Buying Local is Good for the Local Economy and Job Creation

Everyone who is a consumer or buyer for a business in Valparaiso can greatly help the local economy with the simple act of buying from local Valpo Chamber members. The simple reality is that local businesses employ local people and those dollars spent locally, going right back into the local economy in terms of payroll and local property taxes. Let’s not forget local businesses support local not-for-profits and local charities as well as churches and many other local organizations.
The Times Media Company and the Valpo Chamber have teamed up to promote a “Buy Local” campaign for the next 26 weeks beginning in August. Chamber members will have the opportunity to purchase advertising packages at a reduced rate and will be sent a buy local sticker to signify their identity as a local business where the Chamber and the Times encourages consumers to shop.

Surveys around the country have found that local businesses benefit where there are “Buy Local” campaigns. In a recent 2011 survey, the Institute for Local Self-Reliance found:

• 41% of local businesses said it brought in new customers to their businesses.
• 61 % of local businesses surveyed said they had revenue growth over the 54% of the previous year.
• Those areas that had “Buy Local” initiatives reported revenue growth of 7.2% in 2011 compared to a 2.6% for those areas without the initiative.  

We encourage all consumers in the Valparaiso Area to shop with Chamber members who make up the great critical mass of our local Economy. 
Rex Richards, President
richards@valparaisochamber.org

 

Ribbon Cuttings put Chamber Members a “Cut Above” the Rest!

A ribbon cutting ceremony typically symbolizes a new start.

Just like a couple beginning a new life together, a new business can use a ribbon-cutting ceremony to show the public that it is open for business. Historically, a ribbon stretched across an entryway signifies that what is behind the ribbon is waiting to be “presented to the world.”

This month, that might be a hot dog eatery or a candy store!

The Valpo Chamber conducts ribbon cuttings to signify the grand opening of a brand new business or new location; the celebration of a special anniversary; the expansion of a business; or, a business under new ownership.

Our role is to assist the owner of the business with their celebration. We post the event on our website and in our newsletter, and send a reminder before the event. On the day of the event, we bring the ceremonial scissors (no running with them!), the camera for the photo op, and the ribbon. Sometimes city officials attend as well. But, the rest is up to the business owner and how they want to celebrate.

Ribbon cuttings are scheduled by request, and vary from month to month. Last year we conducted 22 ribbon cuttings. In July 2012 alone, we have five scheduled ribbon cutting events, marking a record 22 ribbon events so far! (See our website calendar for dates & places.)

Everyone is welcome to attend ribbon cuttings. They are a great way to check out a new business, welcome a new face, or share in the camaraderie of your fellow chamber members.

Join us at a ribbon cutting event, won’t you?

Danielle Oeding
Vice President, Sales & Marketing
oeding@valparaisochamber.org

June 7, 2012: A Chamber Milestone

June 7, 2012. A very important milestone for the Valpo Chamber. One hundred years ago, on this date, the organization was founded.

Very few things last for 100 years. The Valpo chamber has not only lasted, but continues to thrive and remain an important business organization working day in and day out to serve our 700+ members, the community, and the region.

The true fabric which has pieced the Chamber’s 100 years together is the common theme of a committed business community that has volunteered time, talents, and financial resources to make the organization effective.

The Winter 2012 issue of the Valparaiso Magazine had a cover picture with two Valpo business leaders: Len Ellis, founder of Valparaiso’s first Radio Station nearly 50 years ago and Jon Schmaltz, local attorney. Both men share the experience of being the Chair of the Chamber Board of Directors. The difference between their services as Chair is a time span of nearly fifty years apart.

Since it is my great privilege to know them both, I am struck by their same firm belief about the Chamber. Each is committed to the vision and values of the Valpo Chamber and believes in the organization’s importance as a catalyst to make this community a great place to live and operate a business.

Len Ellis believed that 50 years ago because I have read editorials he wrote for the radio station at that time. Jon Schmaltz believes that today because I have seen his actions and heard his comments at our board meetings this year.

Every volunteer leader between has had that same belief. How fortunate the Valpo Chamber has been to have men and women who have led the organization spanning 100 years share that common belief and commitment to the organization.

To all the volunteers, board members, and officers and employees of the Valpo Chamber during the last 100 years, I say thank you!

Rex G. Richards
President
richards@valparaisochamber.org

Chamber Celebrates Centennial Year

100 years.

It’s a long time.

In 1912, life expectancy was a mere 47 years. The average wage was .22 per hour. And, only 8% of homes had telephones. Roosevelt was president. There were only 46 states.* And 95% of births took place at home. Oh baby, we’ve come a long way.

The Valpo Chamber is celebrating its Centennial Year, and we’ve come a long way too. We’ve grown by leaps and bounds. What was once known as the Commercial Club evolved into the Greater Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce on June 7, 1912. The same year that the Titanic sank, Fenway Park opened, and the Girl Scouts were established. Through victories and defeats, economic growth and down economies, what is now known as the Valpo Chamber is an organization of strength and accomplishment, of respect and vigor. We are over 700 members strong, and growing each year.

We celebrate 100 years in good company. This year also marks the centennial year for LL Bean, Arthur Murray dance studios, and NIPSCO. Heavy-hitters like Kellogg’s, Chevy, Whirlpool and General Electric have recently reached that 100-year mark. It’s a recognition we don’t take lightly.
We are proud to commemorate this special occasion and wish to extend our profound thanks to our membership businesses, countless volunteers, and strong board leadership. You are the reason we withstood the test of time. More importantly, you are the reason we continue to carry out the chamber mission of serving business needs, enhancing quality of life and providing opportunities. You have brought us to this pinnacle, and we are excited for what the future holds.

*wondering what states were NOT yet states in 1912? Oklahoma, Arizona, Alaska, & Hawaii

Danielle Oeding
Vice President, Sales & Marketing
oeding@valparaisochamber.org