Hello,

Well, the new IPCA board has been together just over three months. During that time we have put together a list of short-, medium-, and long-term strategic goals and objectives. The list was not developed in a vacuum, but used the information from the 2009 Strategic Goals, from previous survey suggestions and suggestions from members. We have a lot of work ahead of us to implement these goals, but I am please to say that progress has already been made. The following items have already been implemented or will be implemented shortly:

• Distribution of VHS library materials
• Reactivation of quarterly Membership Appreciation Awards
• Monthly artist/guild spotlight, alternating between U.S and international members
• Activation of a new Yahoo site for guild liasons and sharing of ideas
• Guild swaps
• Setting up sister guilds between U.S. and international sites
• Twice-a-month interviews with members by the Web Content Editor
• Announcing a Letters to the Editor section
• In-depth interviews about up coming events
• Health and Safety information from Kerrie Venner 

Besides these items I am pleased to announce a new section for members only: Beginning Business Kit. One of the most frequently asked questions I get is “How do I . . . ?” While the IPCA is not in the position to provide consulting or professional assistance, it is in the unique position of having many members who have experience in this area.

This section will contain articles on topics such as social media, setting up a fan page on Facebook, using social media as a marketing tool and more. It will also have links to various sites such as Wendy Rosen’s, Handmadeology, Etsy Success and others. The key pieces will be templates (business cards, earring cards, pamphlet layouts, etc.) and specific how-tos. For instance, how to setup a Facebook fan page, how to setup to sell on Etsy. If you would like to contribute to this section, just let me know. But, please, do not contribute others’ information without their permission.

The International Polymer Clay Association is excited to be introducing more benefits for its members. I will keep you updated on the progress as we work on more objectives. You may be asked to participate and lend your expertise. After all, this is your association. We need to work together to continue adding value to IPCA!

Are you attending the IPCA 2011 Retreat in Bloomingdale, IL, July 13-16? Are you taking any of the pre-Retreat classes? If not, consider signing up. There will be demos, fun, food and sun. The IPCA 2009 Retreat was a blast, and this one is shaping up to be better than ever!

Thank you.
Beth Ackley
President, IPCA