Incoming Chamber President

I have served on the Wallace Chamber of Commerce for three years. Going into the presidency, sounds strange to me. Having worked with board members for a number of years and having covered their events as a reporter for the last 10 years, the Chamber is a comfort zone in my familiarity of what goes on in this organization.There have been some bumps on that road, but with the ever-changing environment, they have worked themselves out allowing the Chamber to evolve into a stronger entity.
The Wallace Chamber is, first and foremost, a voluntary business membership organization. Our resources are derived from the time, skills and financial support of our members. Through partnerships between business and community organizations, we work to build a healthy economy and improve the quality of life in our community and region. We are the extended hand that offers information to help business members succeed and will strive to continue these practices by offering a Plan of Work schedule with our new board members. We are looking forward to producing a plan of action for 2009.
Many know the Chamber is defined by people's perception of our past accomplishments, our current actions and our preparation to deal with the future. As we work to accomplish this goal, we wear many hats: Economic developer and planner, tourist information, business spokesperson, economic counselor and teacher, governmental relations specialist, human resources advisor and public relations manager.
How can all of this happen? These hats are worn proudly by our volunteers. It is a unified effort of business and professional people working together to make the community a better place for everyone to live and work. The scope and effectiveness of this effort is limited only by the commitment of our leaders and members.
As president of the Wallace Chamber of Commerce, my plans are simple: to continue the positive success of my predecessors. With Lou Powell at the helm as executive director, she will make my job easier. I am excited about the upcoming board who have years of experience in business and marketing. We will be looking at ways to enhance our services.
Some of the things we will continue are the Chamber Golf Classic, monthly meetings or Chamber After Hours, our annual banquet, Christmas at Twilight and the annual Christmas Parade. Between events there will be opportunities to learn and grow. James Sprunt Community College has worked closely with us on programs called "Lunch and Learn." Where there is an interest, we can set up management workshops, marketing workshops and even motivational seminars.
We have a strong force of political opportunities. We can participate in round table discussions on topics of importance to the community as well as provide updated information about legislation that affects the community. This a good way to find out positions that are available on governing boards and take part in the governmental process.
The Chamber does strive to make the community a better place to live and do business, so that economic growth will take place — which effects the entire business community.
By serving on various Chamber committees, it gives the business person an opportunity to volunteer in a way that will promote their business. It is a time to show that businesses are not just about the bottom line, but also about community enhancement. This promotes a positive image for all.
Joining the Chamber is the wisest investment you'll ever make. It is a small investment for a large return. When a business member is recognized as being involved in community activities, others will notice. As an added benefit, volunteering is a personally enriching experience. I have been a part of that process and have seen firsthand how it makes for a stronger, more unified community. We will work on gaining chamber members.
I have a vision of making Wallace a tourist destination spot. It will “take a village” to accomplish that. We can certainly boast that we are the largest town in our county. Our town serves beyond its corporate city limits which has allowed growth and prosperity.
Despite the current economic downturn, we are seeing retail stores and restaurants deciding that Wallace is “the” place to do business. We welcome them all. Many have or will become Chamber members. The networking that can be shared is invaluable and the Chamber serves as that extended arm to enhance trade and promote "Shop Wallace First."

Sheila Young