Women’s Independent Press

www.scorepittsburgh.com

Back when I started my business, social media was just starting to gain in popularity. “What’s a tweet?” I remember thinking. How quickly have things changed in just a few years?
There are now over 2 billion social media users worldwide!
More than half (52 percent) of those use two or more social media sites.
I’ve become a Twitter goddess.
Not really, but I do realize the importance of social media in business and I’ve learned a few things over the years. Here are some of my best tips:
Social Media1. Post everywhere! I post our content on Pinterest, Facebook, LinkedIn and Google +, but Twitter is where I spend most of my time. I not only post my own content, but also tweet content written by others that I think is interesting.
2. Get organized. You need tools to manage your social media. I’m a big fan of HootSuite and Tweetdeck.
3. Use analytics. Many social media platforms have introduced analytics for their users. The ones at Twitter and Pinterest are quite robust. You need to determine what you’re using social media for in order to determine your ROI.
4. Be present. Make sure you check your social media interactions constantly and answer quickly. Most likely you will have to delegate this task to someone on staff or hire a freelancer to help.
5. Be responsive. Most negative comments are complaints about products or services. Make sure you post an apology and then take the interaction offline so you can make amends either by refund or replacement.
6. Be visual. Facebook posts containing photos accounted for 87 percent of all network interactions in 2014. There are plenty of easy-to-use apps available that can help make your posts more visual.
7. Keep them coming back. Make sure you’re posting coupons and discounts to encourage customers to check their feeds often for your posts.
8. Try paid posts. Advertisers worldwide are expected to spend $23.68 billion on paid media to reach consumers on social networks this year, according to eMarketer. Test out a few targeted posts to reach new customers and see what type of posts get responses.
About the Author
Rieva Lesonsky, HeadshotRieva Lesonsky is CEO of GrowBiz Media, a media and custom content company focusing on small business and entrepreneurship. Email Rieva at rieva@smallbizdaily.com, follow her onGoogle+ and Twitter.com/Rieva and visit her website, SmallBizDaily.com, to get the scoop on business trends and sign up for Rieva’s free TrendCast reports.

By Rieva Lesonsky
www.pittsburgh.score.org

When I started my business seven years ago, I never imagined I would immediately have to fight to keep my business going because of an unanticipated lawsuit. Luckily, I had clients loyal to my business that stood by me and helped my business survive. Right away I learned how to protect my business like a mama bear protecting her cub.

Luckily, I had done my homework at startup and had some basic protection practices in place. Here’s a small checklist you should follow to protect your business:

1. Separate your business finances from your personal finances. Structuring your business as a corporation or an LLC makes your business a separate entity and protects your personal assets in case you’re ever taken to court. Yes, there are more rules, fees and paperwork involved in incorporating, but it’s worth the money and effort.

2. Get business insurance. At the very least you need general liability insurance to cover your company against accidents related to your product or service, and property and casualty insurance to cover your business against losses from events like fire and burglary. Even if you run your business from home, don’t count on your homeowners’ insurance covering your business—in most cases, it won’t. If you have employees, your state may require worker’s compensation insurance. Other smart policies include business interruption insurance to pay for your business’s expenses and income if your company is unable to operate due to a disaster, and key man life insurance so the business can keep going if something happens to you.

3. Surround yourself with experts. You may be an expert in your business, but I never would have survived the last seven years without a team of people I could rely on to guide me and protect my business. Make sure you have an outstanding accountant and a lawyer you trust. Other experts I have relied on include peers with expertise in areas that were new to me, such as digital marketing and sales negotiation.

Luckily, I knew about the mentors available to me at SCORE and reached out for help whenever I had a question. Your needs may be different and your business may require more protection depending on your industry. The key is to be as prepared as possible so when your business is at risk, you have the right weapons and allies in your corner to protect it.

About the Author
Rieva Lesonsky, HeadshotRieva Lesonsky is CEO of GrowBiz Media, a media and custom content company focusing on small business and entrepreneurship. Email Rieva at rieva@smallbizdaily.com , follow her onGoogle+ and Twitter.com/Rieva and visit her website, SmallBizDaily.com, to get the scoop on business trends and sign up for Rieva’s free TrendCast reports.

By Mary Grace Musuneggi
President & CEO, The Musuneggi Financial Group
Executive Director, Single Steps Strategies
www.mfgplanners.com

As the Russian ballerina, Grusinskaya, in the movie Grand Hotel (1932), the melodramatic actress Greta Garbo said, “I want to be alone.” These words also became associated with her in her private life.

But in a rare interview she clarified her intent: “I never said, ‘I want to be alone.’ I only said, ‘I want to be left alone!’ There is all the difference.”

Once a year I go on a private retreat. I leave the city, leave Tom and the dog, and leave the office. I escape. I have been doing this every year for a very long time.

I want to be left alone, I want to be alone…but what I don’t want to be is lonely.

Sometimes women don’t know how to differentiate the left alone from the alone and the lonely. Too often they think these are all the same.

But being left alone means that no one is making you crazy at the current time—not your kids, your dog, your spouse, your relatives, your boss…not the world at large. “Left alone” can happen at any moment in time and on any day, even if it is just for an hour. It can be an escape to the bathroom for a long shower; an appointment at the local salon to get your hair done; or a visit to the neighborhood spa for a massage. To make this an exceptional momentary escape, don’t tell anyone where you are going. Or leave the cellphone in the car. Before you go home, stop for coffee at a quiet bistro or sit on a bench in a nearby park watching the birds or reading a book. The very joy is having some time where you are truly “left alone.”

Being alone is another dimension. It is beyond just having a few moments or hours where no one bothers you. Being alone is a deliberate decision to spend time with yourself…to spend time with your thoughts. It is going on retreat. There are no cellphones allowed. It is a time to restore your sense of self and your sense of well-being. It is a necessity, and it requires a few days, not just a few hours. It requires planning: Sitters for the kids and the pets. Days off from work. Money. But the reward is worth all of the time, money, and planning efforts. The reward is a kinder, gentler, happier, healthier you. And that is a reward that all the members of the family or employees of your company can also enjoy.

Now the irony of this is that too many women think being left alone and being alone equate to being lonely. Interestingly, it is those women who are so very “not lonely” who most need the time to be left alone and need the time to be alone.

Being lonely is depressing. Being left alone is refreshing.

Being lonely requires therapy. Being left alone can be life changing…being alone is therapy.

Being lonely sends some women into a tailspin where they reach out for the first (often unsuitable) relationship that shows itself. Being alone sends you into a relationship with yourself that reminds you all you have is all you need. And if some other person enters your life, they could be a nice addition.

Being lonely is typically not a choice. Being left alone can be a quick decision…being alone is a conscious choice.

To maintain your focus, carve out some time in every day where you are left alone. To maintain your sanity, plan an extended time to be alone. To maintain a happy life, make an effort to not be lonely. Join an organization; take a class; volunteer in your community; invite a co-worker out for dinner. Enjoy the company of others…then enjoy some time alone.

By Sandy Burkett
www.vitalsignspittsburgh.com

When thinking about a woman’s body…

1. What comes to visit, but never leaves?
2. Can stay hidden, but also be in plain sight?
3. Is more prevalent than Breast Cancer?
4. Does not typically get diagnosed until after 40 y/o?
5. Can visit by itself or bring its friends?

If you guessed Sjogren’s Syndrome (pronounced SHO-GRINS), you would be in the minority. That is because even though Sjogren’s Syndrome is the second most common autoimmune disease and 9 out of 10 patients are women, hardly anyone has heard of it.

As with most autoimmune diseases, there are many symptoms that come and go on a daily basis. One can present with dry mouth, dry eyes & joint pain on one day and have a totally different combination of symptoms the next. Because of these “now you see them, now you don’t “symptoms, it can be very difficult to diagnose the correct condition. Also, there is a strong tendency for people to dismiss their symptoms as benign (i.e. “Oh, it’s this air conditioning, it always dries me out “). Also, because symptoms can be vague and not present at once when seeing a physician(s), the doctor may not put the entire picture of symptoms together as one diagnosis.

Sjogren’s Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease in which a person’s white cells, attack the moisture-producing glands in the body. This damage causes a large decrease or absence of saliva and tears. Although, the hallmark symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome are dry eyes and dry mouth, Sjogren’s may also cause system involvement and has recently been approved for disability, for those very involved Sjogren’s Syndrome patients.

Sjogren’s Syndrome Symptoms

• Dry mouth; mouth sores; dental decay; difficulty with chewing; speech, taste & dentures
• Dry nose, recurrent sinusitis; nose bleeds
• Dry eyes, corneal ulcerations & infections
• Dry skin, vasculitis, Raynaud’s phenomenon
• Neurological problems, concentration, memory loss (brain fog)
• Abnormal liver function tests; chronic active autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cirrhosis
• Peripheral Neuropathy (numbness & tingling in the extremities)
• Difficulty swallowing, heartburn, reflux, esophagitis
• Recurrent bronchitis, pneumonia, interstitial lung disease
• Arthritis, muscle pain
• Stomach upset, gastroparesis, autoimmune pancreatitis
• Vaginal dryness, painful intercourse

The symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome may mimic those of menopause, drug side effects, or medical conditions, such as: Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Multiple Sclerosis.

If you recognize any of the symptoms listed above a possible answer to your personal medical riddle, please contact a Rheumatologist to have appropriate testing done. While there is no cure, there are medications that can treat the symptoms.

For more information about Sjogren’s Syndrome, please contact the Sjogren’s Syndrome Foundation: http://www.sjogrens.org or if you would like to speak with a local contact, please contact: Sandy Burkett (412)726-3159

Carole Brecht & Jan Steinle

The Sandwich Generation is uniting globally because the needs are so great. 60,000,000+ Caregivers in this nation alone. That number does not include professional Caregivers. The numbers are staggering how many people are getting Alzheimer’s Disease and other variations of dementia as they age. Being around someone who has either a slow or rapid decline with memory impairment is a painful thing to witness. The long goodbye is a perfect name for such a disease. Our memories are essential - they make us who we are today. There are plenty of Caregivers and parents who are not only caring for the seniors in their lives, they are still raising their children or may have a special needs child who needs daily care too. The boomer generation has a lot of responsibility!
If you have a story about your life as a Caregiver that you’d like to share with this Global Community, please submit it to us via facebook email. We will post it so everyone can read and learn from you. If you have tips, helpful ideas when Caregiving, solutions for difficult circumstances and even a thought for the day, we encourage you to send them to us. We’d like to see you take an active role on this page and to feel welcome to do so. The learning curve is ongoing when dealing with healthcare issues. We can all benefit from your insights.

Best Wishes,
Carole Brecht

http://www.thesandwichwoman.com
https://www.facebook.com/thesandwichwoman
Instagram: @San_Gen_Woman
Twitter: Carole Brecht @SanGenWoman

VisionPittsburgh Luncheon

Featured Speaker:
William Demchak, President of PNC Financial Services Group

Attend the VisionPittsburgh luncheon and join the discussion
about the future of our region featuring the perspectives of
prominent local business leaders.

Date: August 6, 2015
Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Place: Duquesne Club, 325 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh PA 15222
Host: Pittsburgh Business Times
Cost: $65
RSVP: Suggested by August 4th

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=IsiLzbdaceZhGz&b=nJBamJSN4XUkI3y_MjZzzw

For more info, call 412-208-3817.

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Business Exchange Networking Lunch

* Give a 1-2 minute commercial for your business.
* Bring business cards, brochures, and samples.
* Make new business contacts.

Dates and Locations:

Aug. 12- Mount Lebanon, The Devonshire of Mount Lebanon,
1050 McNeilly Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15226
RSVP: email Carol Briney at Carol@CarolABriney.com

Aug. 26- Fox Chapel, Comfort Inn (Old Holiday Inn) in RIDC Park,
Ohara Twp
RSVP: email Carol Briney at
Carol@CarolABriney.com

Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Cost: $18 (Bring cash; No-shows will be billed for the lunch)
RSVP: By Monday prior to the event

For more info, go to: http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=IsiLzbdaceZhGz&b=2Jkun9atoGpeeNJd8ViKjg.

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Network After Work at Skybar

Network After Work is America’s premier face-to-face business
networking company with monthly mixer events in over 40 cities
catering to nearly one million members. Attendees make valuable
connections with other members of their business community while
enjoying different exciting venues including clubs, restaurants,
hotels and special event locations. Events attract a diverse mix
of up to several hundred professionals from all industries and
career levels. It all takes place on a weekday right after work
in a fun and relaxed atmosphere conducive to making connections.

Name-tags color coded by industries help sort through the many
opportunities while a free drink and light bites before 7 p.m.
helps get the ball rolling right from the start.

Date: August 12, 2015
Time: 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Place: Skybar, 1605 E Carson St Pittsburgh PA 15203
Host: Network After Work
Cost: $15 in advance /$20 with RSVP at door/$25 without RSVP
RSVP: Suggested by August 10

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=IsiLzbdaceZhGz&b=xwaIMj_ZWKGhnFU50qJezQ

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B2B Networking Lunch

Date: August 13, 2015
Time: 12:00 PM
Place: Bigelow Grill
Host: Pittsburgh Business Professionals Forum
Price: Everyone pays for their own lunch
RSVP: By August 11th

To RSVP, send email to: peter@gisassoc.com.

Brentwood Baldwin Whitehall Chamber of Commerce
Women’s Networking Luncheon

August 14, 2015
Noon
South Hills Country Club

Guest Speaker-Zoe Kennedy

Artist

Art is what originally brought Zoe to Pittsburgh over 30 years ago to study Fashion Illustration at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh. Her more commercial work, geared towards sports fans, is currently on display at Zoe’s Beer in Brentwood. Zoe loves the opportunity to escape the beer business and design pieces specifically with a client in mind. Zoe will show the steps in the process she uses to create her signature watercolor and charcoal portraits of people and animals.

Lunch for Chamber Members - $20 - Bring a friend!
Lunch for Non-Members - $25
Display Table $10

Please make a reservation by contacting our secretary:
Mary Dilla - secretary@bbwchamber.com

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Ten Lies Women Believe About Money

Don’t miss this provocative and timely discussion about women and
money. Pittsburgh Professional Women is pleased to gather together
a panel of local women leaders with outstanding combined experience
and knowledge of financial matters.

This panel is designed to educate and inform you to make
smart financial choices. Please bring your clients, colleagues,
daughters, sisters, nieces, and any woman you care about.

This event includes dinner and a panel discussion with time to
ask one on one questions at the end.

Date: August 17, 2015
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Place: DoubleTree Pittsburgh Green Tree 500 Mansfield Ave,
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Host: Pittsburgh Professional Women
Cost: Members-$39; Non Members-$49
RSVP: Suggested by August 13

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=IsiLzbdaceZhGz&b=OdPBy8KQA0eGo9iXRXLltQ

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Sendoff to Summer at Fox Chapel Yacht Club

Join us at the the Fox Chapel Yacht Club at the Baja Bar & Grill
for our 4th annual ‘Send Off to Summer’ Business Networking Party.
This joint mixer is an executive, yet business casual/Hawaiian
style reception with four amazing Pittsburgh organizations!

Date:August 19, 2015
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Place: Fox Chapel Yacht Club, 1366 Old Freeport Rd,
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Host: Pittsburgh Social Exchange
Sponsoring Organization: Pittsburgh Social Exchange
Cost: PSE & Rotary Members-$15 ($25 after Aug. 18),
Non-members-$45 ($65 after Aug. 18)
RSVP Date: Suggested by August 18

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=IsiLzbdaceZhGz&b=ymZlabI31dlknM9oZWrDnQ

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Women’s Power Lunch

Come be a part of the longest running networking luncheon in the
Pittsburgh area. Bring 50 business cards or brochures to hand
out and be prepared to give a short presentation on your business
to introduce yourself to other business women and professionals.

Date: August 20, 2015
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Place: To be announced
Cost: $25.00 (Prepayment required)
RSVP: By August 18th

Questions: Contact Suzanne at Suzanne@womenspowerlunch.com
or 724-452-5152.

Register online at: http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=IsiLzbdaceZhGz&b=yjYH2aNDdeKfG2JXxDnd7Q

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Nine Price & Fee Failures to Avoid Like the Plaque

Speakers:
Becky Auer & Weston Lyon

Date: August 25, 2015
Time: 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Place: Sigma’s Conference & Event Center,
1717 Backcock Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15209
Sponsor: No BS Marketing Meeting
Cost: FREE for First Time Guests; $20 for Returning Guests
RSVP Date: August 21

Registration Web Address:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=IsiLzbdaceZhGz&b=JD_rVwgc8SynD4cSMdSQGA

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Jazz Happy Hour Networking

A casual twice-a month networking event for those interested in
business innovation in Pittsburgh. A jazz, soul and blues
happy hour show plus open-mike interviews with local executives.

Created by Jessica Lee, a successful entrepreneur and musician,
Jessica Lee’s Jazz Happy Hour promotes live music in downtown
Pittsburgh and assists the entrepreneurial networking of the
region with funding and partnering opportunities.

Date: August 26, 2015
Time: 6:00 - 8 p.m.
Place: Rivers Club, One Oxford Center, Pittsburgh, PA
Host: Jessica Lee
Cost: $5 (hors d’ouevres included)

Jazz Networking events are held on the second and final
Wednesdays of each month. For information on upcoming events,
visit http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=IsiLzbdaceZhGz&b=17FgOrQgdPYNXSQ0K3L0RQ

To RSVP, call 412-391-5227 or email erin.sustar@ourclub.com.

Business Exchange Networking Lunch

* Give a 1-2 minute commercial for your business.
* Bring business cards, brochures, and samples.
* Make new business contacts.

Dates and Locations:

July 8- Mount Lebanon, The Devonshire of Mount Lebanon,
1050 McNeilly Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15226
RSVP: email Carol Briney at Carol@CarolABriney.com

July 22- Fox Chapel, Comfort Inn (Old Holiday Inn) in RIDC Park,
Ohara Twp
RSVP: email Carol Briney at
Carol@CarolABriney.com

Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Cost: $18 (Bring cash; No-shows will be billed for the lunch)
RSVP: By Monday prior to the event

For more info, go to: http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=JS2OQT2KseZhGz&b=I.FoVxI7CTVWZqCJlp0fHA.

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Business for Breakfast Networking Event

Topic: Tell Your Brand’s Story

Featuring: Craig Seder, Creative Director and
Jeff Lizik, Director of Digital, C-leveled

Craig Seder and Jeff Lizik at C-leveled, will share insights and
strategies for building your brand along with cost-effective tips
on SEO and SEM. They will give specific examples of what big
companies are doing right.

Marketers will learn how to:

•Understand your brand
•Find your place in the market
•Figure out what your brand stands for
•Zig when you zag
•Decide when it’s ok to be different

Network with fellow business professionals, enjoy a continental
breakfast and listen to an interesting and informative program.

Date: July 14, 2015
Time: 8:00 - 9:30 a.m.
Place: Rivers Club, 301 Grant Street Pittsburgh PA 15219
Host: Pittsburgh Business Times
Cost: $25 (includes continental breakfast)
RSVP: Suggested by July 10th

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=JS2OQT2KseZhGz&b=NVPM2OJ92wij5Xa92Kj1mA

For more info, contact Kelli Komondor at 412-208-3845 or
komondor@bizjournals.com.

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Philanthropic Networking Event

A new event raising up to $10,000 at quarterly, one-hour
meetings benefiting women’s initiatives locally and globally.
Your commitment of $100 per quarter is 100% tax deductible so
join now and Nominate your favorite non-profit! Cash Bar and
Food Available.

Date: July 15, 2015
Time: 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Place: DoubleTree By Hilton – Cranberry
Host: Inspired Women Paying it Forward
Cost: $100
RSVP: Suggested by July 10th

Questions: call Debra Dion Krischke at 724-935-6100

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=JS2OQT2KseZhGz&b=44up9d1wLN5pPxyDS1pg5g

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Summer Business Social

Join us for our July “Summer Business Social” on the outside
deck of Savoy in the Strip District. Enjoy light-bites and drinks
while mingling with over 250 business professionals.

Date: Friday, July 15, 2015
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Place: SAVOY, 2623 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Host: Pittsburgh Social Exchange
Sponsoring Organization: Pittsburgh Social Exchange
Cost: PSE & Monroeville Chamber Members-$15, Non-members-$55
($65 after July 14)
RSVP Date: Suggested by July 13

For more information, contact Kimberly Baker at kim@pghse.com
or 412-265-2315

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=JS2OQT2KseZhGz&b=sBSDkgMgh7JPxe3XFEV2sA

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Network After Work at McFadden’s

Network After Work is America’s premier face-to-face business
networking company with monthly mixer events in over 40 cities
catering to nearly one million members. Attendees make valuable
connections with other members of their business community while
enjoying different exciting venues including clubs, restaurants,
hotels and special event locations. Events attract a diverse mix
of up to several hundred professionals from all industries and
career levels. It all takes place on a weekday right after work
in a fun and relaxed atmosphere conducive to making connections.

Name-tags color coded by industries help sort through the many
opportunities while a free drink and light bites before 7 p.m.
helps get the ball rolling right from the start.

Date: July 16, 2015
Time: 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Place: McFaddens’s, 211 N Shore Dr Pittsburgh PA 15212
Host: Network After Work
Cost: $15 in advance /$20 with RSVP at door/$25 without RSVP
RSVP: Suggested by July 13

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=JS2OQT2KseZhGz&b=GIOiJL4SgNGwMz6ko3eLKw

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Women’s Power Lunch

Come be a part of the longest running networking luncheon in the
Pittsburgh area. Bring 50 business cards or brochures to hand
out and be prepared to give a short presentation on your business
to introduce yourself to other business women and professionals.

Date: July 17, 2015
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Place: Andora’s Restaurant, Rt. 228, Adams Shoppes, Mars PA 16046
Cost: $25.00 (Prepayment required)
RSVP: By July 15th

Questions: Contact Suzanne at Suzanne@womenspowerlunch.com
or 724-452-5152.

Register online at: http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=JS2OQT2KseZhGz&b=Ztg7NnzVC92mxI.6oQqokg

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Jazz Happy Hour Networking

A casual twice-a month networking event for those interested in
business innovation in Pittsburgh. A jazz, soul and blues
happy hour show plus open-mike interviews with local executives.
Created by Jessica Lee, a successful entrepreneur and musician,
Jessica Lee’s Jazz Happy Hour promotes live music in downtown
Pittsburgh and assists the entrepreneurial networking of the
region with funding and partnering opportunities.

Date: July 23, 2015
Time: 6:00 - 8 p.m.
Place: Village Tavern, 424 S. Main St., West Inn Village,
Pittsburgh
Host: Jessica Lee
Cost: $5 (hors d’ouevres included)

Jazz Networking events are held on the second and final
Wednesdays of each month. For information on upcoming events,
visit http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=JS2OQT2KseZhGz&b=ofnx2KqxKKqL73RGx1G.Vg

To RSVP, call 412-391-5227 or email erin.sustar@ourclub.com.

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Wonderful Websites: Attracting New Business Via the Internet

Moderated by Beth Caldwell, Publicity Expert

coming together to empower you at this breakfast panel.

Join us to learn how you can create a website that:

• Works as a support system to grow your business
• Establishes you as a leading authority and expert
• Appears up-to-date and relevant
• Compliments your overall brand
• Attracts your ideal client
• Turns visitors into sales

This workshop includes breakfast, a panel discussion and
the opportunity to ask your individual questions to our panel.

Date: July 24, 2015
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Place: DoubleTree Pittsburgh Green Tree 500 Mansfield Ave,
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Host: Pittsburgh Professional Women
Cost: Members-$39; Non Members-$49
RSVP: Suggested by July 17

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=JS2OQT2KseZhGz&b=bSjOMuvHeWrcjzDropKXsQ

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Four Fantastic Ways to Leverage Yourself & Multiply Your Income

Speakers:
Becky Auer & Weston Lyon

Date: July 28, 2015
Time: 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Place: Sigma’s Conference & Event Center,
1717 Backcock Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15209
Sponsor: No BS Marketing Meeting
Cost: FREE for First Time Guests; $20 for Returning Guests
RSVP Date: July 24

Registration Web Address:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=JS2OQT2KseZhGz&b=xn3f9P91AoqS21WfesH7iA

Join us for a special round table discussion for tips and tricks on what works and what doesn’t work. This is your opportunity to talk to others on what they have tried and share your wins and losses with others.

Panera (Waterworks Plaza, Fox Chapel)

942 Freeport Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15238

July 28th, 8 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Coffee and Pastries provided

Register online here-Advanced Registration required (http://na-win.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b1220fb479c0ee89c05bf89d6&id=1b2f14b92c&e=83992c2366)

Summer Cocktails After Work

Happy Summer! Looking forward to a great July! Join us and Celebrate Summer!

Network with other professional women!

Benefiting The Highmark Caring Place

A casual summer gathering … Thursday, July 30th 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Fairmont Hotel (Meet us in the lobby at the Blue Chairs)

510 Market Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Consider making a donation to the Highmark Caring Place
Register online here (http://na-win.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b1220fb479c0ee89c05bf89d6&id=2b31aedff1&e=83992c2366)

Mothering Sunday

Celebrating Mothers and their day dates back to 1600s in England. Referred to as Mothering Sunday , this day was celebrated annually on the fourth Sunday of Lent to honor mothers. After a prayer service in church to honor Mary, children brought gifts and flowers to pay tribute to their own mothers.
On this occasion, servants, apprentices and other employees staying away from their homes were encouraged by their employers to visit their mothers and honor them. Traditionally children brought with them gifts and a special fruit cake or fruit-filled pastry.
Julia Ward Howe
The idea of official celebration of Mothers day in US was first suggested by Julia Ward Howe in 1872. An activist, writer and poet Julia shot to fame with her famous Civil War song, “Battle Hymn of the Republic”. Julia Ward Howe suggested that June 2 be annually celebrated as Mothers Day and should be dedicated to peace. She wrote a passionate appeal to women and urged them to rise against war in her famous Mothers Day Proclamation, written in Boston in 1870. She also initiated a Mothers’ Peace Day observance on the second Sunday in June in Boston and held the meeting for a number of years. Julia tirelessly championed the cause of official celebration of Mothers Day and declaration of official holiday on the day. Her idea spread but was later replaced by the Mother’s Day holiday now celebrated in May.
Anna Jarvis
Jarvis is recognized as the Founder of Mothers Day in US. Though Anna Jarvis never married and never had kids, she is also known as the Mother of Mothers Day, an apt title for the woman who worked hard to bestow honor on all mothers.
Anna Jarvis was inspired to celebrate Mother’s on a special day from her own mother Mrs Anna Marie Reeves Jarvis in her childhood. An activist and social worker, Mrs Jarvis used to express her desire that someday someone must honor all mothers, living and dead, and pay tribute to the contributions made by them.
A loving daughter, Anna never forgot her mothers word and when her mother died in 1905, she resolved to fulfill her mothers desire of having a mothers day. Growing negligent attitude of adult Americans towards their mothers and a desire to honor her mothers soared her ambitions.
Anna together with her supporters wrote letters to people in positions of power lobbying for the official declaration of Mothers Day holiday. The hard work paid off. By 1911, Mother’s Day was celebrated in almost every state in the Union and on May 8, 1914 President Woodrow Wilson signed a Joint Resolution designating the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.
Present Day Celebrations
Today Mothers Day is celebrated in several countries including US, UK, India, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Turkey, Australia, Mexico, Canada, China, Japan and Belgium. People take the day as an opportunity to pay tribute to their mothers and thank them for all their love and support. The day has become hugely popular and in several countries phone lines witness maximum traffic. There is also a tradition of gifting flowers, cards and others gift to mothers on the Mothers Day. The festival has become commercialized to a great extent. Florists, card manufacturers and gift sellers see huge business potential in the day and make good money through a rigorous advertising campaign.

It is unfortunate to note that Ms Anna Jarvis, who devoted her life for the declaration of Mothers Day holiday was deeply hurt to note the huge commercialization of the day.

Nureni is a business owner, a wife and a mother. Through Water.org she has access to a safe water tap in her kitchen. Read more about how this tap has helped her earn an income to put her son through school.
Nureni runs a breakfast shop out of her home which is situated in the center of Lembangsari Village, a small village outside of Tangerange, Indonesia. Nureni’s husband farms the rice fields that grow a short distance from their thatched-roof house
Each morning when her husband leaves for work, Nureni heads to the kitchen where she now has a water tap. She is able to boil fresh water to prepare a traditional rice and coconut dish of which she sells to neighbors and passers-by. The money she makes from selling this breakfast food helps to put her son through school.
Nureni’s son Rhian, is sixteen years old and he is in school learning to be a motorcycle mechanic. Thanks to the support his parents have provided him, Rhian will graduate from trade school next year. He looks forward to interning, and hopefully working at the motorcycle manufacturing plant just up the road from his family’s home.
Nureni is so pleased that through access to safe water, she is able to cook and sell food from her home. Furthermore, she is excited Rhian will graduation soon, and eventually have a career in motorcycle manufacturing. We look forward to the day every mom can share Nureni’s pride and joy, we look forward to the day every mom has access to safe water.
In honor of every mom who needs access to safe water, send the mom in your life a Mother’s Day eCard through www.Water.org For each greeting you send for $25, one person will get access to safe water.

Indonesia

Capital City: Jakarta

Population of 250 million

37 million lack safe water

102 million lack sanitation

Infant mortality rate of 2.5%

43% of population live on less than US$2 per day

1. Business Exchange Networking Lunch
* Give a 1-2 minute commercial for your business.
* Bring business cards, brochures, and samples.
* Make new business contacts.
Dates and Locations:

May 6 - Wexford, Four Points by Sheraton Pittsbugh
910 Sheraton Drive, Mars/Wexford, PA 16046
RSVP: email Carol Briney at
Carol@CarolABriney.com

May 13 - Mount Lebanon, The Devonshire of Mount Lebanon,
1050 McNeilly Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15226
RSVP: email Carol Briney at Carol@CarolABriney.com

May 27- Fox Chapel, Comfort Inn (Old Holiday Inn) in RIDC Park,
Ohara Twp
RSVP: email Carol Briney at
Carol@CarolABriney.com

Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Cost: $18 (Bring cash; No-shows will be billed for the lunch)
RSVP: By Monday prior to the event

For more info, go to: http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=p20OAcTROxFypoQ44aAFUQ.

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Lead Like a Girl

Speaker: Tacy M Byham, Ph.D., Senior Vice President of DDI

The business case for diversity has never been stronger.
Organizations with more women consistently perform better
financially, according to data from The Global Leadership
Forecast 2014/2015 from DDI and The Conference Board.
So, although more women graduate from college than men
and are earning entry-level jobs in fields previously
dominated by men, women are still outnumbered in the
ranks of leadership. Come and listen to Tacy talk about
finding your strength and the leader within you, exploring
the confidence gap, identifying your personal wake-up call,
and super power your network!

visit our website at http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=Nl.xDQeB9eBv694ujNYhjg

Date: May 8, 2015
Time: 7:30 AM - 9:30 AM (Breakfast served at 7:30 AM)
Place: James Laughlin Music Hall, Chatham University, Shadyside
Host: The Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Chatham University
Cost: $25 (includes continental breakfast)
Students- $12 with valid ID (Email pdecker@chatham.edu)
RSVP: Suggested by May 5

Questions? Contact 412-365-1253

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=Nl.xDQeB9eBv694ujNYhjg

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Deepening the Coaching Relationship: Gestalt!

Presented by Ann Begler and Joanne Martin

Coaches often focus on supporting clients to achieve specific
targets or goals. Coaching from a Gestalt stance is uniquely
present centered, and captures action choices existing in the
moment that will yield long term impact. Gestalt coaching is
integrative and emphasizes awareness building in the two
parallel processes of coach and client.

In this highly experiential program you will learn and practice
with foundational Gestalt tools that support this present-centered
approach: Gestalt awareness, contact boundaries, the cycle of
experience and the use of self as instrument.

This program will offer Coaches the opportunity to enhance their
coaching skills in three ICF core competency clusters:

1. Co-creating the relationship
2. Communicating effectively
3. Facilitating learning and results

Learning Objectives and Expected Outcomes:

Date: May 12, 2015
Place: Sheraton Hotel at Station Square,
300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Time: 9:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Registration and Networking
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Presentation
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lunch
Host: International Coach Federation, Pittsburgh Chapter
Cost: By 5 p.m., May 8: Members -$59, Nonmembers-$75.
After 5 p.m., May 8: Members-$75, Nonmembers-$75

Register online at
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=Bx692Q5NYmSNkPUJeAvBZA

Further info: contact Roberta Rollings at Pghcoachesassoc@aol.com.

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Bizwomen Connect Networking Mixer

Make new connections and build your business. During the
reception, you will also have the opportunity to have a
complimentary professional head shot taken and made available
following the event.

Your reservation includes:
•Delicious hors d’oeuvres and appetizers
•Two drink tickets

Metered parking is available on Penn Avenue and you may also park
in the Savoy parking lot.

Date: May 13, 2015
Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Place: Savoy Restaurant, 2623 Penn Avenue Pittsburgh PA 15222
Host: Pittsburgh Business Times
Cost: $35 (Business Times Subscribers- $31.50)
RSVP: Required in advance

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=8ihKXnqoC.zqSaeTo2g0XQ

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Entrepreneur’s Growth Conference
Keynote Speaker:
Bill Sarris, Sarris Candies

Discover ideas that can transform your business. Choose from 12
expert-led workshops on the hottest topics in business today.
Workshops on strategic planning, management, finance, marketing,
starting a business, and more. A business building trade show
featuring more than 50 support organizations. Unparalleled
networking opportunities with entrepreneurial veterans, top
service providers and the region’s most promising entrepreneurs.

Date: May 15, 2015
Time: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Place: Duquesne University, 600 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh
Host: Duquesne University Small Business Development Center
Cost: Full Day-$119: Half Day-$79
Full day fee includes continental breakfast, discount parking,
luncheon, workshops & business-building trade show.
RSVP: Required to receive advance price.

Questions: Call 412-396-1633.

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=VQPYlydrwt9U._spKKbf3A

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Make Your Brand Statement

Presented by Beth Caldwell and Elissa Ashwood

“Brand” is a hot new buzz term that essentially means your
professional image. What message do you send about yourself
and your company? This helpful presentation gives you an
instant to-do list and strategies on how to polish your image
both inside and outside of work.

Date: May 15, 2015
Time: 9:00 - 11:30 p.m.
Place: Sigma’s Conference and Event Center,
1717 Babcock Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15209
Host: Pittsburgh Professional Women
RSVP: Early registration encouraged

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=Ahz2Lca9OJgdcQsypQd0gQ

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Women’s Power Lunch

Come be a part of the longest running networking luncheon in the
Pittsburgh area. Bring 50 business cards or brochures to hand
out and be prepared to give a short presentation on your business
to introduce yourself to other business women and professionals.

Date: May 15, 2015
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Place: To be announced
Cost: $22.00 (Prepayment required)
RSVP: By May 13th

Questions: Contact Suzanne at Suzanne@womenspowerlunch.com
or 724-452-5152.

Register online at: http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=8nndmMJQzAwMMjy2tXRn5Q

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Sharing Your Expertise from the Platform and Beyond

Presented by Elizabeth Jeffriesm CSP and Stephen Tweed, CSP

Are you considered an expert in your topic and/or your niche
market? Do you love platform speaking but that’s the main or
only source of income you’ve focused on for your business?
Have you ever delivered a fabulous speech, accepted accolades
and then went on to the next engagement?

If you are saying YES to these questions, you are probably
leaving business on the table and not serving your clients
to the fullest!

In this inspiring morning full of ideas and how-to’s, you will
be challenged to look at your business differently and to learn
additional ways to capture your expertise. Whether it’s consulting,
coaching, learning assessments, books, webinars, eBooks, online
learning systems, membership sites, master minds and more, you’ll
leave this session with new ideas on how to leverage what you know,
who you know, and what skills are necessary to go to the next level
in your business. By sharing your expertise in multiple ways, you
will better serve your clients, and increase your bottom line.

Date: May 16, 2015
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 12 noon
Location: Sheraton Station Square, 300 W Station Square Dr,
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Host: National Speakers Association, Pittsburgh Chapter
Cost: NSA Members & Affiliates-$45; Nonmembers-$55
(Includes networking lunch.)
RSVP: Suggested by May 13th

For more information and to register, go to:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=g4R1yCaReRz9H4YJf4KVBQ.

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Business for Breakfast Networking Event

Topic: Don’t Let Content Be a Crutch:
What You Must Know about Digital and Social Marketing

Featuring: Dave Mahoney, VP, Digital Strategy and Marketing,
Renegade Communication

Dave and the Renegade team frequently encounter companies and
organizations with great content that gets posted, shared a bit,
grabs some engagement….yet has little impact on generating sales
or donations. He will show you the digital and social tools that
get content read and acted upon at scale, how to use digital
advertising to change your business, and what’s also now in
beta testing at Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Google, Instagram,
and more. Stay ahead of the competition through these insider
tips and stop spinning your wheels on techniques and trendy
digital platforms that won’t work for your unique business needs.
It’s 12 years of digital learning in 45 minutes!

Network with fellow business professionals, enjoy a continental
breakfast and listen to an interesting and informative program.

Date: May 19, 2015
Time: 8:00 - 9:30 a.m.
Place: Doubletree Monroeville Convention Center,
101 Mall Boulevard Pittsburgh PA 15146
Host: Pittsburgh Business Times
Cost: $25 (includes continental breakfast)
RSVP: Suggested by May 15th

Register online at:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=.WEZgcw8aNZ1JFcgFeVovA

For more info, contact Kelli Komondor at 412-208-3845 or
komondor@bizjournals.com.

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Small Business Tools and Support

Speakers:
Barbara Mohajery, Lawyer
Michael Mohajery, Past Score Chair

Join us to learn how a SCORE mentor can be your guide to
developing a strong business plan and understanding your
business financials.

Date: May 20, 2015
Time: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Place: Volunteers of America, 1650 Main Street, Sharpsburg, PA
Host: Volunteers of America of Pennsylvania
Cost: Free (Bring a brown bag lunch)

To register, call 412.782.5344 (x209) or email
volunteersofamerica@voapa.org

Disability Resource Breakfast

Date: Thursday, May 21, 2015

Time: 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM

Topic: Future Plans and Concerns For People with Disabilities and Their Families

Speaker: Rebecca Tyers, Achieva
What considerations should you be including in your long-term planning for family members with disabilities. What are the basics of Special Needs Trusts and what is new in the ABLE Act? Learn more about what help is available to develop the best possible
Three Easy Ways to Get Every Customer to Sing Your Praises

Speakers:
Becky Auer & Weston Lyon

Becky Auer & Weston Lyon will show you how to easily get customers
to sing your praises - AND - leverage their voice to create trust
and credibility with prospects looking to hand you money!

Date: May 26, 2015
Time: 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Place: Sigma’s Conference & Event Center,
1717 Backcock Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15209
Sponsor: No BS Marketing Meeting
Cost: FREE for First Time Guests; $20 for Returning Guests
RSVP Date: May 22

Registration Web Address:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=pTht4csv5g5Jj.1gdxRZvA

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Jazz Happy Hour Networking

A casual twice-a month networking event for those interested in
business innovation in Pittsburgh. A jazz, soul and blues
happy hour show plus open-mike interviews with local executives.

Created by Jessica Lee, a successful entrepreneur and musician,
Jessica Lee’s Jazz Happy Hour promotes live music in downtown
Pittsburgh and assists the entrepreneurial networking of the
region with funding and partnering opportunities.

Date: May 27, 2015
Time: 5:30 - 8 p.m.
Place: Rivers Club, 301 Grant Street, Level Four,
One Oxford Centre, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Host: Jessica Lee
Cost: $5 (hors d’ouevres included)

Jazz Networking events are held on the second and final
Wednesdays of each month. For information on upcoming events,
visit http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4gu7_&m=K392KwYxreZhGz&b=yzHlWcc3pgzi0fJQI_plUA

To RSVP, call 412-391-5227 or email erin.sustar@ourclub.com