Professionals, business owners, entrepreneurs, and the public are invited to join The Working Women’s Forum on Wednesday, January 9 for a panel discussion and networking.

Judith Miller of Manzi Insurance of Newtown and Working Women’s Forum member will lead the panel discussion, “Top Things I Learned Starting My Own Business.” Bring your own questions for our small business owners.

Martina Sprague is a certified Stott Pilates instructor, certified Autism Movement Therapy instructor, and owner of Balanced Pilates and Barre Studio in Newtown. After working in the biotech industry for several years, Ms Sprague realized that health, fitness, and helping others was her true calling and decided to pursue her passion for Pilates.

She lives in Newtown with her husband, Kevin, their two daughters, Charlotte and Jacqueline, and their dog, Chula.

Jane Helfgott created The Bolt Quilt Shop from the ground up, opening its doors in January 2015, three months from inception. Ms Helfgott has been quilting steadily for the past 20 years and loves the freedom of expression and construction that it provides.

The Working Women’s Forum, an association of local professionals and entrepreneurs, meets the second Wednesday of each month at The Villa Restaurant, 4 Riverside Road in Sandy Hook. All are welcome.

Networking and light dinner begins at 6 pm, followed by the guest speaker. Program and dinner fee is $10 for members; $25 for nonmembers, along with a cash bar.

Every month, the group gratefully accepts canned food and personal health and beauty items for Newtown’s FAITH Food Pantry.

To register, contact Working Women’s Forum President Pat Marlin via e-mail at rsvp@workingwomensforum.net or call 203-426-7022.

To learn more about Workings Women’s Forum, visit workingwomensforum.net.