Edited by Sarah Kirby                                                                                                                                       August 30, 2010         
Vol. 2, Issue 34

Chamber In Motion

In This Issue
Courtesy Tip
Reminder: Online Billing
Traffic Catchers Site, A Hot Topic for Member Crashers
Ribbon Cuttings
Recognizing World Class Employees in Valdosta-Lowndes County
More than 900 member referrals and counting...
CHOICES positively impacts the lives of local teens
Member News
Courtesy Tip of the Week
Online Etiquette:
When utilizing a Web site's online support chat or ticket feature, be just as courteous as you would if you were face-to-face with the person on the other side.

These folks are behind the screen and there to help you. Be sure you type your questions as clearly as possible by using proper grammar and case. Also do your best to avoid any typos so that your request is taken seriously. Furthermore, take the time to include all the information they will need to help you with your concerns.


Once you get the information you seek, a quick "Thank you for your time!" will make the support agent's day.

View more.
Upcoming Events
Sept.
1-Chamber 101
     8-9 a.m.
     The Chamber


To RSVP, click here.

21-Advanced Traffic Catcher Workshop
    
10:30-noon
     South Georgia Regional Library

21-Business After Hours
    
5-7:30 p.m.
     James H. Rainwater 
     Conference Center
 
28-Web site design 
   for the Global Marketplace
         
30-Maximum Contact
Help us improve job opportunities in our community
Our local educational institutions are valuable sources of young talent that could be utilized for extra help in your business. We want to know how you feel about local internships and/or Co-ops. Please take a few moments to complete this survey.
 
From this survey we hope to learn more about how we can help connect businesses with knowledgeable college and university students to create mutually beneficial relationships. Thank you in advance for your help and cooperation.
 
Click here to complete a brief survey.
REMINDER: Electronic Invoices and Statements

Reminder: All Chamber members with e-mail addresses on file in the Chamber database now receive invoices and statements electronically. Please check your e-mail inboxes for all Chamber billing. If you have questions, contact Mike Stalvey
Increase Your Web Presence for FREE
Traffic Catcher Site, a Hot Topic for Member Crashers
Southern State Toyota Lift CIM
Pictured: Ambassadors Carmen Wilkinson (Telamon Corporation), Cindy Hotchkiss (E-Travel Anytime) and Vickie Godwin with Carlton Hart (Southern States Toyota Lift).

Seven Ambassadors visited 15 Chamber members for our monthly Member Crashers event to thank them for their membership and continued support on Aug. 26. Additionally, Ambassadors took this opportunity to explain our newest program, Traffic Catcher Site, which allows Chamber businesses to set up a web presence for free. The Web site provides a description of services, photographs and other information. This FREE marketing tool offers a way for members to promote their business and track the traffic to their site. Each Wednesday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. the Chamber is offering assistance on setting up the Traffic Catcher Sites.  For appointments or more information, please contact Sarah Kirby at 229-247-8100 or e-mail her at skirby@valdostachamber.com.
Ribbon Cuttings
Coombs Appliance Repair Ribbon Cutting 
Coombs Appliance Repair
509 West Hill Avenue
Valdosta, GA 31602

California Sun CIM
California Sun
1707 Norman Drive
Valdosta, GA 31601


Recognizing World Class Employees in Valdosta-Lowndes County
World Class Recognition Committee 2010
World Class Recognition Committee Members seated left to right: Carla Gervin (Goodwill Career Center), Emily Browning (Fowler, Holley, Rambo & Stalvey, PC), Greg Short (Kelly Services, Inc.), Megan Smith (SmithBarnas & Associates), Sherry Zipperer (Chair, First State Bank & Trust Co.), Ronnie Cooper (SAFT America Inc.) and Monica Boyd (SMITH Northview Hospital).

The World Class Recognition Committee convened recently to prepare for the upcoming nomination deadline on Sept. 17. Many studies on the work place have shown that being recognized for achievements, knowing that one's contributions matter to the organization and the opportunity for growth and professional development have a considerable impact on employee satisfaction and commitment. The committee anticipates an influx of nominations this year and looks forward to another record-breaking attendance at the First State Bank & Trust World Class Recognition Breakfast in November. 
 
Click here to nominate your world class employee today.
More than 900 Member Referrals and Counting...

CIM Member Referrals

Patty Martin (The Chamber) has been hard at work, giving more than 900 member referrals already this month. Typically, the Chamber gives approximately 400 member referrals per month, but this number has more than doubled for the month of August. These 900 referrals consist of walk-in, telephone, e-mail and mail referrals and do not include referrals received through our Web site. Martin is the first line of contact for those seeking information from the Chamber, giving us the perfect opportunity to promote YOUR business.
CHOICES Positively Impacts the Future of Local Teens
CHOICES at PLC CIM
Mr. Dunn (Valdosta City Schools) extends his appreciation to volunteer CHOICES presenter John Isom (The U Can Man) on Friday, August 27.

CHOICES was presented to 130 students at Pinevale Learning Center on Aug. 26 and 27. Mr. Ronnie Dunn, Principal (Valdosta City Schools) commented at the conclusion of the two day workshop, "The CHOICES program allows students to hear from local leaders about their community. The requirements, expectations and different areas of interest give the students something to think about. I would highly recommend this program to all middle and high schools." Volunteers from our local businesses spent two hours of their time impacting the lives of students at Pinevale Learning Center. Those business volunteers included: Anne Shenton (Nexxtep Technology Services, Inc.), Charmane Thomas (Paxon Group), John Isom (The U Can Man), Mary Courson (Express Employment Professionals), Monica Boyd (SMITH Northview Hospital), Nikki Forman (City of Valdosta, Public Information Office) and Toscha Brown (Express Employment Professionals). 

To schedule CHOICES at your school or become a trained CHOICES CHAMPION presenter, please contact Keyara Hamilton at 229-247-8100.

Member News