I hope you are having a good start in the new year! It’s been a while since I really got out networking and I really do miss my friends and colleagues. I realize with the economy’s impact, several businesses are being forced out of business and those holding on really need an improvement. I do wish everyone much success in 2009!
I was just remembering how much fun I had networking and meeting people and establishing relationships. I opened a small shop in Hutto, located at 204 East. Highway 79, Suite 103. Having a location is a big change for me. I am currently looking for sales people or am even considering sharing my shop with a potential partner. Email me at info@qualitymonogramming.com if you are interested or know someone who might be interested.
About networking, it is very important, especially if you are participating in the right network. There are several types. Some focus on a trade or industry and some, like BNI focus on referrals. If your local chambers of commerce provides networking opportunities, they can be very helpful.
I am glad to say I am getting back out in the network scene. I recently visited four different network groups, two of which are having open houses in the next couple of weeks.
One is Terra Vista Network that meets on Tuesday morning at the Terra Vista Ranch House from 7:30 to 9. Cost is $10. Their open house last year brought in over 50 businesses!
The other is my BNI Chapter that meets at Cool River Cafe on Wednesday from 11:30 to 1. Cost isnormally $16, but if you are interested, drop me an email and I’ll sent you an invitation and free lunch. Our visiting day is February 4th. This group allows only one member per profession, so you might want to check out the list of members. They are a terrific group that is one of the oldest BNI chapters in the area! Here’s the link. I highly recommend each member. http://www.bniaustin.com/cgi-bin/viewmember.cgi?chapter_id=80
I am happy to say that the Hutto Chamber will be hosting open networking from 11:30 till 1 starting in March. I urge you to attend and see and learn about changes in Hutto and doing business in Hutto. Great jo on keeping things together without a director, Liz Beans!
The Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber does an incredible job of creating networking opportunities and promoting training and community involvement. I wish I had more time to participate more in events. This organization is lead by Andy Martinez, a true leader! His efforts resulted in a large increase in membership. Way to go Andy!
Well, about business, I am closing down the original website at www.rrqme-tx.com and redirecting traffic to our new website at www.qualitymonogramming.com. We have also opened aspect to our business called Quality Promotions. That website is under construction. Quality Monogramming is only one aspect of services and products we will be offering. We now offer promotional products, trade show needs, banners, signs, etc. Let us help you “Promote with Quality!”
Another project of mine has been helping found the new Hutto Education Foundation. Our mission is the raise funds to provide grants to Hutto I.S.D. to enrich and enhance education. We recently had our annual meeting and have elected new officers. Congratulations to the new executive board and welcome new members. It is going to be a very successful year. Last year we established a solid foundation and the development of an incredible board of directors. This year we will contiue our conversion to a fundraising board. We are in the process of establishing fundraising programs. It’s a very exciting time. If your business has a corporate giving program or is interested in helping us in our mission, which is to Enable Education Excellence, please give us a call. We will be looking for Event sponsors.
We are currently holding our Founders Drive that will go through March 30th, 2009. Thank you to our Level Sponsors!
Golden Hippo Founders – $5000 level
K.A. Hickman Archhitects & Interior Designers
Pfluger Associates Architects
Silver Hippo Founders – $2500 level
Embarq
Baird / Williams Construction, L.T.D.
Bronze Hippo Founders – $1000 level
Edmund & Julia Schmidt
Hutto Lion’s Club
A+ Credit Union
Our goal is to raise $50,000. So far, we have raised $20,000. Visit our website at www.huttoeducationfoundation.org for more details.
I hope to see you as I get out there and network again. Please forward details of new networks you are part of. I look forward to hearing from you.
Cindy
