WCC President helps kick off Kaneland WINS' second year by Susan O'Neill Kaneland WINS, a local women's group that focuses on networking, personal and professional growth, as well as community service, kicked off its second year of monthly meetings with a presentation on “The Endless Search for Balance,” from Waubonsee Community College President Dr. Christine Sobek. Sobek, who wears the many hats of community college president, community leader, wife, mother and daughter, said her interest in the topic began from a very personal need to gain balance in her own life. She said people often ask her how she accomplishes all that she does in her life. She doesn't profess to be adept at the art of balancing her many roles and activities. However, she did have quite a bit of advice from people she called “the experts” in the topic. She told the audience of approximately 60 women that one of her personal favorites is the to-do list that reads, “Things I absolutely have to do today: breathe in and breathe out.” Although her statement was met with much laughter, she said this philosophy does put things in perspective. She also explained that although individuals in the 21st century think the quest for balance is a modern problem, Thomas Jefferson's 10 points for leading a balanced life would show them otherwise. The group, which is in its second year of existence, meets during the lunch hour on the third Tuesday of each month. Membership in the group has grown quickly, and women have the opportunity to enjoy the combination of camaraderie and information, as well as the chance to further their own business goals or to help other women with theirs. Each month is dedicated to a specific community service, and women bring items that are donated to a service organization in the area. A 50-50 raffle also allows the group to address immediate needs identified at the time of each meeting. Kaneland WINS stands for Women, Insight, Networking and Service. For the line-up of speakers and topics for the upcoming months and more information about the group, visit the website at www.kanelandWINS.org or call 945-7086 09/22/2006