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CHAMBER EXPO » THE SEA COAST ECHO
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2004 « 3
I am the Chamber --You are the Chamber -We are the Chamber
BY TISH WILLIAMS Executive Director Hancock Chamber
WHAT IS THE CHAMBER?
In many communities, the Chamber is the first stop for visitors, new residents, even retail and	industrial
jrospects.
Fortunately,	Hancock
bounty has made an investment in furthering the devel-jpment of our economy to the industrial and visitor sectors through the Port and Harbor Commission and the Tourism Development Bureau. The Chamber works in concert with these organizations to support their efforts.
In Hancock County, the Chamber of Commerce is the heartbeat of this community. It is the glue that brings all segments of the community together, working toward common goals.
In short, the Chamber is a voluntary organization of more than 750 business, community and governmental leaders representing more than 5,000 employees. Through the Chamber, we speak with one voice to address issues of concern to our community that affect our economy, social and civic well-being. That is our mission.
When it comes to smart business growth, it’s no puzzle where to begin. Strong businesses focus on connect-ing'with the community, with other businesses and with clients. All these pieces come together for members of the Hancock Chamber.
The Chamber is the vehicle that gives all of us the chance to make a difference for our community and our businesses.
And, as one of the fastest growing areas in Mississippi, we need to tap all of our resources to insure that as leaders we are making smart choices for smart growth.
Tish Williams
WHY SHOULD I JOIN?
The Chamber is a great way to market your business and make a difference for your community through active involvement. In short, there are six compelling reasons why you should join:
1.	Networking for Members
Monthly Business After Hours
Ribbon Cuttings & Open Houses
Annual Awards Gala in April
Business & Industry Golf Tournament each November
2.	Annual Marketing Opportunities
Business & Industry Expo each September
Member Mailing List ~ 750 contacts
Special Supplements (7,700 circulation through the Sea Coast Echo)
Chambergram Newsletter Advertising and Feature Stories (circulation 750)
3.	Seminars & Workshops
Annual	Leadership
Training
Business Counseling Services through the USM Small Business Development
Center
Coffee Call Programs
4. Business Referrals & Services
New Resident Inquiries Inquiries for Community & Business Services
Point of Origin Documentation
Area Maps (circulation: 5,000)
New Image Magazine & Business Directory coming in November
Special chamber designation in the EATEL Sunshine Pages Directory
Distribution of Business, Community & Tourist Information
Partnership with Area & State Organizations
Website Listing and Links
6. Active Community Involvement
Beautification Committee chaired by Ellis
Cuevas, Publisher Emeritus of the Sea Coast Echo: Antilitter campaigns, beautification projects and awards, cleanup campaigns
Community Development Committee chaired by Ron Magee of NASA Stennis Space Center: Smart Growth Program for cultural	preservation,
enhancement of natural resources and green spaces, citizen safety, uniform building codes and ordinances, improved sidewalks, streets, bike paths and drainage, uniform gateways
Education chaired by Dr. Sherry Ponder: Hancock 100 Club'a perpetual scholarship fund to benefit graduates from area high schools, and Student Directors to the Chamber Board; focuses on issues affecting community education; community col-
C HAMBER--PAGE 6
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