The second annual “Women Gaining Ground” conference will take place Sat., April 30th, in Glenwood. According to officials with the ISU Extension Service, the day will be jam-packed with fun and informative opportunities.  Participants are invited to arrive between 8-and 9- a.m. to check in, browse vendor booths, and enjoy a famous Donut Stop donut, fresh fruit and coffee bar.

At 9-a.m., Laurie Guest will take the stage for her presentation, Life in the Espresso Lane.”  With a mix of fun and wisdom, she will share behaviors that can change our accelerated lives and teach us how to manage our mental caffeine and find contentment even during stressful times.  Laurie is the author of “Wrapped In Stillness” and blogs at www.solutionsarebrewing.com..

Following the Keynote Speaker, the first breakout session will be held and participants will be invited to choose one of the following:

• Becoming A Grape Goddess:  A history of grape growing in Western Iowa and discussion about efforts to establishing the Loess Hills American Viticulture Area.
• Ag In Iowa.  So What?:  Jenni Richards, District Field manager with the Iowa Corn Growers Association, will discuss Iowa corn and the importance of getting involved in the industry.  Carrie Kelly, the Producer Services Regional Coordinator in Western Iowa for the Iowa Soybean Association, will explain the services offered Iowa ISA and discuss finding the “right fit” for Iowa soybean producers.
• Building Business Rapport~Marketing Strategies:  Dana Wenstrand will address the basics of effective communication, customer service, and marketing strategies to make a positive impact in promoting your business.  YOU!
• Meals In Minutes:  A Love Story:  Whitney Larsen, a Registered Dietician and Licensed Medical Nutrition Therapist, will present tips and tricks on creating healthy, simple, fast and affordable meals while Chef Corey Hall demonstrates the preparation of a family-friendly recipe.

The second break-out session will begin at 11:30 and will feature topics that include:

• Building Business Rapport
• Farmland Ownership & Management
• Putting Pinterest Into Practice
• Low-Maintenance Landscaping

Participants will be treated to a hearty lasagna lunch. During the lunch hour, there will be time to visit the vendor booths and socialize.  There will also be drawings for door prizes and a $100 Early Bird Cash Prize.

The final session of the day will feature topics that include:

• Iowa:  Caught In The Crosshairs of Human Trafficking
• Low-Maintenance Landscaping
• Ag In Iowa.  So What
• Putting Pinterest Into Practice

The day’s activities will conclude around 2:30 or 3:00-p.m.  Vendor applications are still be accepting for the event.  Download the form at www.extension.iastate.edu/fremont .

Registration forms are available at www.extension.iastate.edu/montgomery or by visiting the Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/womenlandlegacywgg/.

Register by April 8^th to take advantage of Early Bird discounts and for a chance to win $100 CASH!  The final registration deadline is April 21st. For more information, call Iowa State University Extension & Outreach—Montgomery County at (712) 623-2592.