Newsletter

Officer Spotlight

Melony Ramsey

RamZs Emporium

In 1988, Ram-Z Exchange opened the doors on Elmwood Avenue. By 2007, we had outgrown that location so everything was moved, doubling the space. The name was changed to RamZs Emporium, “Where you’ll find things you didn’t know you needed but now you desperately want.”

New things arrive daily, some that you would never expect to see in Lafayette. At RamZs, you’ll find a large selection of jewelry, coins, antiques, collectibles, guitars, electronics and firearms. Some services we provide are repairing jewelry, custom designing jewelry, notary assistance and giving loans for anything from emergencies to vacations. Tip: If you are always honest and caring, your customers will return and tell others to visit also.

When we had our ribbon cutting ceremony and a month later, won the Small Business of the Month award, I realized that I was so out-of-the-loop! I didn’t know the people who attended either event. So when someone told me about an organization of women business owners, I visited a meeting. It was then that I realized how isolated I was, glued to the business and starving for a connection with other women in business. I quickly joined the Association of Business Women Owners (AWBO), and have been on the board since then.

I put AWBO in my schedule, make it a priority, and try not to miss a single meeting. Each one brings new information that I can use in everyday situations. If you haven’t been to AWBO, visit soon. I hope you will want to be a part of the only local organization meeting the needs of business owners.

Melony Ramsey

RamZs Emporium

205 Farabee Drive North

Lafayette, IN 47905

765-427-2963
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Member Testimony
By Kathie York, Kathie York Proofreading, LLC

In April, 2016, Ron and I rounded the last corner and made our way to the exit of the Business Expo. And there it was … the booth for the Association of Women Business Owners. Although many exhibitors were gone or had their packing boxes stacked and ready, there was Melony Ramsey and team: still talking with people and handing out info. Says a lot, doesn’t it?

Within 24 hours, I was an AWBO member.

Like many of you, I was a bit leery of AWBO at first. I’d been involved with several “women’s business groups” that weren’t about business. I was greatly encouraged when I discovered AWBO’s speaker roster is first-rate, our meetings are worth my time because I learn something each month, and the members are dedicated to the cause of furthering their own companies … and mine.

The relationship-building I find with AWBO is exactly what my business and budget need.

A note to the AWBO Board of Directors: I love your new idea of the business card “hat,” randomly matching us with another person to set up a one-to-one outside the main meeting. Priceless! Great ice breaker. Thanks for all your time on our behalf.

Kathie York, Chief Gaffe Eradicator

Kathie York Proofreading

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Next meeting is July 11th, 2017

A Note From Your President...

AWBO’s Summer Social was a wonderful event, thanks to Deb Plue, President Elect. Held at Moses Fowler House Mansion, our tour guide, Barbara Huddleston, gave the most detailed and fascinating story about the mansions history. You’ll want to go there sometime if you haven’t been there yet. Sovereign Caterers had a delicious array of delicate appetizers, also presented by Barbara Huddleston.

Deb talked about writing your story. This subject fascinated me because we have the most unusual things that arrive at our store and strange things that occur. When we moved from our former location, employees documented the things they never wanted to forget. It made me wish we had kept track of much more than those three pages of memories. When I hear about the books others have written, writing our own story pops into my mind again.

Have you ever thought about writing “your” story? Whether you just started your business or have been open for many years, why not record things and make a book of them. Preserve your memories in your business and your life. 

Attached please find the card Deb gave each of us at the social. Let it be a reminder and help to write down your memories.

Have a wonderful summer,

Empowering Women

Next meeting is July 11th, 2017
Crafting Your Message with Public Radio

I have been in the Greater Lafayette area for 20 years, staying in the area after attending Purdue University for Communications. For 15 years I worked at Insight Communications in Marketing and Community Relations, developing marketing plans for 10 Indiana cable markets including Purdue University and the Greater Lafayette area. I made a career move into the nonprofit sector for about 6 years as Division Director of March of Dimes for 12 central Indiana counties. Both of our children spent time in the local NICU and children & women’s health issues have always been a passion for me. Currently I am a Court Appointed Special Advocate in the Tippecanoe area working as an advocate with local children whose families are navigating the court systems.

I have been with WBAA in Corporate Support since November of 2016, although I have been an avid listener for many years! Our programming is designed to make a positive impact in the quality of life for the communities we serve. Our mission is to use the power of media to educate, entertain and inspire.

July's AWBO topic will highlight strategies and tips on how to craft your message in a way that will engage listeners and encourage them to support what you support; how to reach more customers in more places, create messages that resonate with a loyal audience; and finally, to reach an educated audience that's ready to buy.

Brenda Renaldo will also be explaining how public radio differs from commercial media as well as the advantages and disadvantages. If you’re looking for strategies to surround your brand with quality, you won’t want to miss this talk.

3 Minute Speakers

Officer Spotlight

Deb Plue

Shepherd Insurance Service

As I write I find myself pondering the famous Chinese proverb by Lao Tzu, "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”. To share the essence of whom and what I am today I must acknowledge my joyful journey began with my parents, who by their daily examples instilled in me the fundamentals of love, faith, optimism and service to others.

From this vantage point in my journey I look back at my early adult years as a young wife and mother, my years operating a family retail business, and as an active community volunteer, I can clearly see the recurring role of caregiver and nurturer emerge. In my younger days as a child of the 50’s I may have resisted and resented the label, but now I joyfully embrace it.

Today I am proud to be an insurance professional serving the needs of business owners. The essence of my profession is taking care of others. It is my honor to earn the trust of my clients as they look to me to protect their families and businesses. Together we explore their risk exposures and implement strategies to reduce and transfer the risk of financial loss to the appropriate insurance product. My reward is to see my clients enjoy their life journeys knowing we have planned for the unexpected twist and turns that life brings our way.

Deb Plue
Shepherd Insurance
405 Sagamore Parkway S. Ste B12
Lafayette IN 47905
Phone 765-807-0300
Mobile 765-427-1339
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What a joy it’s been to see everything turn green again, with spots of beautiful color here and there! Plants that started from seeds or bulbs were watered, sunshine joined in and roots finally started to grow. Stems appeared with leaves on the sides and a bud developed at the top. It wasn’t long before that bud turned into a beautiful blossom for all to enjoy its’ beauty and fragrance.

The life of that plant is like a business as it develops and matures. The Association of Women Business Owners has many amazing speakers with helpful information to develop, grow, maintain, spread, keep a business alive and more. There are also opportunities to learn from other members.

The SUMMER SOCIAL is the informal event of the year for women to spend time away from their workplace, meeting other women business owners and sharing ideas. It’s a time of refreshment, packed with fun. Please join us and invite other women business owners or those who might be considering starting their own someday. See details below and sign up for the Association of Women Business Owners Event here or on Facebook.

Melony Ramsey, President

Deb Plue, President Elect and Event Planner
Empowering Women

Next meeting is June 13th, 2017
AWBO Special Event
Tuesday, June 13th 5pm - 7:30pm
And you're invited!!

The summer social has always been one of my favorite AWBO events. Each one I attended was a marvel of creativity and an obvious labor of love.  Now as President Elect it falls to me and my committee to plan this year's summer social. I was a little intimidated at first as I don't usually think of myself as creative (I'm really kind of boring!) So I thought about the simple things I enjoy most that I could incorporate into the evening. Well, I like reading history and biographies.

Mostly I just love stories! Real stories inspire me, stories of pioneer challenges and struggles that provide a humbling perspective to the challenges we face today. Stories of overcoming unimaginable adversity to build communities, businesses and our nation. Stories that make my heart swell with pride and joy while a tear trickles from my eye. Stories of old houses and the families who thrived there. Stories of everyday people.

So what a better setting than the Fowler House Mansion?  We have a lovely evening planned in a beautiful historic setting perfect for sharing our own stories and enjoying the fellowship of AWBO members. Promptly at 6pm the executive director, Colby Bartlett, will provide a short presentation about the history of the Fowler House Mansion. His knowledge of the Fowler family history and his joy for sharing the house will impress.

Mark you calendars to attend, invite a guest, and plan for a special AWBO evening. Come share your story.

Deb Plue
AWBO President Elect
Empowering Women

Next meeting is May 9th, 2017

Art of the Follow-Up: Communicating Past the "No"

Join us as for a panel discussion that will help you close the sale and make the deal. AWBO members, Shelly Bays, Jenna Isch, Sarah Schwarz, and Kathy Selvey, will lead us through a discussion of best practices for a variety of business types and will help attendees define what a follow-up strategy is, identify a variety of follow-up systems, know when enough is enough, understand excuses and build referral relationships, and overcome objections. You won’t want to miss this!

Jenna Isch
Isch Insurance Services

I first joined AWBO in 2010, shortly after I started my Farmers Insurance agency. I was invited to visit by a friend of mine and past AWBO President, Julie Rubsam. In my first meeting the activity was “speed networking,” like a speed dating event. I was able to learn about five members rather quickly that day. I saw AWBO as a great opportunity to network, but also learn from other, more experienced, business owners. Through AWBO I have been able to meet women I would not know otherwise and make a lot of friends. I have taken the opportunity to learn from others and build my confidence in my business and professionally. Also, getting involved on the AWBO board has been the best way for me to commit consistently. I had to make that shameless board plug.

I own Isch Insurance Services, an insurance and financial services agency, affiliated with Farmers Insurance and Financial Services. I primarily help families and small businesses make good financial decisions for their future. I offer, auto, home, renters, recreational vehicle, life and business insurance; as well as investment products, such as IRAs, mutual funds, annuities and college savings plans. I have a unique approach of getting to know my clients and their concerns so I can make the right recommendations. I am different from your typical agency or company, because I don’t often put together “apples to apples” quotes or focus on being the cheapest option. I enjoy helping my clients understand what they are paying for and how their insurance and investments can work for them. I get to be part of their team. In my office, I also have two other fully licensed agents, Cheryl Lucas and Melissa Brandt, who help me offer amazing service before, during and after the sale.

I can be reached via phone and text at 765-838-2781 or via email at jisch@farmersagent.com. I am also available on Facebook, just look up “Jenna Isch” or twitter @jennaisch. In insurance, it is difficult to offer “specials.” But we do have unique discounts we can offer to clients who work in a profession, like teachers, police, firefighters, nurses, doctors, scientists and engineers just to name a few. I tell my clients, life insurance is always on sale today, because next year it will be more expensive if you wait.

I am a firm believer in learning from mistakes and I don’t make the same mistake twice. I also often say “Karma is my business plan.” Now I do have an actual business plan for those who are worried… I’m an insurance nerd, of course I plan… but I am also a strong believer in doing good always pays back and usually pays dividends.

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Member Testimony
By Tammy Foley, Coldwell Banker Shook

Ten years ago I was invited to an AWBO Ladies Night Out at Walts Other Pub. Our evening was fun, full of laughter and created friendships that I treasure today. What intrigued me the most was the friendships and enthusiasm to empower business owners to be better at our jobs, along with the willingness to share life lessons with others.

My Ah Ha moment came from a speaker from Kokomo who shared her courageous moment of life- “When Life gets Tough!” Her husband lost his job in the car industry and they had 7 kids to feed. She took a passion for Wedding Planning, wrote a book and is now coaching her passion around the country – What a Success and Inspiration that spoke to me that day, as the Recession in the Construction Industry had many challenges!

While the monthly topics sparked my interest, the interaction with other lady business owners inspired me to be better. I quickly joined the board of directors and was the Chairman of Membership. A few years later served as Vice President and then followed by serving as AWBO President for 2 years. While AWBO ladies embraced me, they taught me the ability to listen, provide leadership and allowed me to blossom when leadership was needed. I thank AWBO for the opportunity to serve. AWBO still inspires me today, with a life time of friendships created and heartfelt passion!

May AWBO Empower you in your daily life and many small Successes to follow!
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Recently there was a report on television and an article in the Journal and Courier about women business owners in Indiana. It also caught the attention of editors in Indianapolis and they printed the J & C article in the Indianapolis Star! Pretty important, huh?

The author of the article said that a census taken recently showed that 162,000 businesses were owned by women. That includes every AWBO member. That number astounded me because it meant just under 30% of Indiana’s privately owned companies were woman owned. Elaine Bedel, President of Indiana Economic Development Corporation, expressed there are many things available in our state to help women get a business started and keep it running. Some owners attested to that in the article, having received help to assist them.

I know every woman who owns her own business had to work very hard to get everything put together to start their business, and keep it running and many factors come in to that equation. On top of all the hours on the job are more hours of hard work running a household! Feeding babies, changing diapers, keeping laundry going, fixing meals, and being chauffeur to every activity your teenager has decided they want to be involved in! I APPLAUD YOU! I remember those days when it was just my husband and I at the business, creating a space for our daughter to play in and later to do homework beside my desk. Those were tough years! And now all three children are grown and work with us, managing different areas of the business. So keep up the good work, it’s worth it!

The Association of Women Business Owners (AWBO), has speakers from many different avenues and themes. If you want to learn more, come to MCL the second Tuesday of every month. Don’t miss an AWBO meeting because each one is action packed and educational.

I’m really looking forward to hearing Gary Higgins on Tuesday, April 11 because he was instrumental in getting our business on its feet many years ago, with the state of the art quality television commercials. He will show attenders how to create a promotional video for social media using our cell phones. Things have really changed in the past 27 years since we opened our business.

Invite a woman business owner, or someone thinking about starting one, to join us at MCL Restaurant & Bakery, West Lafayette, April 11 from 12-1p.m. See you there!

Best regards,
Melony Ramsey
AWBO President
Empowering Women

How to Create a Quality DIY Promotional Video

Gary John Higgins is the owner of Indiana Motion pictures where he also serves as a Director and Producer of television commercials, corporate promotional, training, and consumer documentary videos. A Purdue University graduate, Gary gained valuable experience in LA where he worked as a Steadicam operator for independent movie and music video projects. Gary is an award winning photojournalist and has extensive experience at a local CBS affiliate. Beyond his journalistic career, Gary has also appeared as an extra in the Nick Nolte film, Blue Chips, toured with American Idol playing keyboards, and survived a helicopter crash.

Gary John Higgins’ presentation will walk us through the basics of creating a promotional video for social media using our phones. He will include information on storyboarding, shooting video, and equipment selection. Gary will share tips and strategies that will make us all video making pros.

3 Minute Spotlights