by Colette M. Armijo
RATON — The City of Raton welcomed members of the Professional Business Women of New Mexico (PBWNM) for its 91st Annual State Conference last weekend.
Some 30 members were in attendance from all three chapters – Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Raton. The state conference kicked off on Friday, April 24 as Raton members greeted the participants at the Best Western Plus Raton Hotel.
PBWNM Raton’s activities got under way a little earlier when officers for 2015-2016 were installed on Thursday. A Rainbow Installation Ceremony paved the way for Colette Armijo – President, Paula Cacciatore – Vice President, Amanda Moore – Secretary and Bernadine Barela – Treasurer to accept their roles as the chapter’s new executive team. PBWNM Raton currently has 20 members.
PBWNM’s conference attendees were hosted in true Raton style: the ladies mixed and mingled at the welcome reception and then were entertained by the vocal band Six Appeal at the Historic Schuler Theatre.
On Saturday morning, the packed program got under way at 8 am. The Honorable Sandra Mantz, Mayor of Raton delivered the welcome and opening remarks. Mayor Mantz was a member of PBWNM when it was known as Business and Professional Women (BPW).
Business matters included the sharing of state reports, local chapter reports and new ideas during the 2015/2016 planning session. State Officers were also installed: Michael Anne Antonucci (PBWNM – Raton) as President, Mary Stramel (PBWNM – Albuquerque) as President Elect, Dorinda Fox (PBWNM – Albuquerque) as Vice President Membership, Paula Cacciatore (PBWNM – Raton) as Secretary and Kathy L. Jahner (PBWNM – Santa Fe) as Treasurer were all welcomed into their official positions.
The Young Professional Competition followed in which Chanel Wiese – Albuquerque, Leah Chavez – Santa Fe and Lieann Bernal – Raton each represented their local chapters. The Young Professional Program aims to help young careerists, ages 22 to 35, in the area of professional development. These candidates usually go through a screening and selection process within their chapter from a wider pool of candidates. They are judged in the areas of judges’ interview, group interaction, resume and biographical information, ability to help others achieve, and their prepared speech on specific topics. This year Leah Chavez was the recipient of the 2015 PBWNM Young Professional Award.
One of PBWNM’s goals is to empower women by sharing information and tools to help them succeed both professionally and in their day to day lives. In keeping with this, part of the conference’s agenda was the workshop “Preserving Your Health & Vitality Through Nutrition & Breath.” This was led by Lisa Costlow C.Ay who is a Reiki and Energy healer. Lisa introduced the ladies to basic breathing techniques and meditation as tools for stressful lifestyles. She also touched on the ancient healing science of Ayurveda and shared how Doshas together with monitoring your environment, habits and nutrition could lead toward a healthier and happier life.
PBWNM has been in existence for over 91 years. While the different chapters share various founding dates, the goals are the same. This long standing organization recognizes, supports and inspires successful women in New Mexico.
PBWNM has been advocating for women’s issues at a local, state and national level since 1923. Raton’s chapter has received annual proclamations such as Womens’ History Month, Equal Pay and Against Domestic Violence.
Within Raton, PBWNM continues to work through development programs, awareness drives and mentoring to help create a stronger community. Members can be seen active at initiatives such as the candidate forum, participation in the Colfax County Relay for Life and the annual Walk Against Domestic Violence (partnered with Raton Kiwanis). PBWNM also annually names a Business Woman of the Year and awards a scholarship for the fall semester.
PBWNM consistently creates opportunity to network and grow its members both personally and professionally. Regular meetings and workshops provide a warm almost family like atmosphere where lifelong friends are made.
Membership is open to all women and men who support PBWNM’s goals and objectives. To learn more about PBWNM, and to maybe even become a member, check out their website http://pbwnm.org/
