From the Editor's Desk

By Sharon Ward
Director of Communications
  

First, let me thank everyone for their patience with this issue.  Some of you know I had computer problems recently, but it’s smooth sailing now.

Lots of good news from all parts this month.  New members are springing up like crocuses on the lawn.  Spring is a time of renewal and isn’t it just around the corner? Good advice this time around also.  The women at CPC Calgary City Centre have developed a solid approach to recruiting and retaining members.  Don’t miss Karen Cooke's article on how they do it!

And aren't they hopping in Moncton (both clubs)!  Thank you for sharing your good times with us.

The year is closing in on us fast, as Past National President CJ points out, and it is time for others to step up to the plate.  When I was nominated for a National Board position a year and a half ago, I was flattered.  And anxious.  How much time would it take?  Could I do a good job?  A year and a half later, I find myself knee-deep, but not over my head—daunted at the task of compiling and laying out each newsletter, but so satisfied when it’s done—warmed by newfound friends on the board and through email connections—stretched by new tasks, new ideas and new knowledge.  It has been a very rewarding experience, and I go into the last half of my tenure far less tentative and far more optimistic.

That goes for positions at club level also.  Why are you a Progress member?  If you want to sit back and watch others perform, go to a sports arena or a movie.  Put your name forward.  Stretch.  Grow.

This is a club filled with friends who won’t let you fall, who will help you through uncharted waters, who will delight in your development.

Progress Club is a very special opportunity which we are lucky to experience.  Experience it as fully as you can.  It is a privilege.

Have you booked Convention yet?  Edmonton is only six months away.  If you are planning to go, register now rather than later.  It sure makes it easier for the planners to have your registration (and your money) early.

MCS.  Well, my club (Halifax Cornwallis) finally registered our roster, so, guilt free, now I can urge those of you who haven't, to Just Do It!  The club has spent a great deal of time and money on a program to connect us easily—no mean feat for a bunch of volunteers spread over 4.5 time zones.  And at the rate people and companies change email addresses, we have to be able to update quickly.  It is incumbent on every member to complete and maintain his or her own profile in MCS.  In simple terms, this is a giant internal address book available only to those with a personal password.  In reality, it is a complicated and highly effective database for club use.  But we need your input.

You know, the neatest thing about being the editor of The Progression is that I get to rant and ramble on in this column.  If you have something to say, a rant or a ramble of your own, please write to me and indicate that your message is a "letter to the editor". I welcome your comments and appreciate constructive criticism.

Yours for Progress,
Sharon Ward