November 4 is Election Day, and it's important to get out and cast your vote on important local and statewide decisions. The ballot will include electing our Governor and State Legislature positions, as well as a critical non-homestead millage renewal for the Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS).

The TCAPS millage has been in place since 1999 and accounts for 36 percent of the TCAPS annual operating budget. Most residents do not pay the millage, and those who do pay it currently (second-home owners and businesses) will not see a change to their current tax rate. The Chamber's Board of Directors endorsed a "Yes" vote on TCAPS' non-homestead millage renewal that goes before district voters on November 4. Learn more about the millage renewal here.

Do you know an individual or couple who've made extraordinary contributions to the area? Nominate them for the Chamber's Distinguished Service Award to be presented at the Annual Celebration on January 23, 2015. Nominations are needed by October 31 and you can click here for a nomination form.

A hearty thanks to all the brave YPs who joined us in the wind and rain for the annual YP Conference. Those who came had a great time despite the weather. Networking, games, fun, and food were all on the agenda. We hope to see everyone back again next year!

The YPs are volunteering again this month at the State Theatre! Join us October 28 from 5:15-7:15 p.m. to serve patrons of the theatre. All volunteers receive a FREE movie voucher and popcorn!  After the volunteer event, head to the U&I Lounge for Team Trivia night! Sign up or e-mail Erika Wiltse with questions. 

Join fellow YPs for networking at the next social event! Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 23 from 5-7 p.m. at Grand Traverse Distillery's new downtown tasting room.  Located at 215 E. Front Street, YPs can enjoy a cocktail or tastes of GT Distillery's products.  Click here for more information.

Business After Hours on October 15

Looking for a chance to connect with fellow business people and learn what's happening around town? Join us for Business After Hours on October 15, when we'll head to the headquarters of primary BAH sponsors Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic at 929 Business Park Drive for an evening of fun, food, prizes and more. It's from 5 - 7 p.m. - see you there!

Business After Hours is presented by:

The Economic Outlook Breakfast and Chamber Expo Are Coming Up!

The Economic Outlook Breakfast on November 11 at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa is officially sold out. There are still a handful of exhibit spaces available for the Chamber Business Expo, also on November 11 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Resort. The Expo attracts more than 130 exhibitors and upwards of 1,200 attendees each year. If your employer hasn't yet reserved space, click here to ensure a spot.

The Economic Outlook Breakfast is sponsored by:

The Chamber Business Expo is sponsored by:

Daniel Baker, a YP who recently moved to the Traverse City area with his fiancée Kelsey, shared his story on our blog last week. Whether you are new to the area or you've lived here your whole life, we want to know what you love about Traverse City and why you've made this place your home.

Sharing your story on the blog is easy, and a great way to reach other young professionals who are considering moving to TC. All you need to do is type a brief summary about yourself-your favorite things in the Traverse City area, why you live here, what you do for a living-and send it in to  Mo Stych with some great photos. It is always fun to feature our YPs!

A YP Lunch and Learn on Healthcare

Almost everyone has questions about the new rules for securing healthcare coverage, and the YP Lunch and Learn on Oct. 29 will provide some answers.

Join Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan to learn about the changes in healthcare and how it affects you. This informative session will help answer questions about the Affordable Care Act and offer key information YPs should know when shopping for healthcare. Join us from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Great Wolf Lodge by clicking here.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

October 15 - Business After Hours at Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic (929 Business Park Drive); 5 - 7 p.m.

October 23 - YP Social Event from 5 - 7 p.m. at the new Grand Traverse Distillery Tasting Room (215 E. Front Street).

October 28 - State Theatre Volunteering; 5:15-7:15 p.m.

October 29 - YP Lunch and Learn from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Great Wolf Lodge.

November 4 - Election Day! Don't forget to vote!

November 11 - Economic Outlook Breakfast and Chamber Business Expo at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa.

The Chamber's Young Professionals Program is supported by: 

YPs In the News!

Received a promotion, new job, board election, community achievement? LET US KNOW!  Please submit a 1-2 sentence description with a photo to mstych@gmail.com(Photo optional, but preferred).  Don't be shy!