Good Morning Everyone!

Most of you were notified last week of the untimely passing of Novice Member, Julie Lulich Gereats, 33, of Elmwood (Spun Sugar Designs). She had been under treatment for ovarian cancer but was doing well and planning to attend our retreat next month along with her mother, Robyn. Unfortunately, she had a pulmonary embolism on March 1 and passed away. She leaves behind her husband Tony and stepdaughter, Amber, of Elmwood and her parents, Robyn and David, of Mason. I am including some information below if anyone is interested. Many of you may remember Julie and Robyn from the retreat last year.

Cards may be sent to:
      Tony and Amber Gereats  N5277 Co Rd CC,  Elmwood, WI 54740
      Robyn and David Lulich    66390 Colby Road Mason, WI 54856
Online Condolences through:   www.MountainFuneralHomes.com

Memorials to:
 Ovarian Cancer Research Fund  14 Pennsylvania Plaza Suite 1400  NY, NY 10122
 St Agnes Educational Fund - Our Lady of the Lake Church
     201 East Lake Shore Drive    Ashland, WI 54806

On a lighter note, I spoke with Frank Andonoplas last Friday following his "over-the-top" presentation to the ABC-IL state meeting at the Drake Hotel in Chicago last week. You MUST visit his blog at: www.FrankEventDesign.com and read the description of the fantastic tables and presentation THEN you MUST visit www.www.garbolabs.com, enter event code "abc" (lower case) and take a look at his work. This is just a glimpse of what you will see at our upcoming retreat. Also, PLEASE reconsider if you aren't already signed up. This retreat is far beyond what we have done in the past. Bill Reed has worked hard to find a great venue for us and there are excellent presenters this year with many years of expertise on a wide variety of topics.

Also, along that note.....April 3rd is coming soon, which is the date that I need your checks...hint, hint! We REALLY need to firm up the details, finalize numbers and make plans. I know it is difficult to commit money at this time but PLEASE try to help me here as it is tough to make any confirmations without firm numbers.
Also, if you plan to stay at the hotel, be sure to make those reservations soon as the block will be released early. The resort is very popular at this time of year and you'll need a place to stay.

Think Spring, Everyone! I look forward to seeing you at the retreat!

Mary