New Beginnings!  
January is one of my favorite months because it is a time of new beginnings and fresh starts.  Our future is a product of our past, so January is a time to reflect on what we have accomplished and lessons we have learned, and to set new goals for the year ahead. 
 
We have chosen January to kick off the premiere issue of our electronic newsletter because January is a month of new beginnings.  This format will give us the opportunity to substantially increase the amount and quality of the information we bring to you.  Several of the new articles you will see introduced within the next few months are “Author’s Corner,” “Members Making News,” “NAWBO Regional Directors Report” and “Community Calendar”, as well as more articles on issues of importance to women business owners.
 
As you read this, I will be in Austin attending the swearing-in ceremony for Gwyn Shea, the new Secretary of State for the State of Texas.  I met Gwyn one Saturday afternoon many years ago, when she was campaigning door-to-door for her first term in the Texas House.  Our friendship has grown over the years, just as Gwyn’s political career has soared.  She is a gutsy, smart woman with a keen understanding of politics and a genuine love for the people of Texas.  She will serve us well in Austin.
 
Our January program will feature another gutsy woman who has shaped and continues to shape the political scene on a national, state and local level – Texas Senator Florence Shapiro.  Jean Burgard, our director of public policy, has asked this political powerhouse to share her story and perspective on politics, and to give us some insights to what is ahead for us in 2002.  Please plan to attend and help show the strength and vitality of our chapter to this influential woman.
 
Our focus on politics will continue with NAWBO Public Policy Days in Washington, D.C., February 3-5.  NAWBO Public Policy Days educates attendees on key issues impacting women-owned businesses, on how to advocate small- business issues before Congress, and on how to put Congressional leaders in front of NAWBO members to discuss current legislation, political initiatives and future policy trends. For detailed information and to register for Public Policy Days, please contact NAWBO at 800-55-NAWBO, and ask for Maria Brennan (ext. 234) or Beth Lacquement (ext. 233).
 
Also, remember to mark your calendar for a Networking Event with the Texas Society of CPAs on January 15.  (See the Calendar of Events for details.)  Many thanks to Janae Chamblee for her part in bringing this opportunity to us.
 
See you there!