Greetings From Our Chapter President

Dear Mothers:

Welcome?Back!? I look forward to seeing all of you at our first meeting of the 2007-2008 program year this Wednesday, September 12, 2007.? We will meet at 6:30pm at the Adamsville Recreation Center for a fresh start to a great year.? A special thank you to those of you who attended our retreat on August 25, the theme of which was Empowering Strong Mothers - Its All about Us.? We had over 90 moms to attend, and it was truly a powerful day of learning, nurturing and bonding.

The retreat gave me an opportunity to present a token to thank our 2005-2007 officers for their hard work and dedication for the last twenty-four months.? Our officers have the responsibility to carrying out their individual duties, but they also meet monthly to help oversee the smooth running of the chapter.? Thank you to Rhonda Johnson for coordinating the officer gifts.?

Additionally, this year I felt very strongly about 9 mothers who went "above and beyond" the call of their duties, and truly invested a great deal of time and talents for the good of the chapter.? While this statement could easily be made about another 15 moms in the chapter, I wanted to distinguish those moms who took leadership roles, who agreed to carry the charge forth.? Many of these mothers had no experience in the job area, but they had a willing spirit and a willingness to learn.? These special moms earned a newly created "President's Leadership Award."? These gifts were from me directly, and were especially designed by Yvonne Mayes-Moales, tenured mom and current associate member.? The white silk cord contains 50 elongated pearls, and is capped off with two charms at the end - a pink stone and a blue amethyst.? The exclusive lariats can be worn in several different styles, and are meant to remind the wearers that we appreciate their efforts, most especially their leadership.? Stay tuned to hear who this year's winners were!

As I thought about our theme for the next two years, I feel good about what we've accomplished in the area of community service at the Achor Center.? Our programming - children's and teen activities are active at Achor, our moms are more comfortable visiting, and our reading program is extremely important to the long term success of the kids.? This year, I'd hope we can focus on Leadership - developing our mothers, developeing our youth, and developing our teens.? Remember, it all starts with you!? If you have a great idea, let's hear it.? We heard some great ones at the retreat, and we're ready to begin implementing.?

Let's go out and lead!

Ready to serve -?

Thank you

Marjorie Mitchell