As I look through my calendar, I realize that the year is more than half over.  If you are like me, that means that there are things I thought I'd have accomplished by now, but haven't and things I am reminded to do before the year is out!  This year many of those things revolve around Portlandia.  For those of you who don't know, I came to be president by default.  The rightful successor had to resign the club due to health issues.  I didn't exactly volunteer and I wasn't exactly forced into the job, either.  However, it has been one of the most enjoyable experiences I've ever had.
 
I didn't have the opportunity to work my way into this role, so have had to call on all of my accumulated experience and talents, as well as those around me!  One of them is knowing which people to put in which seat on the bus. By that I mean running any group or organization takes teamwork.  I was extremely lucky having inherited board members and committee chairs who knew what they were doing and to have added a few more.  As president, my job has been relatively painless and filled with fun because, I believe, the right people are on the bus.
 
I am bringing this up for two reasons.  It is my wish as your president, to leave my office in January, with a complete and capable board.  It is also my intention to have committee chairs in place, who are really excited to participate in this way.  Secondly, I want to assure all of who might be considering a role, the commitment is small and the fun is huge!  It can stretch you in ways you never dreamed possible. I can also tell you that "acquaintances" will become friendships, of the long lasting variety. 
 
Portlandia is much more than a place to have lunch once a month.  It is really the heartbeat and energy force of powerful women coming together.  It takes all of us to make special things happen.  Please consider combining your talents with others, to make 2009 our best year ever!
 
 
Sincerely,

Judi Jones