Women spearhead publication – Press pair major players in launch of new women’s business periodical

COEUR d’ALENE — Some women really mean business.

It was a mere 10 months ago that Evelyn Bevacqua and Diana Tuttle got together with a couple other gal pals in the business world to swap leads and discuss their jobs.

By RICK THOMAS
Staff writer

Today, the Northwest Women in Business Network has expanded to 80 members. That core of business women has helped hatch a new monthly Press publication, the North Idaho Business Journal for Women http://www.cdapress.com/special_section/18/ .

"I started talking to the other ladies, and found there was a tremendous need for this," said Bevacqua, general manager of the North Idaho Business Journal. "There was no local publication to support women. I decided to start a business journal for women."

Bevacqua made a proposal to Paul Burke, Press advertising director, who told her to run with it.

"Evelyn came up with the idea through her contacts in the community," said Burke. "It filled a void for North Idaho. I’ve been surprised and pleased with the response."

Bevacqua, who has been with The Press for the past year, combines business experience in restaurants and espresso stands with five years working for a Swiss newspaper.

"On the street I listen to what people say," said Bevacqua. "I saw there is a need for more business profiles."

Those profiles will be combined with health, lifestyle and home improvement stories and columns from a dozen women specialists in varying fields.

Those views of business will complement and double the size of the next North Idaho Business Journal when the March issue is published a week from Friday.

Bevacqua and Tuttle continue as coordinators of the Women in Business Network, and Bevacqua knew she’d need help to make the new publication something they’d all find beneficial.

She only had to look down the hall to find Karen Sherman, a Press reporter who jumped at the opportunity to become the new editor of the dual business publications.

Sherman, 24, has covered government, education and general assignments for The Press for nearly two years, and welcomed the chance to expand her horizons.

"I’m excited to be in this position, working with Evelyn," said Sherman.

She said among her goals will be improving the quality of stories and the entire product.

"We’ll be doing more features on entrepreneurs each month," said Sherman. "We think people will also enjoy seeing features on new startups."

The Press is also beginning a new program for subscribers to receive both of the North Idaho Business Journals for $19.95 per year.

Information: 664-0216