This is a very exciting time for NAIFA Fresno.... is it a time to grow and proper. As our state Membership Services Coordinator Kay Nauta states, "strength in numbers." This a fact and can no longer be ignored. It is time that we all take an active role in the growth of our association and stop watching the game from the sideline. It's always more gratifying playing the field than sitting on the bench. Although let's not forget to watch the Colts beat the Bears! With that said, get involved, and make an impact. The first person that brings me a completed new member application at our February 8th luncheon will get fifty dollars cash.

   With the upcoming February luncheon that will feature a national speaker, Brian Lee, it is prime time to extend an invitation to your colleagues that are not members of NAIFA Fresno to join us. I met Mr. Lee at the NAIFA state convention in Newport Beach last year and found his message to be valuable to me, when as you know, I am a health advisor. As a sales representative, I have learned that not only providing valuable information to my brokers is very important, but equally as important is asking the many needed questions. In particular, ask for the sale. Does this sound familiar? As with our careers, ask a colleague if he/she would like to attend a luncheon. This can only be done effectively when you support whole-heartedly what you say.

   I would like to thank Terry Rommereim for being persistent in recruiting new members, but also let me thank Clay Blanton who has done a phenomenal job in starting up our Young Advisors group. Around the nation, Young Advisors has brought in "new blood" into associations creating a much needed membership that enables us to continue being a "force to reckon with" on a national and state level with the politicians. Already we are seeing the fruits of Clay's labor...new members. As your board, we would like to remind you that we encourage any suggestions, ideas, and concerns that you may have which in turn will enable us to provide you with the value that you seek at NAIFA Fresno. Remember, without you there is no NAIFA, and without NAIFA, there is no you.

Respectfully yours,

Genevieve Marie Hormel

2006-2007 NAIFA-Fresno President