THE CHAIRMAN'S REPORT - THE YEAR TO COME

In keeping with our culinary theme tonight, I need to acknowledge all the Chefs, cooks and kitchen help that make possible the delicious feast that is Keene!! We have something special and it is no accident! The Chamber, proudly, is a significant force in the community that maintains this level of excellence. This past year I've witnessed an amazing array of talent, passion and energy which has both accomplished what we've done and helped to form the vision and plan for progress well into the future.

Our Platinum Sponsor this evening, Cheshire Medical-Dartmouth -Hitchcock-Keene, announced their vision and mission to make Keene and surrounds the "Healthiest region in the nation by the year 2020! What a picture! The Chamber applauded and embraced this effort. In planning our support we realized that, being the Chamber of Commerce, we had a complimentary role to play in the business arena.

Therefore, with the permission of Cheshire Medical, we have created a new committee, Economic Vision 2020, tasked with creating the Best Business Climate of any region in the country by 2020. Our Head Chef in this effort is Tom Minkler who is surrounded and supported by the GKCC Directors, staff, committees and members. Our first look revealed that there were very few areas not involved in a successful run at this Goal!

Sous Chef George Foskett has just formed our Center City Vibrancy Committee. Their mission is to identify businesses that would enhance the vibrancy of the downtown Keene area, locate similar businesses in area towns, provide them with our demographic information and get theirs. We will then link owners of prospective businesses with Keene building owners that can accommodate their needs and let them work out the business details.

Fortunately, we are already involved. B2B Committee breakfast forums; Business after Hours networking program; Business Expo's; Heading for Home, an affordable workforce housing coalition; Workforce Coordinator; Commerce Coordinator; Collaborative activities with all the important forces involved in positive change! The Chamber provides that constant that can coordinate all these efforts. We are your advocate everyday. Positive Business change is what we do!

There are many more layers to address but, in Keene, there are many more selfless, passionate, talented people to address them. To paraphrase Pogo "We have met the workers and they is us!" Take that to heart as you read this. Look around the Hall. These are the faces that keep showing up at the meetings and doing the work. If that's not you Change that! Find your area of interest, your passion, and step up. We need you to accomplish these lofty goals. Call the Chamber. We can get you involved!

Bill O'Meara

GKCC Board Chair
2008-2009