May 2014
From the President By Aaron Kapellusch As I continue my journey here at the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce I am simply amazed by the strength and involvement of our membership. My first Small Business Week was a whirlwind of activity and such a positive experience. When I met with my predecessor, Jeff Zriny, last year, we talked about key annual events at the Chamber and his eyes lit up when he spoke about the hallowed week here at the Chamber. It was impossible to understand what he was talking about until I experienced it firsthand. There is much work that starts again the minute the week is over and continues throughout the entire year and I want to extend my thanks to our wonderful staff here at the Chamber, as well as the countless volunteers, sponsors, and attendees who make Small Business Week one of the highlights of the year. While this packed week is full of learning, networking, and goodwill in our business community, it’s only a small part of what we have to offer here at the Chamber. It is our mission to provide you, our members, with value and a good return on your investment. We
In this issue . . . • • • • • • • •
E3YP Member News Business Advocacy Small Business Week Ambassador of the Month Volunteer Spotlight New Members Ribbon Cuttings
continue to increase our educational programming to make sure there is something that appeals to everyone. We have a number of series targeted to different demographics of our membership. If you haven’t attended one of Aaron Kapellusch our events lately, please consider doing so; if you have any ideas about what might be a great fit for you, please feel free to contact me anytime. Our new Young Professionals group, E3 Young Professionals (E3YP), had a kick-off informational meeting last week and I was blown away by the 146 individuals who attended to learn more. I met many young professionals who had not previously participated in Chamber events and I watched business connections being made. The Chamber spent the last six months learning what other Chambers across the state and country are doing to provide value to their young professionals. We pulled together a steering committee, comprised of 20 Under Forty award winners and other young professionals, to lay out a framework for the E3YP program. Last week’s kick-off is only the beginning. The purpose of E3YP is to engage young professionals with each other, the community, and businesses; to empower young professionals with leadership opportunities and development tools to grow; and to excite young professionals to work, play, and stay in
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