CHAMBER NEWS & VIEWS

Membership has its privileges. Remember that? American Express used that branding slogan from 1974 to 1987. I’ve now repurposed that branding for the chamber.

Joining the chamber sets you apart from other business owners. Membership gives you the chance to belong to a group of like-minded people who support our community and each other. That support comes in the form of networking and a referral system. Once other members get to know you, then the referrals begin. As the old saying goes, we like to do business with people we know. So come to chamber events and get your name and face out there.

Members-only territory includes our monthly coffees and Business After Hours. Until you join, you’re missing out on networking and refreshments before and after work. For the Business After Hours, think adult beverages.

Our monthly luncheon is for members and non-members alike … but we tack a few bucks onto the non-member admission fee. We’re hoping after a few lunches; you’ll become a new member; then we’ll give you that sweet member luncheon price.

Non-members are invited to attend our weekly Wednesday networking group called the Exchange. Bring a stack of business cards and a brown bag lunch. Non-members can come for a bit. But then we will ask you to join. This networking and referral system was designed to benefit our members. Again, membership has its privileges.

Our two annual Business Expos give our members the chance to talk about their business and services to local residents. But sometimes, we’re just all about fun – think about the annual chamber golf classic. Designed for fun, but you can network if you want. It’s your choice.

But sometimes, we want to do something besides networking, just because we can and should. On Saturday, Dec. 14, some members of our Veterans and Military Affairs Committee will be taking part in the Florida National Cemetery Wreaths Across America. It’s our chance to “remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach our children the value of freedom.” For more information, use this link: www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.

So there you have it. I’m trying to recruit you non-members. How did I do? Just remember, membership has its privileges. And I‘m eager to welcome you to the Sun City Center Area Chamber of Commerce family.

Finally, we do have one housekeeping note. Due to all the construction going on around town, we can’t seem to get from here to there for our Golf Cart Poker Run this Friday. We are going to have to hold off until conditions get a little better … so everyone can have a good time and not get lost.

Lynne Conlan is Executive Director of the Sun City Center Area Chamber of Commerce. Call her at 813-634-5111, or email lynne@sccchamber.com.