December 2008

Dear Reader,

We are living in turbulent times. We, here at Networking® magazine, realize the current financial climate affects the marketing plans of our advertisers and, especially at this holiday season, we thank those who continue to support us. For 18 years Networking® magazine has delivered the goods, creating success for the Island’s business and non-profit communities. Logic may tell you to decrease your ad budget but history has shown just the opposite is true. Optimizing goals in a challenging economy requires increasing your exposure through a proven source like Networking® magazine that speaks to those you most want to reach. Call us and we will work out a schedule that will point your company towards a prosperous 2009.

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Thanksgiving and the holidays are here, and I have been reflecting on how fortunate our family has been during recent years. Denis and I have a nice home, two beautiful grown sons and we have built thriving businesses from scratch with the help of very talented staffs.

Of course we all know that this year is probably the most difficult one that we’ve seen in our lifetime. The fear of the unknown also affects philanthropic giving. All of the not-for-profits are unsure of what the future will hold for their clients and each agency’s continuing ability to provide adequate and essential services. Food pantries and food banks are nearly empty at a time when that aid is more essential than ever as the number of those in need grows with the current crisis in our economy. Already not-for-profits feel the constriction in the markets. The ever-generous Long Island corporations and businesses have always been able and willing to step up to the plate to help the agencies meet their goals.

Now we are all in trouble and will share the difficult times. We need to reach out whenever we can to help others less fortunate. To volunteer to help as each of us is able is an opportunity, and to do so may be the most important contribution we can make to society and to our community.

Each December Networking® magazine prints the United Way of Long Island’s Holiday Wish List which is taken from the requests of its member agencies. These requests are for donations, volunteers and services to benefit many of the underprivileged and other needy individuals and families on Long Island in a large variety of ways. The Wish List begins on page 14.

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Our cover story this December is about East End Hospice. The Island-wide hospice care network is a blessing for many as they face the end of life. The support of these dedicated volunteers and professionals is crucial to the families they aid in their homes. Hospice services can make all the difference in the world when dealing with the sad reality of the imminent death of a loved one. Hospice care volunteers are truly angels of mercy. See the piece written by Maureen Traxler on page 12.

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We are beginning the countdown for the Eighth Annual David Awards Breakfast on January 15th at the Crest Hollow Country Club. The Breakfast has always been such an inspirational and uplifting event. This year - more than ever - we will appreciate the strength we obtain from hearing the stories of how our eight wonderful new Davids became the Long Island leaders that they are. See our David Awards ad on the inside back cover and plan to join us.

A beautiful Holiday season to you and yours.
Christine Conniff Sheahan