It was great to see many of you at the board meeting! We really got a lot accomplished. As mentioned, *another themed newsletter is coming out by Feb. 1st on ADVOCACY. *Our hope is to get members, old and new, motivated and educated about the Policy Seminar and other ways to advocate in our state and local districts during this tenuous time. We need your *short news clips,stories and even political but non partisan comics! * Some ideas: - Reflections from my FIRST Policy Seminar - A view from Alums: the importance of their presence on the Hill - Advocacy Do's and Don'ts - Going to Policy? Here are some tips from your Board (I got this one - from your input at the meeting. Thank you!) - Using Social Media for Advocacy: How and when (BRYAN??) - When to invite your congressman/women to your programs and how to ask - Anything else that you think may be useful... And these..... from our earlier posting...... - WHAT is the Policy Seminar and why is it important? A short primer and how to prepare. (Sarah and Lindsay) - Save the date- COE Policy Sem dates and tentative schedule - What are we advocating for? Why? What's so different in this political climate? - What do we do that's effective when advocating for our programs? --strategies that have worked - Summary of the Advocacy Forum held last month - Successful talking points when meeting with members of congress - Do you know what your state materials (that we give to congressional delegates look like?) Who to ask? - Upcoming advocacy opportunities and resources *Some of the above can be very short with links provided for more detailed info.* We are asking for your submissions by *MONDAY JAN 27th.* *Please give us a hand.This is the MOST IMPORTANT communication to go out to membership this year, along with the conference.* *We welcome your reply to let us know if you plan to submit. Please spread the word! * *With appreciation,* *Linda, Rachel and Bryan*