YP Brief for December 2014

TCYP December 2014 Brief

Record Number of Young Professionals Elected Into Michigan Legislature

On average, nearly one out of five members of the next State House session in January will be younger than the age of 35. In last month's election, Michigan voters elected 21 lawmakers to the House under the age of 35. Of the 21 young professionals taking office this upcoming term, 12 are Republicans and nine are Democrats.

While term limits (in place since the 1999-2000 term) are contributing to the youth movement, other factors are also at play.

"The voters like having a new generation step up for leadership," explained Rep. Aric Nesbitt (R-Lawton), the chair of the House Republican Campaign Committee (HRCC).

As the State House prepares for a new term at the start of 2015, let's hope these incoming YPs work hard to make important decisions for Michigan. (Article information from MIRS News Service in Lansing).

Public Open House on Division Street Reconstruction

The state Department of Transportation wants to hear from the business community and local residents as it looks to redesign Division Street. Young Professionals living in the Traverse City area have the chance to voice their thoughts on what this major roadway will look like in the future. Come learn more about the project at a second MDOT Open House on Tuesday, December 9 from 4 - 7 p.m. at Munson Medical Center.

Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park Seeking Board Members

The beautiful Botanic Garden on the old State Hospital grounds is seeking young professionals to join the board. If you're interested in learning more about the board and the requirements to serve, please contact grow@TheBotanicGarden.org for more information.

Free popcorn, movies, volunteering and team trivia...what's not to love?

Join us for our monthly YP volunteer event at the State Theatre on Tuesday, December 23 from 5:15-7:15 p.m. All volunteers receive a FREE movie voucher and popcorn! Sign up or e-mail Erika Wiltse with questions (wiltseer@tcaps.net).

Come Volunteer for Business After Hours in 2015

We are always looking for YPs to work the check-in table at the Chamber's Business After Hours (BAH) events. As we enter 2015, there will be plenty of chances to meet and mingle with fellow YPs and Chamber members at BAH. For more information, or to sign up for one of the upcoming BAH events, contact Bridgett Beckwith at bridgett@shortsbrewing.com

Apply for Spring Leadership Grand Traverse

On the heels of a successful fall semester, applications are open for the Spring 2015 Leadership Grand Traverse Class. Join the Chamber's signature leadership development program to learn about the institutions that drive Northern Michigan while honing your leadership skills to advance yourself, your company and community. The deadline for applications is January 25, 2015.

Already an LGT graduate? Join the Leadership Grand Traverse Fellows program to connect with this growing network of LGT alumni and learn more about where your leadership skills are needed.

Celebrate 100 years of the TC Area Chamber at the Annual Celebration

What better way to kick off the Chamber's 100th year than by joining us for the Annual Celebration? The Annual Celebration is a definite can't-miss gathering for the region's business community. Join us on Friday, January 23 for a special evening of fun, honor, and entertainment at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Register now to be guaranteed a seat!

Giving Back at the December YP Monthly Meeting

If you plan on attending our monthly YP meeting this month (December 18 from 8-9 a.m. at the Chamber), please remember to bring a non-perishable food item. We will donate all the collected items to a local community organization helping those who need assistance in our community. Thank you!

Seeking Input for 2015 Young Professional Events

We had a great line-up of Lunch and Learns, social events and volunteer opportunities in 2014, and now we are setting up the calendar for 2015. Please share any ideas you have for Lunch and Learn topics, social event locations, speakers or volunteer events in 2015 with incoming YP Chair Allison Beers

at allison@eventsnorth.com

Calling All Guest Bloggers

Are you new to Traverse City or have you been here for years? Just landed your dream job or are you searching for the next step in your career? Sharing your story on the blog is easy, and a great way to reach other young professionals both in our area and across the world. Simply 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. We love featuring our YPs!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

December 9 - Division Street Reconstruction Open House; 4-7 p.m.

December 23 - State Theatre volunteering; 5:15-7:15 p.m.

December 25 - Christmas Day

January 21 - Business After Hours hosted by Next I.T.; 5 - 7 p.m. (location to be determined)

January 23 - Chamber Annual Celebration

YPs In the News!

Katelyn Stroven was recently promoted to serve as Deputy City Clerk for the City of Traverse City. In this role, she is responsible for a great deal of tasks relating to the daily operations of the city. Some of these tasks include assisting City Clerk Benjamin Marentette when needed, reviewing city contracts, facilitating board appointments, and preparing meeting correspondence. Katelyn is honored to be in this role, and we look forward to her serving our community!

Received a promotion, new job, board election, or 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!