Dear Friends,

On July 15, 2005, BPW will be celebrating its 86th Birthday! And this August 20th marks the 85th anniversary of the passing of the 19th Amendment granting Women the right to vote! BPW was there in 1920 and is here today, leading the way for women and their families around the world. This issue of The Advocate reflects BPW's rich legacy, strong history and our power to connect, today, in the 21st century.

 

So, why am I a member of BPW? Eight years ago I started by own business and I needed to network. I attend the BPW Annual Gala, along with several hundred L.I. women. It was such a phenomenal networking event I joined the Brookhaven Chapter, where, over time, I became its President. There I realized the powerful legacy of this organization and its rich history in advocacy. I have always enjoyed politics - at age 19, was already volunteering within a political party. It was BPW that gave me the opportunity to publicly speak at open forums regarding women and family issues and gave me the support to run for public office. I didn't become a State Senator, but I gained insight and knowledge about campaigning, government and the need to put more women into government positions. Today, I continue to lobby and attend policy and action conferences and hold Womenomic events.

Needing to develop my business, I became more involved with BPW's other chapters, Deer Park and Bay Shore, focusing on public relations. Today, I am the President of the Huntington charter and the Assistant District Director of Long Island (District X). The Huntington charter is one of the fastest growing charters in New York State with a very exciting, active and diverse membership.

Being part of ocal, national and international organization helps women acheive economic selfsufficiency by advancing careers, building businesses and advocation for workplace equity. Celebrate with us, read about us and become involved with us. The journey starts here; together we will continue to lead the way in women helping women and their families.

Linda Minardi
President, BPW/Huntington