Lura Frazey: Write to Sell: Thursday, January 21, 2009 6-9 pm SMILE Station

Lura Frazey will be the presenter who rings in the New Year on a positive note. Her discussion for the January 21st meeting will be Marketing Your Small Businesses.

Lura is an expert writer, speaker, and communications consultant who specializes in writing content that moves prospects through the sales cycle. After nearly 20 years of writing for and administering small businesses, she’s become known for her ability to adapt big-corporate marketing strategies to the needs and budgets of entrepreneurial companies.

Lura is also a compassionate coach and teacher with a gift for helping people clarify, problem solve, build on strengths, and achieve goals through effective communication.

Lura will share her expertise with with the AHB Audience : Write to Sell

Are people bored by your brochures? Indifferent to your networking efforts? Underwhelmed by your newsletter? 

You’re not alone. Most businesses fail to craft intriguing marketing messages. That’s why we’re so quick to mute commercials and delete sales e-newsletters. Yet studies show consumers are taking an active role in seeking out new products and services every day. What would happen to sales if your marketing efforts caused prospects to call you with questions?

Would it be worth an evening of your time to learn?
•    What marketing activities are most likely to increase sales
•    3 copywriter’s secrets that will improve your sales writing immediately
•    5 easy ways to increase the number of people who respond to your marketing efforts
•    How to create a manageable, affordable marketing plan for 2010

She is based in Portland, Oregon but serves clients across the nation. Learn more at LuraFrazey.com or call Lura directly at 503-486-5667.

Holiday Pot Luck in December: Thursday, December 17th from 6-9 pm SMILE Station

For December, AHB members will be ringing in the Holiday Season and savoring toothsome delights.

December 2009's 'dinner' will be a special POTLUCK featuring all time holiday favorites prepared by AHB Members: Desserts and Appetizers.

Bring a Dish to pass. Enjoy AHB's year-end gift: No door charge for either members or visitors!

Join us at the SMILE station for a special WRAP-UP of the past year, featuring Dave Monnie. 

Dave is an  active dad, avid snowboarder, skier, bicyclist, tech support for Ties of Love and partner in Monnie Management. 

He also wears the Vice Presidential Hat for AHB. During the December meeting Dave will moderate: "Lessons learned in 2009; Looking ahead to the New Year: Planning for Success.”

Register to attend our special holiday programming at the AHB Website: http://www.ahboregon.org. The last monthly meeting of the year will be held at the SMILE station, 8210 SE 13th Ave, in the Sellwood Neighborhood.

We'll be celebrating the last year's successes together and wish a wonderful New Year to all!

You don’t need to have a home business to attend AHB's Meetings. Happy Holidays!

Sally Rhys Published In Virgin Blue Voyeur Magazine December 2009!

AHB's own Sally Rhys, Ethics and Compliance professional appears this month in Virgin Blue's Voyeur magazine's Success Files.

Here's a taste of her expertise: How to Run an Ethical Business "Implementing a Successful Ethics Program". Click Virgin Blue Voyeur December 2009 Issue   Online version of the magazine, then go to Page 57.

Sally is a Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional with 25 years of experience in the private and public sectors. She served as Ethics and Compliance Director for a $1.5 million publicly traded company. She has diverse experience in Organization Development, Project Management and Change Management. She was also a partner in a management development consultancy and a national software trainer.

As an Ethics and Compliance coach, Sally lectures across the country sharing her 20 plus years of experience on Corporate Responsibility.

Learn more about Sally, her workshops, certifications and coaching programs :  Focus On Business Ethics. 

AHB is certain!  With Virgin Blue's high flying article, new 2010 Training Brochure and vision for corporate responsibility, Sally's expertise will benefit the world for many years to come!
 

Paul SwalKo: Thursday, November 19, 2009: How using outside resources can save a small business money

Paul Swalko presenter discusses cost-cutting ways to increase a home based business efficiency rate on

Paul Swalco: Thursday, November 19, 2009-6-9pm SMILE Station

At this month’s public meeting of the area-wide Association of Home Businesses, Thursday, November 19, 6-9 pm, in addition to the usual buffet supper, the interactive program will feature Paul Swalco speaking about “Help for the home-based business: Using outside resources so you can stay focused on making money.”

You don’t need to have a home business to attend this business association meeting! First-time visitors pay the members’ rate of $10 for the meal and evening.

RSVP’s requested for meal planning. For information and to reserve call Eric at 503/232-2326.

Taylor Ellwood: Why Do I Need Social Marketing For My Business: Thursday, October 15, 2009

Taylor Ellwood, Expert on Social Marketing in Portland presents on Thursday, October 15, 2009.

AHB Board Member at Large Mark Ripkey Running to fight Leukemia

Greetings fellow AHB members,

I have mentioned my efforts to support a great cause at a couple of meetings and wanted to get this email out as deadlines are fast approaching. Included is the website that makes it easy to donate as well as a place for me to blog about my progress. It has been a long and fulfilling effort.

As a reminder of what I am doing. I am raising funds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) as a participant in their Team In Training program and I'm asking you to help by making a donation to my fundraising campaign. All monies go to LLS which supports cancer research and supports victims and their families. All donations are also tas dediuctible.

Donate online quickly and securely plus learn more about my progress. You will receive a confirmation of your donation by email and I will be notified as soon as you make your donation.

http://www.running4tnt.org

Each donation helps accelerate finding a cure for leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. More than 823,000 Americans are battling these blood cancers. I am hoping that my participation in Team In Training will help bring them hope and support.

On behalf of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, thank you very much for your support. I greatly appreciate your generosity.

John Harris: Five things you need to know about Relating to your clients with Video

John Harris of Horsepower Productions Presents Thursday, September 17, 2009 from 6-9 PM at the SMILE Station

Thursday, September 17, 2009 AHB Meeting Features John Harris of Horsepower Productions

AHB features "Using video effectively in small business". At September's public meeting of the area-wide Association of Home Businesses, Thursday September 17, 6-9 pm.

The interactive program will feature John Harris of Horsepower Productions, speaking about and demonstrating "Five Things You Need to Know about Relating to Your Clients with Video."

John has produced more than 500 professional quality videos including lectures, fundraising videos, television commercials, and product training videos.

His clients include OHSU, Boys and Girls Club, Sears, Hewlett Packard, and Oregon State University as well as numerous small local businesses.

He has won 11 national awards including 3 Platinum Best of Show Awards. Horsepower Productions fundraising videos have helped local non-profit organizations raise over $200,000 since 2006.

His Horsepower Marketing Minute videos offer small businesses an innovative way to afford professional marketing videos and John especially enjoys helping smaller organizations make a big difference in their bottom-line by making professional video accessible to all.

Annual Members ONLY Picnic August 20, 2009

Jennifer Roos, Thursday July 16, 2009: Rearrange your Home office for Efficiency and Comfort

Susan Rich: Write Bites for Reluctant Writers: Thursday, June 18, 2009 @ 6-9 pm

Dinner and the companionship of small business owners with a wealth of insight and ideas to share. Members and guests experienced this and much more attending the June meeting of AHB!

After a light repast for the evening, folks dished up dessert, poured coffee and got ready to rid their writing inhibitions.

Susan Rich prepared the group to be 'not so' reluctant writers. Susan specializes in taking the clunky out of business and everyday writing. She's one writer who collects interesting sentences and teaches others to do the same. AHB members got a taste of her Write It Rich workshops during their monthly dinner meeting.

Immediately Susan had the audience at her fingertips with hints on picking key messages, organizing  thoughts and writing compelling copy to draw clients in!

Susan's easy style and practical advice got the writing wheels turning for the group. Obviously her audience found the beauty (and quick tips) of merit. Susan spent much of the post-presentation time visiting and sharing additional ideas with members and guests.



Everyone is invited to join our July 16, 2009 AHB Meeting. Presenter Jennifer Roos will discuss creating a beautiful and efficient work space during our monthly third Thursday meeting.  Reservations are recommended and can be made by visiting the AHB website or phoning Eric at 503. 232.2326. Be sure to let Eric know if you will be bringing a guest or of any special dietary needs for your dining pleasure.

We look forward to seeing you at the SMILE station on Thursday, July 16, 2009

Susan Rich of Rich Writing: Thursday, June 18, 2009, 6-9 pm

How home businesspeople can write compelling ad copy for themselves

The area-wide Association of Home Businesses, the business association for those who work at home, presents at its monthly meeting in Sellwood this month Susan Rich of “RichWriting”, a local  home-based business itself. Susan reveals the simple checklist that can help anyone develop compelling ad copy. 

The meeting, Thursday evening, June 18th, 6-9 pm at SMILE Station, includes a buffet supper and costs $10 at the door. RSVPs requested for meal planning – call Eric at 503 / 232-2326, or visit online: www.ahboregon.org. SMILE Station is located on the southeast corner of 13^thand S.E. Tenino, a block south of Tacoma Street, in Sellwood. 

AHB announces it will have an information table at the Moreland Farmers Market – the second Wednesday of the month, 3:30-7:30 pm, on the parking lot of Wilhelm’s Portland Memorial, S.E. Bybee at 14^th.

Thursday, May 21, 2009 Neal Lubow: How Small Businesses Have Adapted to the Economy

Folks gathered excitedly to attend the evening's presentation by co-founder Neal Lubow. As owner of Ideas by the Hour he has plenty to share with other business owners.

Neal offered a plethora of insights and tips on tackling a bull market while members spoke about their individual efforts for staying afloat.

Along with interactive comments from his audience, the presenter regaled the group with his local" claim to fame": Neal had single-handedly tackled an entire Portland phone book. Did he use a princess phone? We're not sure. But....


Neal's phone skills paid off. He was marketing his design services to every INDIVIDUAL business entry in the phone book. An example of his tenacity 4 years later? A full book of business and lessons in trial and error. This is a man who has first hand knowledge about what works and what doesn't.

Throughout the interactive program, members and guests shared their experiences and methods for dealing with the past years challenges. Many felt secure having developed solid business practices. Others found by building on previous success they were able to develop second or third avenues of funding their efforts.




The atmosphere throughout the meeting was upbeat. Many seemed to feel that economic challenges helped them work toward finding more creative ways to conduct and grow their business.

Secretary and Photographer John McAnulty is cataloging members for upcoming name badges for members. After Neal's presentation, we were able to snap a photo of the man behind the lens (and the pen). John's skill's are many including the
Santori Mens Choir, serving on the Board for several local concerns (including AHB). An avid nature photographer, Johns camera skills benefit those who are exploring photography in later life; his Creative Photography classes are well attended and include trips to noted Oregon landmarks.

Next months AHB meeting will feature owner of RichWriting, Susan Rich. Susan teaches writing techniques to reluctant writers. She will be discussing ways for small businesses to write compelling copy at the Thursday, June 18th, 2009 AHB meeting.


Arranging to attend our Third Thursday monthly meeting is easy. Early registration is suggested for menu planning purposes and pre-registration is available at the AHB . Or via Princess Phone by calling Eric at 503.232.2326.

AHB's monthly meetings are dynamic, interactive and toothsome. We would enjoy having you join us the third Thursday of the month from 6-9 pm at the SMILE Station, 8210 SE 13th Ave ( 1 block South of Tacoma).

Please join us next month for a wonderful meal, great company and our presenter Susan Rich. We will meet June 18, 2009 from 6-9 PM. Looking forward to meeting you soon.

Building a Website: Travis Keenan Tiffin April 16, 2009-6 to 9 pm

Guests and members of AHB gathered at the SMILE Station in Sellwood with much fanfare. The evening began with networking, informal introductions among the crowd and preparation of the food buffet.

The evening's meal offered toothsome delight for our Lebanese guests as well as Middle Eastern fare education for those unfamiliar with the savory cuisine. Selections of Beef and Lamb Shwarma, tempting Falafel, hot from the oven homemade pita, Tabouleh, garlicy humus and an assortment of tempting sauces (Toomeh, Tahini and Taziki) filled dinners eyes and plates with delight. The evening's menu design and execution was by AHB resident 'occasional chef' Zoe Johnson. Rounding out the groaning buffet guests helped themselves to honey and rose splashed Baklava (Zoe and Mark Ripkey prepared the sweet treat) perfect for ending a delightful meal.

Following the meal as guests tucked into dessert, an update was provided on the AHB Booth at the Sellwood Moreland Farmers Market . Our first Booth at the Farmer's Market will be May 13th from 3:30-7:30 pm. With the evening's business wrapped up, formal introductions were conducted around the room with elevator speeches highlighting the months accomplishments.

Satiated by the meal and greetings, Travis Keenan Tiffin opened the educational component of the meeting. His presentation: Building a Website: Ways to Get It Done and Save Some Dough! offered multiple tips (click the link for the complete program content Travis presented) on creating a site diagram, realistic search engine optimization and content managment systems.

During his presentation, Travis offered WordPress as an example of blogging software to expedite Website initial design on a shoestring. Offering insight from the point of view of a graphic designer, he gave an overview of re-skinning a blog interface as a customization tool. Many of his tips were helpful from the aspect of home business owners seeking a professional looking do-it-yourself web presence.

Judging from the conversations and connections made as the SMILE station was tidied up for the evening, the meeting was an informative success. Education along with warm fellowship are what make AHB THE place for Home Business owners to stretch their social and collaborative muscle. Insight and offerings of advice add to the mix at AHB's monthly meetings.

Timely content and wisdom are evidenced in the planning of guest speakers at AHB. May's presentation will feature Neal Lubow :"How are “Home Businesspeople” dealing with this recession?" Neal will be faciliating a panel discussion. AHB meetings include a buffet supper. Cost: $10 at the door. RSVPs requested for meal planning which can be made via phone or through the contact us page at the AHB website.
Visit us on Thursday evening, May 21st, 6-9 pm at SMILE Station to meet other Home Business owners and participate in a lively panel discussion.

Pro Active Time Management- Your Key To Working Less And Making More!- Bob Gallo: TreatThemRight- March 19, 2009, 6-9 pm SMILE Station

Winter's chill didn't dampen the spirits of those gathered for the March 19, 2009 General Meeting of the AHB. Held monthly (third Thursday's 6-9 pm) at the SMILE Station in Sellwood, the dinner meetings are always well attended.

The March Meeting including dinner and a presentation by Bob Gallo was eagerly anticipated by all. Jessica Kindrick provided an Italian Feast of savory Italian Lasagna, with selections for both Ominvores and Vegetarians.







A light antipasti salad, fresh green salad and plenty of beverages rounded out the repast. Pears poached in Balsamic Vinegar with a Florentine cookie tempted the sweet tooth as a dining finale. Accolades all around for Jessica's tempting Lasagna!




As diners savored their desserts general business was conducted. A new activity for AHB will be a monthly booth at the Sellwood Moreland Farmers market. Staffing the AHB booth members will educate marketers about the history, mission and goals of the AHB. Local market attendees will learn about AHB offerings to home business owners in Portland.

Dates the AHB booth and members will be available at the Sellwood Moreland Farmers Market (corner of 14/Bybee) are:

• May 13, 2009 (3:30-7:30 PM)
• June 10, 2009 (3:30-7:30 PM)
• July 8, 2009 (3:30- 7:30 PM)
• August 12, 2009 (3:30-7:30 PM)
• September 9, 2009 (3:30-7:30 PM)

Introductions followed the order of business as members and guests gave a short elevator speech, highlighting their expertise. Then, all eyes turned to the presenter Bob Gallo.

As a relationship builder, Bob offers TreatThemRight, a client retention system. His broad reaching resume includes estate planning, owner of a book-keeping firm, Sales Management and for exercise and enjoyment, Dance Instruction. Choreographing daily tasks while keeping on track with clients and his growing business is one of his many talents.

The topic: "Pro-Active Time Managment: Your Key To Working Less And Making More!" reflected key components home business owners can exercise to work smarter. Simply incorporating Proactive as opposed to Reactive planning can allow a home business owner to develop strong, current BEST Practices.

The question and answer segment was filled with conversation: discussion flowed on implementing the three strategies Bob had outlined during his presentation. Several members shared their tactics for tackling time management, efficiency and priortizing tasks.

A bit of networking, interacting with the key speaker and straightening the SMILE station provided mingling opportunities.


April's AHB General meeting is scheduled for Thursday April 16th, 2009 from 6-9 pm. Artist,Graphic & Web Designer Travis Keenan Tiffin will offer web page insights to save time, money and headaches.





AHB Meetings and topics are selected to give Home business owners usable tools for success. More information on meeting dates and times, the history and mission of the AHB and reservation information details can be found at at the AHB website.

We look forward to meeting you soon.

10 Things Every Small Business Owner Should Know About Computers- Kelly Kindrick of Sunset Computers: Thursday, February 19th, 2009 6-9 pm

A large crowd of guests and members gathered at the SMILE station in Sellwood, to share dinner and learn more about solid computer practices from the evening's guest speaker, Kelly Kindrick.

The evening's menu delivered hot and steaming from Shanghai Noble House on Macadam brought hungry guests to the buffet table. Partaking of Wonton Soup, succulent Kung Pao Chicken, Tofu Saute and tastily prepared veggies, guests helped themselves to the meal. During dinner folks settled around tables to savor food and conversation.







After the Pineapple Upside Down cake was cut and passed diners were introduced and shared elevator speeches.









Each in attendance shared current doings within their business and greeted 6 additional guests who had arrived in anticipation of the evening's presentation by Kelly Kindrick.





Kelly is the owner of Sunset Computer in Beaverton, which offers on-site and off-site computer repair, upgrades and maintenance. Those who gathered for the evening's presentation benefited from his expertise and advice: 10 Tips To Keep A Computer Running At Peak Performance.

Starting with Basic computer terminology Kelly spoke about computer anatomy, helpful ways to maintain optimum computer circulation and efficiency. Kelly provided an interactive question and answer session with guests, addressing system 'helpers' built into most computer systems. Kelly accompanied his talk with a power point presentation:walking computer users through task manager, minor diagnostic tools and data back up.




Sage advice from Kelly included circumventing data loss, available on-line programs ( such as open office, google documents and other platforms) and new 'green technology' being developed for the future.


Kelly's expertise was timely and effective as evidenced by the queue of guests who joined him for additional ideas as the meeting wrapped up.



February's general meeting hosted a wonderful meal and lively conversation. Dinner was wrapped up and the housekeeping tasks afforded time to mingle as the meeting drew to a close.

Portland's current small business owners or those dabbling with the idea of growing their own business can benefit from the experience of AHB members. Those working from home will find a wealth of information and are invited to attend AHB's monthly meetings.

Each session offers networking opportunities, an educational component and the ability to connect with other "SOHO"'s who work from home. AHB meetings offer a rich tapestry of expertise to those who nurture a home business. Meetings are
held the Third Thursday of the Month at the SMILE Station, (8210 SE 13th Ave, Portland, Oregon 97202) from 6-9 pm.

The March 19, 2009 general meeting features Bob Gallo of Treat Them Right. Bob's ability to finesse a Ballroom step or two, manage a consulting business and maintain client management tools give him an edge. He'll offer small business owners tips on Pro-Active Time Management.




Curious? You're invited to visit the AHB website to learn more about AHB's history, mission, meet our members or even register to attend an upcoming meeting. RSVP's are requested to help in planning for dinner service. Attending a monthly meeting can be arranged by contacting the AHB either via phone or email.

Rescheduled: Dave and Silke Monnie: Thursday, January 15, 2009. 6:00-8:30 pm

December's AHB meeting was cancelled (as was much else during the holiday's) due to the winter wonderland which shut down Portland for year's end 2008.

The rescheduled meeting was held at the SMILE station. At six o'clock members began to trickle in, helping to set up the room for the round table discussion. Tables were readied for the evenings dinner and business portion. During this time, guests & members arrived, spent time reacquainting and catching up on holiday news.

Meanwhile, Lynn Miller and guest Mark Ripkey rolled up their sleeves and got a quick lesson in wrapping spring rolls from Zoe Johnson. The menu and food were prepared by Zoe who wo-manned the wok and provided direction to Kathryn who offered to give last minute assistance : As courses were completed and dipping cups filled she arranged them in the dining area. By 6:30 the table was laid and dinner was served.


The repast was light to make way for Eric Norberg's favorite mid-January dessert (it was the best he enjoyed all day). Fresh springrolls with dipping sauces, Mandarin Orange Basted Chicken or Szechwan Style eggplant were accompanied by asian style soft noodle. Braised Baby Bok Choy & savory greens were napped with a light sesame coating to complete the NEW YEAR repast. Ice tea and hot beverages rounded out the meal.

Rosewater infused Rice pudding with Raisin, cardamon and cinnamon; the largest bowl ever seen or consumed at the SMILE station tempted diners sweet tooth. Settling in with pudding, smiles and a bright look for the new year, members and guests alike turned all ears to the esteemed president of AHB, Eric Norberg.
Prior to Eric announcing nominations for the Board of Directors, members and guests provided short elevator speeches, describing themselves and their Home Business.


The mood was giddy much as it would be five days later. Having officiated introductions, Eric moved on to the Board elections. The current Board of Directors were unanimously re-elected to their posts for 2009.

• Eric Norberg- President
• Dave Monnie- Vice President
• Ron Miller- Tresurer
• John McAnulty- Secretary
• Board Members at Large: Bob Gallo, Zoe Johnson, Lynn Miller and Deb Minkler

Members and guests learned that the Board had finalized several decisions for the current meeting and the upcoming year.

• A monthly drawing from the pool of attendees, good for one free meal at an upcoming AHB meeting. Clarice Kruchwitz won the first drawing.
  

• 2009 season of the Sellwood Moreland Farmers Market, AHB will set up a booth as an informational service to the community. The booth will staffed by rotation of AHB members. More to follow including a sign up sheet for the weekly Farmers Market. (Wednesdays: 3:30-7:30 pm). Details to follow including start up date.

• A membership committee may be established. Discussion ongoing re: formation, purpose and direction.

• A LinkedIn Group has been formed as a layer of membership benefits to the AHB. Members may establish a LinkedIn profile, join the group and participate in ongoing discussions related to the AHB. Contact Zoe for more information. She'lll email you an invitation to join the AHB member group on LinkedIn.

The evening's moderators Dave and Silke Monnie initiated a casual round robin discussion. Members were encouraged to talk about the impact the media defined economic crisis is having on their business. What adaptations are Home Business owners making to adjust to the current market? What plans are they making for 2009 or beyond?

• Dave noted that small business owners were being impacted both postively and negatively. DIY, auto repair, shoe repair and the like have seen increased traffic. Some businesses were adapting by offering smaller plates or value added menu items: upscale dining establishments are feeling the pinch and adjusting.

• Silke Monnie: (property management) Her business has been impacted on mostly a positive level with increased properties available as owners relocate for work elsewhere or time a unit is empty may increase. Some people are moving to reduce costs or seeking shared-housing options. Owners are holding money closer and not as responsive to repair needs.
  

• Jesssica Kindrick: (real estate) New rules are impacting her work daily. She has gotten better at negotiations.

• Kelly Kindrick: (computers) Doing Sales and Repairs. He is positioned at both ends of the market.

• Guest: Emily Maletz: (graphics) things have slowed down. Small jobs are not coming as often. She is working on grant funding opportunities

• John McAnulty: (photography) Purchases of Stock Images are down with his contract company. The adjustments being made are more on a personal level than in his business.

• Sally Rhys: (ethics coaching) Noted that Fraud goes up in tight economic times. Her work has increased and improved.

• Bob Gallo: (sendoutcards) Relationship building has increased. This has impacted his business in a positive way.

• Guest: Mark Ripkey: (send out cards) His relationship marketing firm has seen business increase by 70% in the past 2 years. He continues to be diversified with his business concerns.
  

• Kathryn Leech: (landscape design) Encouraged by the movement toward staying around home: Stay-cations. Positive about changes in economic times. Sees it as an opportunity for folks to readjust, rethink and act more as community. she remains focused on Sustainability, Planting food crops as part of landscape design and is offering Do-It-Yourself seminars. Her business keeps 'growing".

• Clarice Kruchwitz: (Shaklee) Her products have a dedicated following and lots of customer loyalty.

• Shari Bandes: (Mediation) Her practice is balanced out on both ends of the spectrum.

• Lynn Miller: (physician's assistant ) Practice has growing pains even now. Her employer is very Service oriented and it makes her feel positively about his practice and the direction the year will take with his practice.

• Eric Norberg: Has three businesses. Each one has its plus and minuses. The newspaper business is strong and it is important to remain focused on strong customer service.

As the meeting wrapped up the feeling of the group remained optimistic and forward thinking. Members and guests visited while straightening up for the close of business. The group is excited to move into the next level of supporting Home Business owners and invites those who are interested to our next dinner meeting on Thursday, February 19th, 2009. The meeting will be held at the SMILE Station in Sellwood from 6:30-8:30.

Kelly Kindrick of Sunset Computers will be giving a talk and demonstration. Sign up to attend and learn from Kelly as he demos: "The Ten Things Every Small Business Owner Should Know About Their Computer".

RSVP at the AHB website to attend our meeting in February. View the site for more information on the AHB, member links, maps and phone contacts. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Sally Rhys: Business Ethics Build Business: Thursday, November 20, 2008 Membership Meeting

Outside the evening was chilled and raining but members welcomed guests and one another warmly. The camaraderie and delicious scent of the pending dinner was a warm counterpoint to the weather with out.

Members and guests gathered around the groaning table to sample Savory bits of Italian home style cooking. The evening's menu was prepared by our resident chef, Zoe Johnson. Fresh crudite of radish & cucumber and a leafy green salad accompanied by homemade summer blackberry vinaigrette started out the meal. Piping hot Polenta offerings for both carnivore and vegetarian piqued the tastebuds: a waft of sun dried tomato accompanied the garden bite of fresh basil in both offerings. Smoked prosciuto or without as one chose, accompanied by a tomato burgundy sauce. Crisp nibbles of parmesan toasted to crackers alongside roasted carrot and harcort verte rounded out the main meal. Afterward, guests brought steaming mugs of something warm to compliment a Fresh apple with Blackberry tart on sweet pastry. The presenter had a rapt audience, satiated and ready to enjoy her fine program.




Sally is a member of AHB (as well as the chapter Librarian). Sally worked in private and public sector HR for over 20 years, ending her corporate career as Director, Ethics and Compliance at Portland General Electric. She's a member of the Society for Human Resource Management, Open Compliance and Ethics Group, and Society for Corporate Compliance and Ethics.


Sally offered members a variety of questions to start the conversation. With her background in Ethics Ms Rhys led the group into the questions surrounding the modern view. Does morality play a role in the definition of ethics? Are ethics a rule as opposed to a code of conduct? During the meeting, members delved into the significance these questions posed.

Simply stated, the owner of Coaching for Perspective offered the tried and true words of wisdom. Do unto others. A viable business that adheres to a strong code of ethics is perceived as honorable and truthful with their client base. As well incorporating that code into a mission statement provide clients with a firm grasp of the business's intention.

In order to help members build their own code of ethics, Sally provided a hand out including a 'values list'. Sally guided members though the steps of writing a simple code of ethics which could also be built into a businesses mission statement.

The discussion was timely and pertinent. Members acknowledged continuity in ethical practices were important in establishing and building relationships in business and the community at large.

The meeting was well attended by 12 members and three guests. Sally answered questions afterward with one and all pitching in while wrapping up the meeting.

The December meeting of the AHB is scheduled at the SMILE station. Every third Thursday of the month there are lively current topics of interest to business owners during the dinner meetings.

Feel free to join our group to share, learn and connect on December 18th, 2008 as we wrap up the years events with co-presenters, Dave and Silke Monnie. Elections for the Board, an overview of the year and a new outlook will be covered during the holiday season meeting.




Reservations are requested and can be arranged via the AHB home page. Click on the Contact Us Link to RSVP for upcoming meetings.