Issue link: http://visitithaca.uberflip.com/i/464557
The Chamber sta and membership community spent 2014 demonstrating how truly strong and spirited they are. Weathering several major changes in one year could cause trouble in some organizations, and yet we survived a leadership transition, a facilities debacle and several personnel changes. We are stronger today than before and headed in a great direction. There's no question we wouldn't be where we are as a Chamber without the work of Jean McPheeters over the last many years. I'm proud to have joined such a fantastic organization, and to say our collective accomplishments in 2014 included: · Continued implementation of our strategic plan, which focuses on Grow, Learn, Advocate and Market strategies (as well as "Administer") · A second round of OJT grant funding, which provided nearly $90K to help train 25 individuals · Advancing community eorts such as beautication, the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, and the Friends of the Stewart Park Project · Laying the groundwork for a comprehensive Waynding Community Signage Program · A stronger Convention & Visitors Bureau under the leadership of Bruce Sto, with a banner year of tourism to boast for the eorts · Numerous high quality, well attended networking events, thanks to our many sponsors and donors! In 2015, we look forward to enhancing our marketing and social media strategies; continuing eorts to advocate for business and economic development needs; pursuing quality Chamber and community events; and working to enhance the quality of life to continue making Tompkins County a great place to live, work, learn and grow. Through the investments of our supporters, boards, committees, and sta members, this organization has grown and evolved with the Ithaca and Tompkins County community. We look forward to continuing to serve you in 2015 and beyond, and I thank you sincerely for your warm welcome! Strength Through Perseverance Chamber President Jennifer Tavares