CYFEN Newsletter - January 2018

CYFEN NEWS January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

CYFEN NEWS

Cy-Fair Express Network
A League of the American Business

Women’s Association

Inside this issue:

Letter from the President ................2
FHPW .............................................3
Chamber of Commerce ..................4
HAC ................................................4
Scholarship Recipent ......................5
Hospitality Holiday ..........................6
Christmas at CYFEN ......................7
Member News ................................8
Meeting News ................................9

The mission of the American Welcome our Newest Members!
Business Women’s Association is
to bring together businesswomen of Melissa Brotsch Peggy Garner
diverse occupations and to provide LifeVantage Cypress Lifestyle

opportunities for them to help
themselves and others grow
personally and professionally through
leadership, education, networking

support, and
national recognition.

(New members joining at end of quarter will be visible on ABWA member list next quarter)

CYFEN NEWS January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

Letter from the President

and we laughed out loud for 2 hours! for welcoming guests and introducing
December was a month to remember giving them to members that would serve
and receiving in more ways than one. The as a good referral partner. We have
month started with several of our members, a board member at each table and at
Pat, Elizabeth, and Nicole, manning Pat’s the beginning of every meeting, I state
Balloon Float at the annual Parade of Lights. that we have a board member at each
Pat and Elizabeth brought home 2nd Place! table and encourage guests to sit next
Although it was chilly and drizzly, it wouldn’t to her to ask questions and learn from
stop a fun time had by all who watched her. To increase participation in APEX
and participated. Our awesome Hospitality online training, we created an Education
Committee planned and executed a CYFEN Advisory Committee. Not only does the
Cookie Exchange. Awards included Best committee announce scholarships and
Cookie, Most Creative Cookie, and Worst dates for applications, the committee
Cookie, to name a few. It was a night to is also available to walk new users
remember, not only because of the fun and of Community Connections through
fellowship, but because it was SNOWING the steps to take the online classes.
when we left the venue! For those new to We have made it more affordable for
South Texas, it rarely snows in Houston. members to complete fee-based classes
Facebook blew up with posts from by offering reimbursement. And we
families enjoying the novel weather event. have recognition in place to reward the
first two members who complete two
Dear CYFEN Members, The snow brought more joy to CYFEN. The class series. We would like to develop
Executive Board welcomed our newest a training webinar to help members
#WEMADEIT: It’s a new year and a new member. Angela Altamuro stepped into achieve their goals of completing the
day for CYFEN. The first quarter is behind the role of VP of Finance soon after the online training. This is a work in progress.
us.Hurricane Harvey came and went, position was vacated. Angela comes with
although rebuilding continues for many extensive experience in finance, so we were As with every year, a major goal is to
in our community. The Houston Astros confident that the rapid transition would be decrease the likelihood of attrition.
took the World Series Pennant, leaving smooth. As her first position on the board, We want to have 80% of membership
Mattress Mack and Gallery Furniture she has proven to be a fast learner and a renewals, at the very least, to keep our
out a few million dollars. And in the team player. Our annual gift exchange was organization strong. The basis of a strong
second quarter with winter approaching, the theme for our December luncheon. It organization is to have a foundation
we had new weather challenges. That was clear that our members continue to be of veteran members that are willing to
is, snow and ice? Yes, but nothing more aggressive when the gifts are of the mentor new members. We certainly
would stop our village this time. adult beverage nature. Pillows, blankets, have that, but this year, we want that
and jewelry are always a second best. And foundation to be stronger than ever. Our
Our November 16th luncheon was all picture this: your President came dressed board listed 4 actions to achieve this
about speed networking. We were wowed as an Elf, and your President-Elect came as goal: 1) Monitor member attendance and
by one of our own, Kerrie Saeger, as she Mrs. Claus. We know who works for who! contact a member if she or he misses
taught us how to build relationships, and two consecutive meetings, 2) encourage
what NOT to do when networking. Our We are more than happy to say goodbye member engagement, 3) recognize those
greatest success of the month was a vote to 2017, and all it’s woes, as we welcome members “caught in the act” of doing
in favor to approve our revised Standing the New Year! And a new year brings new something good for the community or for
Rules. We were able to re-allocate $1200 questions for the CYFEN board. Mainly, “Are ABWA, and 4) encourage new members
to be used to reimburse primary members we reaching our goals as set at the Board to attend New Member Orientation to
when they complete the fee-based APEX Retreat in July,” and if not, “Where do we learn what their membership truly means,
online classes! As promised, I want our need to improve to reach those goals?” and how they can participate in CYFEN
extra money to be used for education I am happy to say, that our team is doing to build stronger bonds and friendships.
and recognition. And what better way to well. In general, our Key Result Areas and Today, we have 67 members, but only
recognize those who strive for success Goals are 1) To make guests feel welcome 32, on average, come to our monthly
through education? We pay for their and guide them during our meetings, 2) luncheons. Why? We understand that
classes, and the first two members to show Increase awareness and participation our members have work or family
two certificates of completion receive a in APEX and online training, and 3) commitments that prevent them from
sterling silver butterfly necklace to remind Thus, decrease the likelihood of attrition. attending daytime luncheons. So we offer
them that they have taken flight! For fun, other events at nighttime and on weekends
members of CYFEN along with our sister To achieve a welcoming atmosphere for to be available for those members. When
league, WEWEN, had a private night at guests, we have developed a Visitor Host I stand at the podium and begin our
the theater to see Bad Mom’s Christmas. Committee, which is still developing each meeting, I scan the room and notice that
We had the whole theater to ourselves month. The committee is responsible the majority of those attending are guests,

CYFEN NEWS January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

or members that are part of a committee or Federation of Houston Professional Women
on the board. It clearly shows the importance
of having a responsibility, big or small, to HOUSTON, TX (January 22, 2018) The also spoke about creating ownership
increase member engagement. Our board FHPW Quarterly meeting was held on so the employees will think of the com-
is diligently working on these actions to build January 22nd at the Norris Conference pany as their own. At the end, Lorraine
and strengthen our foundation and prove Center. There were several businesses asked for two volunteers to come to the
that activity in an organization will reap that participated as a Vendor highlight- stage to help her with a demonstration.
benefits far beyond a few sales. It is true ing their products and services. D’Ann D’Ann Gummelt and Elizabeth Hale vol-
when they say, “If you show up, you go up.” Gummelt, Cathy Conrad and Elizabeth unteered. They had to compete to blow
Hale set up a vendor table to hand up a balloon airplane! Elizabeth won and
Attendance at our January luncheon was no out Save the Date cards for our CY- received one of Lorraine’s books “Les-
different than that of the previous luncheons. FEN EXPO that will be coming up on sons in Loyalty”. The meeting wrapped
Our speaker, Chaille Ralph, is the owner of a April 28th at Lonestar College. We had up with the FHPW Board reporting on
large local real estate office who presented, many CYFEN ladies here tonight rep- their business reports and committee up-
“I’d rather die than speak in front of a crowd.” resenting and supporting the FHPW. dates. The FHPW Educational Founda-
Using humor and personal examples, she The meeting was called to order by the tion reminded everyone that the Online
taught us to say Yes to speaking in front of new president, Gail Prather. She intro- Application for the 2018 Scholarships is
people and doing favors for people. Each duced the 2018 Board of Directors and now available at www.form.jotform.com/
time we do it, our fear diminishes and we explained this years focus on “Women fhpw/efscholarship. The deadline for
improve. The EXPO Committee, headed Forging New Successes”! The key note the application submission is March 31,
up by our VP of Outreach, Patty Bergfield, speaker, Lorraine Grubbs was very in- 2018. There was also an update from
continues to do an amazing job gathering spiring with her “Secrets Award-Win- the new Gala Director, Debra Dunn-Kur-
vendors and sponsors for the April EXPO. ning Companies Use to Build a Happy zadkowski on the Gala. The new 2018
And your very own President, Dr. Michelle, Workplace”. Lorraine is an Internation- FHPW Board has a Challenge for all the
earned the 4th quarter Ambassador of al Woman of Excellence winner from leagues to invite one guest to the next
the Quarter, and her business, Shots 1978 and has written several books on meeting, serve on one of the committees,
for Holly, was named a Non-profit of the teaching the value of putting people and to share what you learn at the meet-
first. She worked for Southwest Airlines ings with other members in your league.
In closing, 2018 promises to be a monumental for many years and created many “Bea- Save the following dates: The quarterly
year with changes and improvements to cons” to help keep, motivate and lead meetings for 2018 are April 23, July 23 and
CYFEN. With 5 veteran and 4 brand new the employees to a happy and healthy October 22. The Annual Gala and Silent
board members, we’re learning and growing workplace. She also interviewed the top Auction will be on September 15 at The
together. It is perfect timing for ABWA’s new companies in Houston to find out what Norris Center to honor our next CYFEN
logo, “Be Bold, Be Brave, Be You!” Just get out they were doing to make keep their em- Woman of Excellence. (By Nicole Travis,
there and be yourself! Do what people think ployees engaged and motivated. She FHPW Delegate - Texas Select Realty)
you won’t do. And just make it memorable!

Peace Out!

“Whatever you do, be different -
that was the advice my mother
gave me, and I can’t think
of better advice for an
entrepreneur. If you’re different,
you will stand out.”

– Anita Roddick

CYFEN NEWS January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce

This quarter, the Cy-fair Houston anywhere between $50.00 and
Chamber of Commerce had $200.00. The January luncheon
2 luncheons. The November was all about recognizing the past
luncheon included a large business- Chamber Board of Directors and
2-business EXPO. Many of our installing the new Chairman of the
CYFEN members were present Board and board members. The
either attending the EXPO or outgoing Chairman of the Board,
exhibiting. Each year, the chamber Joe Scala from HEB, gave his final
holds a silent auction for the John remarks. Your very own, Michelle
Fox Chamber Herd to raise money Becker, was named Ambassador
for the chamber to buy and donate of the Quarter. Several days later,
the meat of one FFA animal per high the chamber announced finalists
school. Because fundraising begins for Business of the Year awards
in November, it is an appropriate to be held February 17th. Shots
time to auction wreaths donated for Holly was a finalist in the non-
by local businesses. This year, profit category. Good luck Michelle,
Michelle Becker watched over Nicole Travis, and the rest of the
the wreaths and saw them go for team!

Houston Area Council

HOUSTON, TX (January 25, 2018 ING 6-8 Dinner and Business The
) President Nicole Ricones intro- speaker will be Susan Repka “What
duced the board of 2018. The Guest to Before Serving on a Non-Profit
speaker was Melissa Rotholz, As- Board of Directors” RESERVATION
sociate Director of Shield Bearer DEADLINE: Friday, April 22, 2016
(WEWEN) had an incredible pre- by 10:00 a.m. or a late fee will ap-
sentation about Power Up! The End- ply. RESERVATION COST: $33 per
less Power of Building Others Up. person, prior to deadline; $38 after
the deadline. NON MEMBERS: $38
The audit of the 2017 year was per person, prior to deadline; $43 af-
presented by Dr. Melanie Brown. ter the deadline. REGISTRATION:
The budget for the 2018 year was www.abwahouston.org/events or
presented and agreed upon. The email [email protected]
next meeting is April 28th. BRING (by Liz Hale, HAC Delegate - Cake.
A FRIEND AND BRING A DOOR Fine Pastry)
PRIZE!!! 5:30-6:00 NETWORK-

CYFEN NEWS January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

CYFEN is proud and honored
to support students in the

area through our scholarship
program.

Congratulations to
Rebecca Harper!

CYFEN NEWS January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

Christmas Cookie Swap

CYPRESS, Texas (December 7, 2017) Our
Cookie Swap was our Holiday networking event
where each person brought delicious cookies
to taste and share! It was held at the Richard &
Meg Weekley Community Center. We even had
a few winners for Most Festive, Best Tasting, etc.
The evening was cold and ended with SNOW!
(by Rebecca Ward, Hospitality Chair – ReWarding
Images)

CYFEN NEWS January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

Nothing says Christmas like stealing gifts from your friends!

Our annual Holiday gift exchange was a huge success. Members and guests played the
gift stealing game, and had the oppurtunity to hear our own Liz Hale sing “ O Holy Night”.

CYFEN NEWS January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

CYFEN member Angela Altamuro brings smiles to
children and their familes at Texas Children’s Hospital
during the Christmas season during her monthly visith.
She was pleased to deliver goodies donated by CYFEN
members. If you would like to get involved, please reach
out to Angela.

Liz Hale and Pat Crosland and Addison Travis
participate in the Christmas Parade of Lights,
Cypress, Texas.

2018 Women’s Expo Committee

2018 Womens Expo Committee had at work planning the 10th
Annual Expo to be held on April 28th at Lone Star College.

CYFEN NEWS January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

New members inducted in January were Peggy Garner
and Dr. Abby Barnwell. Welcome to CYFEN!

Chaille Ralph was our speaker in January, “I’d Rather Die than
Speak in Front of a Crowd” was her topic.

January Business in the Spotlight (BITS) with Kathy Kirby, Wine
Shop at Home and Peggy Garner, Cypress Lifestyle Magazine

CYFEN NEWS January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

Thank you to the following member advertisers! For more information
about seeing your business card on e-blasts and quarterly
newsletters, contact the VP of Communications.

CYFEN NEWS January 2018 | Vol. 14, Issue 2

Changing
Women’s
Lives…

2017-2018 Executive Board Serving on the Board of
Directors or on a Committee
First Row: Patty Bergfield – Cruise Planners of Cypress – VP of Outreach; Kerrie may be just what the doctor
Saeger – Plexus Worldwide – VP of Programs; Dr. Michelle Becker – Shots for ordered to start you on your
Holly – President; Robin Haynes – Robin Haynes State Farm – VP of Membership;
Sonja Rucker-Hines – Amegy Bank – President-Elect. Second Row: Cathy Conrad – leadership journey! If you
Action Specialties, LLC – VP of Marketing/PR; Diana Saufley – Keller Williams – VP are ready and willing to
of Communications; Angela Altamuro – Fashion with Angela – VP of Finance; and
Kristin Severson – AireServ of Northwest Houston – Past President. serve your CYFEN sisters,
talk to any of us!
ABWA’s Proud Code of Conduct Patty Bergfield
Expo Chair
1. All members will serve as goodwill ambassadors for the American Business Women’s Debbie Berry,
Association. Stacey Isola
Mentor Chairs
2. Members will not allow their personal beliefs and convictions to interfere with the Rebecca Ward
representation of ABWA’s mission. Hospitality Chair

3. Members will always treat their member colleagues, guests, vendors and sponsors (A new slate of chairs will
with honesty, respect, fairness, integrity, responsibility, kindness, and in good faith. begin August 1)

4. Members will maintain compliance with ABWA National, Chapter and Express Dr. Michelle Becker
Network Bylaws. President

5. Members will not use their personal power to advance their personal interests. Cathy Conrad
Newsletter Editor
6. Members will strive for excellence in their professions by maintaining and enhancing Cy-Fair Express Network
their own business knowledge and skills, and by encouraging the professional
development of other members. P.O. Box 1473
Cypress, TX 77410

[email protected]

Cy-Fair Chapter of the
American Business

Women’s Association

Visit us online at:
www.cyfen.org