! THE WBENC OPPORTUNITY WORLD SHOP AND BOOKSTORE Conveniently located on the main level near registration and the exhibit hall, our store will feature books, including the new 3rd edition of Breaking Through by Susan Bari, released at this conference; jewelry, our Legacy Bracelet and beads, including the new “Mini Apple” bead and “Love to Shop” charm which embody the spirit of Minneapolis; A Woman’s Palate Wine Club exclusive to WBENC with fine wines and vintners who are eager to share their knowledge of exemplary wines; and a vast array of WBENC merchandise such as our signature Pebble Grain Zipper Portfolio and Executive Rhinestone Pen and much more. Stop by and a find a WOW item that’s right for you!

PLAY! WELCOME RECEPTION & SILENT AUCTION At the Welcome Reception and Silent Auction on Tuesday evening, you’ll discover the musical greats of Minnesota (Prince, anyone?), bid on fabulous items and Power Meetings, and play a game that could win you an outstanding prize or two. Bring your badge and come ready to enjoy a truly unique conference experience.

ENJOY! TARGET FIELD Be ready to engage and be entertained! Wednesday night takes us to Target Field, home of the Minnesota Twins, where food, music and surprises (maybe karaoke?!) will create a fun-filled evening that lends itself to informal networking and relaxation after a busy day at the Business Fair. Put on your conference t-shirt and a pair of jeans. If someone else has on the same color shirt, they’re from your area! Bus service from all properties will be begin at 6:15 p.m. with departures every 15 minutes until 8:30 p.m. Departures back to all properties will begin at 8:30 p.m. The final departure will be at 10:30 p.m. Attendees staying at the Commons Hotel will be transported via the hotel shuttle.

EXERCISE! Start your days at conference with an energizing exercise class!

Tuesday and Thursday will feature Zumba (7:00 – 8:00 a.m.) and Yoga will be offered on Wednesday (6:00 – 7:00 a.m.). All classes will be held at the Hilton Minneapolis in the Rochester Room. Be sure to pack your workout gear and join the fun.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU IN MINNEAPOLIS!!!

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

19

OPPORTUNITIES

2013 ERNST & YOUNG ENTREPRENEURIAL WINNING WOMEN PROGRAM: CALL FOR APPLICATIONS AND NOMINATIONS WBENC encourages Women’s Business Enterprises to apply or to nominate an outstanding entrepreneur for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneurial Winning WomenTM Program. Now in its sixth year, Entrepreneurial Winning Women is a competitive award and leadership program that identifies a select group of high-potential women entrepreneurs whose businesses show real potential to scale – and then helps them do it. Winners will:

• Join an elite network of the country’s best entrepreneurs and high-growth company leaders • Participate in a customized leadership program with year-round activities designed to accelerate and sustain business growth • On a complimentary basis, attend the Ernst & Young Strategic Growth Forum® 2013, the country’s most prestigious gathering of high-growth companies, November 13-17 in Palm Springs, Calif (www.ey.com/us/strategicgrowthforum) ELIGIBILITY: Applicants are women CEOs who have founded their privately held U.S. or Canadian companies within the last 10 years and have achieved at least $2 million in revenue in each of the past two years. For more information on eligibility and how to apply or nominate, visit www.ey.com/us/entrepreneurialwinningwomen.

The application period closes on June 28, 2013.

SEE THE IMPACT: Documented results show this program is spurring dramatic growth. Thinking big: how to accelerate the growth of women-owned companies explores the impact of the Entrepreneurial Winning Women

Program. According to this assessment by the Babson College Center for Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership, revenues of program participants’ companies have grown almost 50% each year on average, with a corresponding average annual job growth rate of more than 25%.

HEAR FROM THE ENTREPRENEURS THEMSELVES: Watch this video to learn what other Winning Women have gained from the program and see why it is a valuable growth accelerator. Here’s what one participant has to say:

“ The Ernst & Young Entrepreneurial Winning Woman™ Program has helped me to be bolder – I’m now setting my sights on a 300 percent growth plan. The opportunities that presented themselves once I gained access to this elite network enabled me to begin building a public profile, seek advisors and utilize new tools and insights, all of which have literally changed my life and erased any doubt of what’s really possible as a leader.”

Kari Warberg Block, CEO, Earth-Kind and Entrepreneurial Winning Women Class of 2012.

BE SURE TO VISIT THE WBENC OPPORTUNITY WORLD (WOW) SHOP AND BOOKSTORE IN MINNEAPOLIS! CLASSICS - WRITERS OF WBENC

ION

THIRD EDIT

G AKIN BREROUGH TH -owned minority

ses

busines

S #1 "NF JDB t VOH NFS :P *# PG " $ t t &SOTU BOL t # OHT QBOZ -- *OUFS PMEJ *OD SJPUU S *O .BS J[FS *O U (SPVQ 'VUVSF ) UPST $PN t 1GGJ[FSMJOF EHF SHZ FSBM .P S(SPVQ t *OD t 1 *OD E "J (FO "WJT #V D t &OF $P TJ$P OJUF BOQPXF1FQ 5 t MM *O QBOZ t #VE t 1FQTJ t . BOZ t "5 t %F QBOZ t 6 t "WJT FMM *O QBOZ t DFOU --$ UPS $PN DZ T *OD PNQ $PN t "5 5 M -V t % B $ SPVQ P $PN .BDZ .P t . .

JD $ JD DBUF MFS ( DUSJD DFOUU SPVQ --$ .PUPS $ D $PMB VDFO PDB *OD &MF IF $P ISZT O t 'PSE M -V BD VSF t "M UFM JDFT BT BOE PSE MFS ( B DBUF D t .

SBUJP DFOU FWSPO t $ "MDB O t 5 O t ' ISZT *OD PSQP FMMZ 4FSW JGJD (BT MFD BUJP SF t SBUJP JDFT O t $ O t $I S FOUV PSQPS PSQP 4FSW BT BOE &O t 5 FWSP .PCJM $OTPO t , PU t 1BD U $P t 5 FMMZ t "DD C CJM $ t $I YYPO JD ( UJPO +PI BSHF %FQ BUJP O t , * *OD *OD O .P BDJG O QPSB FOUVS GJDF IOTP U t 1 $PSSQPS t 0G IOTP 4IFMM t 54UPSFT "NFSJDB 1 t &YYP +PI FQP SHFUU $P D t "DD t $I D t *OD SU 1 BSHF DF % MM t 5 t 5B OBM FT *O 8BM .B JDB t #1 PVOH -- PIOTPO 0GGJD T *O *OD YY IFMM #PX 4IF t

NFS . t + M *OD t D t : OFZ SU 4UPSF "NFSJDB --1 t & [PO BSU 4 SOTU - t *# PG " *OD t 4 M .B 7FSJ JPOB #1 --$ BM .

BOL JOHT t & XFT t 8B VOH IOTP 4 t BOZ *O SOBU JDB t t # t +P Z #P J[PO t 8 NFS *OUF )PME *OD PNQ M *O OTU :P #.

JUOF VSF PVQ PST $ .BSSJPUU O t 1 14 t 7FS BOL L PG " OHT t &S Z --$ t * SOBUJPOB X 'VU Z #P FSHZ QBO GJ[FS *ODFTT t 6 *OD t # PMEJ FSBM .PU VQ t *OUF JUOF J[ SF ) t 1 S(SP (FO $PN SMJOF PVQ SJPUU D t 1 7FS OZ t PXF *OD 'VUV UPST E "J .BS ( 14 t B U (S FS *O BOQ TJ$P OJUF t # 1GJ[ EHF &OFSHZ OFSBM .P S(SPVQ t T t 6 t .

1FQ D t SMJOF PVQ *OD )P OZ t QBOZ t 6 "WJT #V OD tt PXF t (F P *O E "J FMM * NQ NQB QBOZ t .BOQ QTJ$ OJUF EHFU (S Z 'VUVSF U PMB $PN t "5 5 t t % PNQ --$ PS $ Z T *OD DB $ FOU BOZ t 1F QBOZ t 6 JT #V t &OFSH OFSBM .P SPVQ PSE .PU BDZ QPX t (F t (F BUFM -VD t . USJD $PNQ PMB $PN 5 5 t "W MM *OD BOZ SZTMFS ( O t ' t %F PNQBOZ *OD t .BOZ t 1 *OD U t " MFDU DB $ t $I SBUJP JDFT OE & 5IF $P FM -VDFO PVQ --$ QBO PS $ Z T 4FSW PSQP BT B t 5I MDBU .PU $PN S (S t .BD PMB $P FMMZ CJM $ t " $ISZTMF O t 'PSE *OD &MFDUSJD DB $ BDJGJD ( PSBUJPO O t , F $P IOTP FQPU t 1 $PSQ DDFOUVSFW PO t BUJP 4FSWJDFT FM -VDFO HFU (BT BOEJPO t 5I t "MDBU t $ISZT Z JDF % FMM t 5BS *OD t " t $IFWS JM $PSQPS

t ,FMM 1BDJGJD .

P PSBUDDFOUVSF$IFWSPO SQPSBU $PSQ t 4I SU 4UPSFT FSJDB *OD YYPO .PC PU t OTPO +PI GJDF %FQ 5BSHFU *OD t " *OD t .PCJM $P t ,F 1 t & .B t #1 "N

8BM SJDB H -FMM t OTPO D t 0G SJDB YPO PSFT +PIOTPO *OD *OD t 4I t &Y SU 4U #1 "NF t +PI :PVO "NF ts --1 IOTPO M .B t SOTU X t *#. BUJPOBM XFT esen VOH 8B SJDB T t & repr OZ --$ UU *OUFSO JUOFZ #PFSJ[PO t PG "NF SOTU :P *#. t +P that ere the n L NQB BSSJP FS *OD t 1 -$ t 4 t 7 t #BO T t & ly chai everywh ort our t . t 61 OZ EJOH PVQ D t 1GJ[ )PM OFT VQ *OD NQB rse supp people to supp UVSF "JSMJ T $P Dell P *O a dive give liers UFE HFU (SP Z 'V PUPS ael S. Dell 6OJ , Mich ing with ices that rse supp OZ t "WJT #VE t &OFSHFOFSBM . & CEO MM *OD of dive of work and serv rman 5 t BOZ t ( t %F ions rtance Chai ucts PNQ --$ ribut impo prod PVQ PS $ cont .PU ds the delivers on the PSE rstan nd and l unde kets We depe rs�

"Del l mar loca do more. custome our e our er to pow and serv s team

Creating

nities for

opportu

en and

a’s wom

Americ

ILLIPS

The third edition of Susan Bari’s book Breaking Through makes its debut at the conference. Containing valuable insights for women entrepreneurs on how to engage with large corporations, this book is an in-depth look into the dos and don’ts of navigating the competitive procurement landscape. Highlighted throughout are case studies of WBEs who are leading business owners in their industries. Visit the store to obtain your copy of this comprehensive guide to help develop and grow your business.

BARI

N PH

SUSA

ORIGINALS - LEGACY BRACELET Make a statement by showing your participation and ongoing support to WBENC. The Legacy Bracelet and charms individually represent the varying programs and opportunities provided by WBENC. This year, two stunning new charms have been added to the National Conference & Business Fair collection. The ‘Mini-Apple’ bead and ‘Love to Shop’ charm embody the spirit of Minneapolis, the location of the 2013 Conference.

thedwgroup.com/wbenclegacy

REFINEMENTS - WINE CLUB exclusive TO WBENC

Join A Woman’s Palate Wine Club exclusive to WBENC the only wine club developed by women for women and the men who support them. Be introduced to fine quality vintners, share their stories and develop your knowledge on exemplary wine. After selecting the club or clubs you want to join (White, Red, or Splurge) then decide how frequently you want to receive wine at your doorstep. Each shipment will include information about the winemaker, the wine and suggestions on food pairing. Visit the website below to join!

awomanspalate.com/wbenc

ESSENTIALS - WBENC MERCHANDISE Find out which WBENC merchandise best fits your style. There is plenty to choose from including our signature Pebble Grain Zipper Portfolio and Executive Rhinestone Pen and much much more. Stop by the WOW Shop and Bookstore during the conference or visit the website to view and purchase additional WBENC essentials.

shopWBENC.com

OPPORTUNITIES

WOMEN FOR WOUNDED WARRIORS: THE WBENC FAMILY STEPS UP FOR SERVICE PEOPLE AND THEIR FAMILIES Families of the courageous men and women who serve in the four branches of the U.S. military services are painfully aware that their loved ones make up only one percent of the 300-million people in America. So when their sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, fathers or mothers return from duty with disabilities or mental illness, these families can feel alone in facing a long journey of recovery.

Veteran family members Terri McNally, President and CEO of Global Capital Ltd., and Lisa Hanlon, CEO and cofounder of Teltech Communications, LLC, set out to change that and provide those families with much-needed support by founding Women for Wounded Warriors.

These WBENC-certified WBEs decided to tap into the vast WBENC network to ask for help. Today Women for Wounded Warriors is committed to providing economic empowerment to the caregivers of our fallen as well as the wounded warriors to enhance and improve their lives.

“ Those who have worn the uniform and their family members who have faced the challenges and made the sacrifices as their loved ones have carried out their missions, need and deserve our help,” Hanlon said.

WBENC Corporations Step in for Families of Fallen SEALS Following the tragic loss of seven Navy SEALs in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan in August 2011, McNally and Hanlon were overwhelmed by the support of WBENC Corporate Members in helping the families travel to the funerals in Arlington and all over the country.

“ All our friends across the WBENC family immediately sprang into action to give these families transportation or hotel rooms. Lynn Boccio (Vice President for Strategic Business and Diversity Relations) at Avis Budget Group arranged for rental cars. Ruby McCleary (Director Supplier Diversity) at United Airlines reached out to Community Affairs to get plane tickets, Marriott and Hilton offered hotel rooms,” McNally said. “All donations of help went to the Navy SEAL Foundation which offers up support by providing families with funding for memorial services, scholarships for children and spouses and assistance with other financial needs.”

The assistance continues today. BP America asked if they could donate some office equipment. McNally thought they would send a few trucks. “They sent 100 trailers. Lisa is warehousing them for veterans and their families. It was amazing.”

W4WW also offers employment assistance to veterans.

To donate or get involved, see http://womenforwoundedwarriors.org

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

OPPORTUNITIES

Tuck-WBENC EXECUTIVE PROGRAM Brought to you by IBM

OCTOBER 6-11, 2013 PALISADES, NY The Tuck-WBENC Executive Program is “the most powerful of the many ways that WBENC has helped my business grow” as stated by Judy Bradt, CEO, Summit Insights and “it was the most amazing and rewarding educational and networking experience I have had” said Twyla Garrett, President & CEO, Investment Management Enterprise Inc, both graduates from the class of 2012.

The 2013 Tuck-WBENC Executive Program, brought to you by IBM, is a five-day program made of up 50 WBEs that focuses on increasing their companies competitive advantage in the economy. The professors from the Tuck School of Dartmouth create and foster collaborative learning with your fellow WBEs to improve upon and enhance the inner workings of your business.

CANDIDATE ELIGIBILITY: • Currently certified and in good standing as a Women Business Enterprise (WBE) by WBENC • Have at least three to five years of experience running a business • Maintain a minimum annual sales volume of $300,000 SIGN UP TODAY! Seats are limited, join us for the 2013 Tuck-WBENC Executive Program on October 6-11, 2013 in New York!

Additionally, WBEs interested in attending the Tuck-WBENC program may also apply for the Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarship which can be used to attend this program. To learn more about this scholarship and eligibility please visit our website at www.wbenc.org and select Opportunities from the menu at the top right.

TUCK-WBENC APPLICATION DEADLINE: AUGUST 5, 2013 For more information or to learn how to apply for these programs, visit: “Opportunities”at www.wbenc.org

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

23

RECOGNITION

HOST COMMITTEE PROFILE: MAUREEN BEAL CEO AND CHAIRMAN, NATIONAL VAN LINES National Van Lines is an extraordinary example of women’s business empowerment.

Founded three generations ago by the family of CEO and Chairman Maureen Beal, it became employee-owned in 2011. National still maintains its woman-owned status, as the majority of the employee shareholders are female. Beal’s choice to sell the 82-year-old company was driven by her commitment to keep it as a WBENC-certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE), and to maintain “the culture of caring at the company – for our customers, agents, drivers and staff” that had been loyally nurtured by her and National Van Lines’ employees over the years.

This focus on excellence and accountability is important because families – including many families of veterans – are the core customers of National Van Lines. Its tagline, “Moving Your Memories,” reflects the company’s promise to do so with quality and sensitivity.

As a result, National Van Lines has maintained the highest average customer satisfaction scores with U.S. Government agency relocations for over a decade.

National Van Lines also serves many families who are paying for the moving expense themselves. Accordingly, the company approaches each move with the goals of keeping costs down and guiding the family through the transition. “We are committed doing what is right for our customers; and we know that when you do what is right, your business will thrive,” Beal says.

To increase efficiencies and cost control, the company took early advantage of web-based technology in dispatching, tracking drivers and communicating with its representatives. Given National Van Lines’ reach across the U.S. and globally to 92 countries, this was a prescient decision in enabling the company’s global growth.

Today, with over 400 agents nationwide – military and domestic – and ranked as the 23rd largest certified woman-owned business in the U.S., National Van Lines has become a more than $100-million-dollar a year enterprise.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT “ We’re streamlined, faster to respond and able to maintain a higher level of accountability,” Beal says. “We’re large enough to get the job done, yet small enough to care about doing it well.”

Beal also built a strong financial foundation starting early in her tenure, first as Corporate Treasurer and then in her role as CEO starting in 1993. This combination of fiscal discipline, strategic decision making and adherence to company principles has resulted in consistent growth since that time.

To ensure that the families have a positive experience, National Van Lines prepares its families on what to expect and what they can do to make the process easier. Through educational materials for its customers, and sales training for its own professionals, it paves the way for a smoother experience.

MAUREEN BEAL CEO and Chairman National Van Lines

A WBE Star, Beal also believes in giving back to her community. She is a member of the Host Committee for the WBENC 2013 National Conference & Business Fair. “Being a women-owned business has been a powerful part of our identity and opened many doors over the years,” she says. “WBENC and the WBDC-Chicago have both been great partners in building our knowledge and relationships. Not only have we gained valuable mentors, but life-long friends.” www.nationalvanlines.com

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

25

RECOGNITION

HOST COMMITTEE PROFILE: SUE BHATIA CEO, ROSE INTERNATIONAL Rose International has been providing innovative solutions and quality temporary labor across a variety of industries for the past 20 years. Led by CEO Himanshu “Sue” Bhatia, this WBENC-certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) helps its clients achieve their business objectives while ensuring the top customer service and employee relations.

“ We at Rose International look to consistently innovate,” Bhatia said.

“Not only do we offer the proven ability to find, attract and retain top talent, but we also deliver it in ways that are better for our customers and their businesses.”

Rose International is a leader in providing innovative end-to-end technology services to over 150 commercial organizations and government agencies from branch offices, Centralized Recruiting Centers and development centers in 21 U.S. cities and India.

While clearly global in reach, with more than 6,000 associates and steady revenue growth, the St. Louis-based company is also a proud member of the Host Committee for the WBENC 2013 National Conference & Business Fair.

“ Rose International has been WBENC certified for 10 years.

Our clients recognize this certification and the value it provides,” Bhatia says. “It has been an asset to our business, and we encourage our eligible subcontracting partners to obtain WBENC certification as well.”

SUE BHATIA CEO Rose International

Bhatia founded the company in 1993, when she perceived the opportunity to capitalize on both the emergence of computer tools and the gaping need at companies to hire experts to manage projects using them.

Under her leadership, Rose International emerged as a force in the IT and Business Services arena. Today the company’s two main divisions, Technology Solutions and Workforce Solutions, allow it to find the best talent available to meet the needs of their clients.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Now 20 years along, Rose International is still broadening its customer base, in 2012 by roughly 40 percent, including new customers and business expansion with current customers. This year the company will place thousands of consultants on assignments across the country.

Customers span energy, entertainment, financial, government agencies, healthcare, retail and consumer, and technology and telecommunications.

Bhatia believes that its breadth in reach and industry is a strength for both Rose International and its customers.

“ Our customers benefit from this diverse client base. We take the industry best practices from each industry, and apply those across all lines of our business,” she said.

Workforce Solutions develops strategies to deliver the best contingent talent in an effort to help clients reduce existing costs, avoid future costs and achieve their strategic goals.

This encompasses staffing, strategies and innovations such as the Named Resource Program, enabling customers to bring back retirees and past consultants.

As an authorized Project Management Institute PMI® Global Registered Education Provider (R.E.P.) organization and a founding member of the PMI® Chapter in Jefferson City, Missouri, Rose International offers training for project managers that will both deepen their project management knowledge base and prepare them for PMP® certification.

To meet growing demand, Rose International has invested in its own infrastructure and systems so that it is positioned to serve large scale programs $100 million dollars and above. It also plans to expand its internal team across several departments to include Accounting, Human Resources, Marketing and Sales.

“ We are positioning ourselves for the future by creating a strong foundation for the next phase of our growth,” Bhatia said. http://www.roseint.com

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

27

RECOGNITION

HOST COMMITTEE PROFILE: LORETTA ROSENMAYER FOUNDER AND CEO, INTREN, INC. 2013 MARKS INTREN’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY 25 years ago, Loretta Rosenmayer started Trench-It, a small trenching company with four employees and $15,000 borrowed from a close female friend who believed in her dream.

Today, INTREN is a leader in the development and execution of premier design, construction and management solutions for the electric, gas and renewable energy construction services. “Trenching” is only six percent of the business and accordingly the name was changed in 2009 to INTREN, incorporating its core value of “integrity” into the original. As CEO of INTREN, Rosenmayer leads more than 900 men and women she calls “strong and proud”; this year projects revenues over $200 million.

Rosenmayer is an avid supporter of women in business and a committed partner to support companies seeking to become WBENC-certified. One of the original Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) certified through The Women’s Business Development Center of Chicago (WBDC-Chicago) and a member of the Host Committee for the 2013 National Conference & Business Fair, she serves as a mentor and encourages women to become certified as a step to empowerment.

LORETTA ROSENMAYER Founder and CEO INTREN, Inc.

“ Being part of the WBENC community of WBEs over the years has introduced me to many successful and generous women.

I believe strongly in the benefits of our supporting each other through mentoring and connections, and I am committed to this community,” she says.

She credits the utility industry for perceiving and acting on the potential for women’s businesses to perform. “In this industry, you are judged on your delivery, not your gender,” she adds.

INTREN now stands as a “professionally evolved, multi-faceted, customer-focused entity,” she says. Supporting this level of service is INTREN’s culture of stewardship which Rosenmayer says “fosters an environment that attracts, develops and retains people who are committed to bringing exceptional value to our customers and our company.”

PRESIDENT’S REPORT Throughout the 25 years of her business, Loretta has maintained the belief that giving back to the community is vital to her as well as a core tenet of the company.

Over the last 5 years, she has given back to hundreds of organizations through service, support and monetary donations totaling over $1 million. This stewardship touches organizations in McHenry County, Illinois, where she lives, and across the Chicago region.

“ We at INTREN practice and live stewardship in all our relationships,” she said. “We embrace it with our customers, employees and competitors, as well as with other Women’s Business Enterprises and Minority Business Enterprises. It is our belief that we are mandated to give back with open hearts to these communities and causes.”

Rosenmayer’s leadership and ability to nurture success in others is no more evident than in her own family. “My top priority in life has always been my children and family,” she says, having raised her daughter and four sons. Yet Loretta also cared for over 20 teenage girls in crisis as a foster mother and more than 10 exchange students from various South American countries – a “life-altering experience” that ignited Rosenmayer’s passion to turn her energies to helping the underserved in her own community.

With Rosenmayer as INTREN CEO and her son, Lance Rosenmayer, as President, together they continue to grow the business based on the original core values that she set in place over 25 years ago: Safety, Integrity, Customer Focus and Employee Empowerment. INTREN strives to outperform every day, earning the trust of its customers through stewardship of their priorities, the communities’ interests, and the company’s ever-growing success.

For more information on INTREN visit: http://www.intren.com

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

29

RECOGNITION

HOST COMMITTEE PROFILE: CAREN SCHWEITZER PRESIDENT, CREATIVE RESOURCES Creative Resources is a green-certified branded merchandise company serving multinational corporations, educational institutions and government agencies. Founded in 1995 by President Caren Schweitzer, Creative Resources creates high-impact branded merchandise designed to elevate its clients’ brands and engage their target audiences.

“We know that our client’s brand is their most valuable asset, and we are committed to protecting and fostering it,” she says. Schweitzer is a WBENC-certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) and a member of the Host Committee for the WBENC 2013 National Conference & Business Fair.

Creative Resources takes a comprehensive and strategic approach to presenting the clients’ brand to customers, prospects and the communities it serves. At the same time, it maintains the highest level of ethical, environmental and safety standards in all the products it delivers.

Schweitzer built the company around a turnkey process that delivers operational and marketing value to her clients, while delivering on its customer service pledge of “100% satisfaction on every product, every order, every day.” The process reduces redundant layers in the supply chain, resulting in cost savings and opening up opportunities for innovation.

CAREN SCHWEITZER President Creative Resources

For example, Schweitzer will source products directly from China, eliminating two layers of process to save on costs, but it also allows Creative Resources to monitor product quality and workplace compliance. For clients such as Target Corporation, every bag shipped to hundreds of stories across North America must not only have the precise branded shade of red, but must also ensure that it has been produced at the highest standards of quality, safety and ethics.

For UPS, Creative Resources has built its online green merchandise store. Every product on this site is environmentally responsible, from water bottles to apparel, from desk to car items – and can be purchased by UPS employees, worn to a trade show or offered to customers. “Each item is in our warehouse so we can pick, pack and ship in the same day,” she adds.

As a Certified Green Company, by the Institute for Green Business Certification (IGBC) and one of the few in its field in the country, Creative Resources seeks to develop environmentally sustainable products and source green product alternatives and sustainable packaging options for all clients. It also analyzes how to reduce their carbon footprint at the office and in its processes.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT “ Whether you are a hybrid-driving eco-enthusiast or a recycling novice, we’ll help you find the shade of green that best suits you: reusable, recyclable or biodegradable products or items made from recycled or Earth-friendly materials,” she says.

Not only does Creative Resources apply this level of customization in its product development and processes, but it also does so with speed.

When the Minnesota Twins called to ask for 4,000 buttons by the end of the day for a ball game, Creative Resources delivered using a trusted button resource in Minneapolis and getting them delivered by hand to the stadium at no delivery cost “because I gave the courier my tickets to the game,” Schweitzer says.

This also demonstrates Creative Resources’ commitment to using U.S. sources that deliver quality and service. The company cultivates these sources, holding an annual vendor Expo bringing together their clients, vendors and employees to share new products before they have made their catalogue debuts or clever new ways of using those products to build business.

“ We’re not order takers; we are true collaborative partners,” Schweitzer says. This might mean embedding strategies to attain ROI on product, such as obtaining customer preference information through product give-aways like music downloads, movie tickets or magazine subscriptions.

To support its quality control globally, Creative Resources works closely with Bureau Veritas, founded in 1828 to help its clients ensure quality, safety, environmental protection and social responsibility. Creative Resources also has QCA (Quality Certification Alliance) relationships granted to companies who complete multiple independent third-party audit and comply with stringent national laws, international standards and industry-accepted best practices.

This sense of responsibility to its clients is shared by each employee of the company. “We have created a team and a culture of accountability. Even though we are global, a real person answers our phone, and that person will find the answer or move the order forward,” Schweitzer says.

For Creative Resources, WBENC is a crucial partner in connecting with corporations and other WBEs. “We champion diversity inside and outside of our own company, making it a point to seek out fellow women-owned businesses,” Schweitzer says. “It all adds up to a powerful path to business development.”

For more information about Creative Resources visit: www.acreativeresource.com

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

31

WOMEN ON WELLNESS

FIT TO TRAVEL Did you know that women now constitute almost 50 percent of all business travel in the U.S. and spend $175 billion on 14 million trips annually? We need to be smart and safe when we travel.

Our hope is that this article is timely as you prepare for the 2013 WBENC National Conference which will take place June 25th – 27th in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The nature of many of our professions includes travel. Some practical behavioral tips that will make your next travel safer, easier and healthier than you have experienced in the past are presented below. Choose at least one new behavior that can easily fit into your next trip and incorporate additional travel habits over time.

In addition to adopting new ideas, allow yourself time to acclimate to these changes before embarking on your next destination.

SAFETY TIPS

•T ravel with a small, high-powered flashlight in your briefcase for times when you’re out and about and to place on your bedside table at night for emergencies.

•U se laminated business cards as luggage tags. Anyone checking the address will not find your home address or telephone number.

•L eave your good jewelry at home!

•C hoose national hotel chains with interior room entrances.

Reception or concierge desks near the entrance deter potential problems.

•R equest a room with a peephole, and preferably one with no connecting door to another room.

•N ever give out your room number.

•R emember to use good body mechanics when lifting your luggage; always bend your knees instead of using straight legs which strain your back. Avoid carrying heavy items on your back that are not ergonomically positioned as this will cause back, shoulder and neck pain.

•U se valet service whenever available, especially at night.

• I f you are traveling alone, do not hesitate to ask a hotel employee to escort you to your car if you do not feel comfortable.

•C onsider power naps! Studies show that power napping is an effective antidote to free-floating anxiety and increases work productivity when traveling. One NASA study “…shows that a nap of just 26 minutes can boost [work] performance by as much as 34 percent.” 20-40 minutes is considered the optimal nap length.

•P lace the “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door to discourage anyone from entering your room while you are away.

•D o not use room service breakfast door hangers; they ask for the number of guests which you do not want to divulge as being alone.

•A lways remember to lock and bolt doors and windows in your hotel room.

•D o not let hotel employees enter your room unless you have requested them.

•A lways verify with the front desk if someone claiming to be a hotel employee knocks on the door.

PREPARATION

• I f you are expecting take-out food or a package from outside the hotel, have it delivered to the front desk or concierge.

Preparing ahead of time ensuring that you have everything you need will make your entire traveling experience more productive, enjoyable and less stressful.

•M ake sure people at home have your itinerary: flight information, hotel information and phone numbers.

•F ill out the emergency contact information on your hotel rewards profile as well as on your passport.

Useful travel tips are presented in categories below.

GENERAL TIPS Make a conscious decision that traveling is not going to totally interrupt your life. Plan to take care of yourself and make health a priority during travel. Avoid succumbing to the temptations that often accompany travel. Review the items on the list below and check the ones that resonate with you. Identify those that you feel are doable either now or later. For instance, when waiting at the airport, be very selective about your foods and make healthy choices.

• Get the latest travel mobile apps.

•B ook a daytime arrival, especially if you are on a west-to-east coast flight. Plan a daily outside activity while it is daylight which will aid in jet lag recovery much faster.

•W alk the length of the plane every hour or two to keep your back happy, your muscles supple and your blood circulating. Choose an aisle seat which provides greater freedom to remain mobile.

•N ever volunteer the fact that you are traveling alone.

•B e aware of your surroundings – people, cars, doorways, stairwells, parking garages – and have a plan in case you get into a dangerous situation.

•A void rooms near emergency exits as well as those near any renovation work.

• I f no valet service is available, park only in well-lit areas, as close to the hotel entrance as possible.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT REPORT PRESIDENT’S

•K eep your cell phone and charging cord with you at all times.

EATING OUT

•M ake sure you have 911 and emergency contact numbers programmed in speed dial.

•C heck the menu ahead of time. This way you can identify healthy choices and determine if the restaurant fits your preferences.

•T ry not to overeat; pace yourself to slow down and taste your food. If you need bread, request that it be served with your meal.

Avoid the high fat, salty and high sugar foods. Stay away from the white stuff: sugar, flour, rice and pasta.

PACKING:

•L imit your luggage to a carryon.

•R oll your clothing instead of folding it.

ACTIVITY OR EXERCISE TIME

•P ack dark clothing that is versatile.

Remember to bring your workout attire and comfortable sneakers so you can plan to move while you are away. Some simple ideas to reduce soreness and fatigue while you travel: stretch at least once, preferably twice a day especially if you are sitting throughout the day; makes sure you stretch your hips, legs and back. You can do yoga moves while sitting in your seat as well as ankle bends, toe stretches, chest expanders, side stretches, arm lifts, neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, finger moves, abdominal lifts and total relaxation moves.

•H eavy things, like shoes, should be packed on the bottom of the bag.

•B ring along comfortable walking shoes and clothes for the gym.

FOR THE PLANE:

• J oin a rewards program and stick with it.

•U se this time to catch up on email or finish reading a book.

•U se technology to plan ahead; this includes checking in and choosing your seat.

•D rink lots of water the week before or at least a few days before, a few hours before your flight, while flying and throughout your business trip to prevent dehydration. Drink two 8-ounce glasses before boarding the plane and another glass for each hour in flight. Dehydration causes fatigue which you can avoid.

•H ave your own healthy snacks available for the flight.

HYDRATION Don’t wait to be thirsty before you drink water. Drink as much water as you can and carry a water bottle that will remind you to drink.

Remember the rule of thumb: drink half your body weight in ounces of water a day. Drinking water helps to prevent bloating due to sitting still for a long time, eating food that we do not normally eat and experiencing jet lag. Avoid alcohol or caffeine as they are both diuretics; you need to make sure you drink more water as a result.

FOOD Eating healthy foods while traveling can be a challenge for many of us. Plan ahead as to what healthy snacks can easily be put into your carryon bag: fruits, nuts, protein bars and vegetables. Be aware of products that contain a high quantity of sugar and fat which are not healthy choices. Try to eat something every two to three hours while traveling in order to avoid the extreme hunger that arises when we are unable to eat due to long durations of travel.

Just in case your hotel does not have a fitness center or gym or there is not one close by to use pack some of the items below which provide workout alternatives:

•P edometer • I nterval Trainer for walk/jog routine •R esist-A-Tube •S tretch band • J ump rope •E xercise video •L ifting gloves, and other items you normally take to the gym •E arphones to attach to the machines or ipod

QUIET TIME Planning quiet time is important. This could easily consist of taking breaths, your version of smelling the roses and blowing out the candles a few times a day or sit in silence and meditate to quiet the mind and body to rejuvenate and center yourself.

We hope these travel tips come in handy and make your next trip a safe and healthy one. Happy Trails!! See you in Minneapolis!

For more information about Corporate Fitness Works please visit their website: http://www.corporatefitnessworks.com

WWW.WBENC.ORG » JUNE EDITION 2013 »

33

Bringing the Most Interesting Women in Wine to You

A Woman’s Palate, started in 2012 by two women, wants to introduce you to our women vintners and their stories; share their wines with you; and educate women about fine wine.

For more information, visit us online. find us on facebook www.facebook.com/AWomansPalate follow us on twitter @AWomansPalate follow us on pinterest pinterest.com/awomanspalate

PERFECT PAIRINGS Salmon is one of the most versatile pairings for wine, as it tastes great with many varietals. Enjoy it smoked with bubbles; partner it with roasted potatoes and a delicious Pinot Noir; welcome spring with a dill sauce, asparagus, and a bright Chardonnay.

RECOMMENDED SIPS SPARKLING, Iron Horse Wedding Cuvee: This Blanc de Noirs, made from predominantly Pinot Noir, has a beautiful rose color.

Rich and creamy, like pure strawberries and cream, it is dangerously easy to drink.

CHARDONNAY, St. Supéry Chardonnay: The Oak Free Chardonnay tastes of green apple and cantaloupe with a seductive aroma of fresh baked bread. A refreshing, clean finish highlights mineral and fruit qualities.

PINOT NOIR, Inman Family Wines: A striking wine displaying power without weight. Refreshingly fruity with flavors of red cherry and berry, but with an equally appealing savory side of herbs and brown spice.

don’t

A WOMAN’S

PA L A T E

GIVE UP THE

WINE list

Meet women vintners, experience their lifestyle, and connect with other accomplished women through the AWP Boot Camp.

This educational seminar considers the true value of fine wine and shares helpful strategies for successfully and confidently ordering fine wines in a business setting.

AWP

M

An online magazine featuring women vintners, food professionals, and business executives, all offering practical and useful advice on wine and food for business and pleasure.

Visit awomanspalate.com or awpmag.com for more information