From The President’s Desk

On a personal note, I would like to offer a special thank you to everyone who sent their kind wishes and checked in on me last month while I recuperated from shoulder surgery. Your words of encouragement certainly helped. I plan to be able to “high five” again soon. It may actually take a few more months, but know that I’m determined.

I am grateful to my board and staff for keeping VIA’s plan of action moving forward in my absence. There’s a lot going on with VIA. We’re gearing up for a third quarter VIA Rocks! event, and doing a call to action for the 2011 Business-to-Business Industry Show committee. Next year’s show is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, May 12, 2011.

VIA has also began its outreach for the 2011 Board of Directors election. In preparation for the election, we will convene in August, develop nominations by September, and members will vote in October.

The VIA Foundation is currently reviewing curriculum and working on plans for the 2010 Connecting to Success events. We anticipate training approximately 2,800 high school juniors from all seven area high schools this year. VIA STAR kicks off this fall, with the contest taking place during early Spring 2011.

A special fundraiser is planned for the VIA Foundation’s education programs. Save the date: Saturday, October 30, at Valencia Lanes benefitting the VIA Foundation.

In addition, we’re planning our August through December business luncheon programs with the help of our new Program Chair, Alan DiFatta. VIA is also building new business education programs and events.

If you would like more information on any of the programs and committees, I encourage you to contact me personally at (661) 294-8088 or kathy@via.org.