
	The Willamette Galley A Bi-Monthly Newsletter Volume 4, Issue 3, July 2001

President's Message

By Patti Loverink

When my husband and I were considering a move to Portland seven years ago, I wrote letters to several Willamette Valley STC members, asking about the local writing community. I received several warm and welcoming responses, resulting in an easier transition from a small STC chapter, which I co-founded in Vermont, to the Willamette Valley's 450-member chapter.

Our area attracts newcomers--people love the Willamette Valley area and want to live here. One of my goals this coming season is keep that door open for newcomers. At least two hosts at each dinner meeting will help make that "first meeting" for visitors more welcoming. These hosts will assist with:

Making connections for people who want to volunteer
Finding out about opportunities in the local job market
Meeting a potential employee or contractor
Or simply finding a place to sit at the meeting!

We're continuing with our chapter's commitment to providing interesting and innovative program meetings that will help us with our personal and professional growth. Incoming 1st Vice President Kymm Nelsen has plans for sprinkling some soft-skills training in this season, like "Excelling at Public Speaking" and "Effectively Managing Your Time."

Of course, we'll also continue to have fun! We welcome volunteers and can always find a place for someone who's interested in getting involved in the chapter.

Please let me know your ideas and interests. And if you're making a transition yourself, whether it is from another state or another profession, please let me know how I can help. I look forward to serving the STC WVC this coming season.

Patti Loverink is owner of Loverink Documentation Services, Inc. and president of the Willamette Valley Chapter of the Society for Technical Communication. She can be reached at patti@loverink.com