SPRING IS COMING ... TIME TO PLANT SOME ASQ SEEDS!
by Jo Haberstok
Are you a winter person, someone who loves seeing six inches of snow on the ground for weeks, the nearby ski resorts open every day, and you get to bundle up in layers? Or are you a summer person, basking in 100-plus degrees, enjoying hot weather sports, shorts, and sandals? Or maybe you’re an in-betweener – you don’t mind a little snow (as long as it doesn’t stick around for long) but you look forward to warmer weather and being able to leave the puffy parka and scarf in the closet so you can get outside, work in the yard again, and start planting vegetables.
We’ve been pretty fortunate in our area so far this winter in terms of the weather. Even so, we are probably all at least beginning to think about Spring being on the horizon. When I think of Spring, I think about new growth – the grass beginning to turn green, and the daffodils, crocuses, and tulips starting to bloom.
New growth doesn’t just happen – it takes some effort. You need to plan the garden layout, prepare the soil, sow seeds or plant flowers, fertilize, water, and more.
With spring just around the corner, this is a good time to start thinking about ways to grow our local ASQ section as well. Our leadership team is always looking for ideas – and volunteers – to help recruit new members.
There are many ways you can help. Here is just one.
I’d like to request that each of you approach at least one co-worker, friend, or family member who may be interested in the field of quality (which includes communications, teamwork, leadership, quality standards, tools, and techniques) about joining ASQ every month in 2025. That’s just 12 individuals, most of whom you probably talk to about some aspect of quality on a regular basis. Some employers will even cover the annual membership fee of $185. Membership offers many benefits, including:
• Professional development opportunities
• Certification discounts
• Networking
• ASQ publications
Please take a moment and reach out to someone you know about joining ASQ and our Columbia Basin section. Check the ASQ Membership web page for more information.