Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/315858
Member Services Brigitte Moten, Vice Chair This division successfully provides services and support that meet the needs of members. The Chamber continues to offer a cross-section of promotional, networking and educational events. Programs in 2012 included: • Promotional: 22 Grand Openings and Ribbon Cutting ceremonies; • Networking: Nine Business After Hours, Five Connecting Over Coffee, Annual Golf Classic; Reenergized Young Professionals Network; • Educational: Three Procurement Seminars (40 attendees per event); Initiated Regional planning for Leadership Events (Held first Regional Leadership event in November); • Supported Leadership Macon class in support of homeless coalition. Military Affairs Walt Miller, Vice Chair This group provides support for Robins Air Force Base and Air Logistics Complex, and the members of the Guard and Reserve in Central Georgia. During 2012 the division: • Led community efforts, "Coming Together" to address encroachment issues affecting South Bibb county; • Continued the purchase of homes in South Bibb and the transfer of that initiative to the Regional Commission; • Participated in fund raising efforts for Sgt. Rodney Davis memorial monument; • Hosted events and participated in other events honoring General George, General McMahon and Major General Butterworth, Adjutant General of Georgia; • President Dyer participated in Community Liaison programs at Wright-Patterson AFB and Tinker AFB; • Participated in annual Family to Family Food Drive during holidays. Regional and Government Partnerships Dan Slagle, Vice Chair This division initiates and supports regional and local partnerships which lead to economic growth and stability. Our key accomplishments during 2012 included: • Supported TSPLOST initiative with Dan Slagle and Monica Smith serving as co-chairs of the TSPLOST Regional Committee; • Supported Macon-Bibb County Consolidation referendum; • Lobbied legislators in support of Sardis Church Road extension, I-16/I-75 interchange improvements, funding for encroachment issues, economic development, education, and Consolidation; • Hosted Macon Day and A Taste of Macon; • Hosted three "Good Morning Macon" sessions with local government leaders, military leaders, local delegates; • Initiated discussions with area Chambers to "Come Together" to support regional efforts. Membership Dan Forrester, Vice Chair As the advocate for business, the Chamber focuses on projects and programs that serve the interests of the community. Businesses are joining with us to move the community forward. Our work in 2012 resulted in: • Increase in membership investments totaling over $535,000; Macon NOW Thomas Wicker, Vice Chair Phase II of Macon Now! Initiative is focused on economic growth and prosperity for the region. In 2012: • Received pledges of over $2,000,000 in the Macon NOW II initiative. 2012 Chamber Highlights Business After Hours Business After Hours are monthly events that allow chamber members to host a reception and showcase their venue. Attendees network with other Chamber members and enjoy great food, drinks and door prizes.